2021 Chrysler Pacifica vs 2020 Mazda CX-5

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 was a testament to Mazda's commitment to delivering a premium experience beyond mere claims. This model year saw enhancements in standard equipment, cabin aesthetics, and noise reduction, all contributing to a more refined driving experience. The turbocharged engine received a torque boost, and AWD models gained an off-road traction assistance feature. With prices ranging from $27,950 to $41,900, the CX-5 offered various trims, including the luxurious Signature trim, which featured premium Nappa leather and real wood accents. Despite its upscale appeal, the interior's lack of contrast in the Caturra Brown leather detracted slightly from its premium feel.

In contrast, the 2021 Chrysler Pacifica underwent a mid-generation refresh, showcasing a more muscular exterior with new LED headlights and a hexagonal grille. The rear featured an all-LED taillamp, adding to its modern look. Inside, the Pacifica balanced practicality and luxury, especially in the Pinnacle trim, which boasted quilted Nappa leather seats and a 10.1-inch touchscreen. The Pacifica's interior was designed with family life in mind, offering ample storage and comfort. The Pinnacle trim elevated the minivan's luxury with soft-touch materials and classy finishes, making it a standout in its class.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 offered a standard 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The turbocharged version in the GT Turbo and Signature trims delivered up to 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque with premium fuel. Despite its 1,734-kilogram curb weight, the CX-5 Signature accelerated confidently, though its fuel efficiency was slightly lower at 9.8 L/100 km combined. The G-Vectoring Control Plus technology enhanced driving engagement, but the SUV's high centre of gravity led to excessive body motions during spirited driving.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica offered a 3.6-litre V6 engine with 287 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, or a hybrid variant with a combined 260 horsepower. The AWD system, available for the first time in 16 years, activated on-demand to improve traction. The Pacifica Hybrid boasted an all-electric range of over 50 kilometres and a total range of 784 kilometres, with a fuel efficiency of 2.9 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres. The traditional V6 Pacifica achieved 12.4 L/100 km in the city and 10.6 combined, with AWD models slightly less efficient.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5's interior, while stylish and well-equipped, was more cramped compared to competitors like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. The upscale cabin featured heated front seats, power-adjustable seats in the GS trim, and ventilated front seats in the GT trim. The Signature trim added luxury with Nappa leather and genuine wood trim. Cargo space was limited, with 875 litres behind the rear seat and 1,687 litres with the seats folded.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica excelled in family-friendly design, offering spacious front seats and ample storage, including under-console storage for second-row passengers. Standard features included power-sliding doors, three-zone climate control, and Stow 'n Go seating. The Pacifica's cargo area was generous, with best-in-class total storage of 3,979 litres, making it ideal for family travel.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 featured the Mazda Connect infotainment system, which, while upscale, required acclimation. The system included a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims added SiriusXM, a Bose sound system, and a surround-view camera. However, the system's controls were not user-friendly, and voice recognition was unreliable.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica's Uconnect 5 system was modern and customizable, with a clean design and responsive interface. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Pinnacle model offered FamCam, an interior monitoring camera, and a 19-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. The second-row entertainment system remained an option, with additional games for 2021.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, with standard ADAS features like automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The CX-5 earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with high marks in individual tests.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica offered up to 116 safety features, with most available at the Touring-L grade. These included pedestrian emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision warning. The Pacifica received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though the IIHS had not yet rated it.