2021 Chrysler Pacifica vs 2020 Toyota RAV4

The 2020 Toyota RAV4, following its 2019 redesign, presented a bolder and more angular appearance, enhancing its rugged aesthetic. This transformation aimed to match its proven durability with a tougher look. The RAV4 Trail trim, known for its off-roading capabilities, featured a torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system, multiple driving modes, and downhill assist control, making it a versatile choice for various terrains. The TRD Off-Road package, introduced in 2020, further elevated its off-road prowess with specialized suspension, all-terrain tires, and distinctive design elements. Inside, the RAV4 TRD Off-Road combined practicality with comfort, offering TRD logos, rubber mats, and quality materials, though some plastic elements appeared less refined.

In contrast, the 2021 Chrysler Pacifica underwent a mid-generation refresh, adopting a more muscular aesthetic with new LED headlights and a hexagonal grille. The rear featured an all-LED taillamp spanning the model's width, maintaining a touch of sophistication. The Pacifica's interior balanced practicality and luxury, especially in the Pinnacle trim, which offered premium materials, quilted Nappa leather seats, and a 10.1-inch touchscreen. The Pacifica's design emphasized family-friendly features, such as Stow 'n Go seating and ample storage, while maintaining a premium feel with options like the Harman Kardon sound system and FamCam interior monitoring.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 was equipped with a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder engine, producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The RAV4 Hybrid variant offered 219 horsepower and impressive fuel efficiency, though it wasn't available with the TRD Off-Road package. The eight-speed automatic transmission generally performed well, though it occasionally hesitated in gear selection. The TRD Off-Road model featured a torque-vectoring AWD system, multi-terrain select settings, and 21.8 centimetres of ground clearance, making it adept at handling challenging terrains. Despite its off-road focus, the RAV4 TRD Off-Road excelled in urban environments, offering a smooth ride and useful features like a 360-degree camera system and JBL sound system. However, its fuel efficiency fell short of official estimates, averaging 10.0 L/100 km.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica offered two powertrain options: a 3.6-litre V6 engine with 287 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, and a hybrid variant with a V6 engine and dual-motor system, delivering 260 horsepower. The hybrid model 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 AWD system, newly available after 16 years, activated on-demand based on driving conditions, enhancing traction without compromising fuel efficiency.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 offered easy ingress and egress, with a sporty driving position and a 4-way power-adjustable driver's seat. The SofTex upholstery, while prone to trapping sweat, was complemented by heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel. Rear passengers enjoyed generous legroom, air conditioning vents, and USB ports. The RAV4 provided ample interior storage, including a dashboard shelf, and offered 1,062 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,974 litres with the rear seats folded. Roof rails and a roof rack further extended its utility.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica prioritized family-friendly features, with spacious front seats and a practical centre console. The minivan included power-sliding doors, three-zone climate control, and Stow 'n Go seating for versatile cargo and passenger arrangements. The Pacifica's second- and third-row seats offered ample legroom, though taller adults might prefer the middle row. The minivan's cargo area was expansive, providing best-in-class total storage of 3,979 litres, making it ideal for family travel.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 featured a user-friendly infotainment system with a 7- or 8-inch touchscreen, offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The system included menu shortcut buttons and separate climate controls, with upgrades like navigation and a JBL sound system available. The TRD Off-Road's voice-recognition technology impressed with its accuracy, and the vehicle offered wireless smartphone charging, a 360-degree camera, and a digital rear-view mirror.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica's Uconnect 5 infotainment system was modern and customizable, with a responsive interface and standard Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The second-row entertainment system offered games and multiple ports for personal devices. The Pacifica's sound system options included a 13-speaker Alpine system and a 19-speaker Harman Kardon system, with the latter providing an exceptional listening experience. The Pinnacle model featured FamCam, an interior monitoring camera with advanced features for family convenience.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic high beams. Blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were also standard. The RAV4 received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, though only models with full LED headlights achieved this distinction. Toyota offered a generous 1-year subscription to Safety Connect services, enhancing safety and peace of mind.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica offered up to 116 safety features, with key systems available from the Touring-L grade. These included automatic pedestrian emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and forward collision warning. Higher trims offered adaptive cruise control, a surround-view camera, and lane departure warning. The Pacifica received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though IIHS ratings were pending at the time of publication.