2021 Chrysler Pacifica vs 2021 Acura RDX

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica underwent a significant exterior refresh, featuring new standard LED headlights and a hexagonal grille that contributed to a more muscular aesthetic. This design shift moved away from the elegance of previous models, yet retained a sense of sophistication as the eye moved along the vehicle's sides and rear. The rear was updated with an all-LED taillamp spanning the width of the model, complemented by the Chrysler wing badge at its centre. The Pacifica offered six new wheel designs and the S Appearance Package, which included darkened features and black accents. Inside, the Pacifica balanced practicality and luxury, especially in the Pinnacle trim, which boasted premium materials like quilted Nappa leather seats and a 10.1-inch touchscreen. The minivan's sound deadening technology was enhanced, providing a quieter ride.

The 2021 Acura RDX, particularly in the A-Spec trim, presented a sporty yet refined appearance without excessive blacked-out trim or off-roading features. The RDX was designed for daily driving and road trips, not rugged terrain. The A-Spec trim sat in the middle of the RDX's hierarchy, offering a sporty interior with front sport seats, a sport steering wheel, and red ambient lighting. The interior was crafted with quality materials, though the gauge cluster's red markings on a brushed silver background were difficult to read. The RDX's exterior and interior design delivered a sporty look and feel, with the A-Spec trim enhancing the SUV's overall appeal.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica offered two powertrain options: a 3.6-litre V6 engine with 287 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, and a V6 hybrid engine paired with a dual-motor electrically variable transmission, achieving 260 horsepower from the engine and 198 horsepower from its motors. The Pacifica's AWD system, available for the first time in 16 years, activated on-demand based on driving conditions, enhancing traction and stability. The Pacifica Hybrid had an all-electric range of over 50 kilometres and a total range of 784 kilometres, with fuel efficiency of 2.9 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres. The traditional V6 Pacifica achieved 12.4 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 8.4 on the highway, with AWD models seeing slightly reduced efficiency.

The 2021 Acura RDX featured a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine producing 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. A 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and the SH-AWD system enhanced the RDX's handling, delivering up to 70% of engine output to the rear wheels. The Integrated Dynamics System allowed drivers to choose between Snow, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ modes, adjusting powertrain response and steering effort. The A-Spec trim included exclusive 20-inch alloy wheels with performance all-season tires, though adaptive dampers were not available. The RDX's handling was precise, with predictable characteristics and fade-resistant brakes, making it enjoyable to drive.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica was designed with family life in mind, offering spacious front seats and a padded centre console lid for a sense of togetherness. The minivan featured rear power-sliding doors, three-zone climate control, and Stow 'n Go seating for flexible cargo space. The Pacifica's cargo area provided best-in-class total storage of 3,979 litres, accommodating family travel needs with ease.

The 2021 Acura RDX, though a compact SUV, offered remarkable passenger and cargo space. The front seats were comfortable, with 12-way power adjustment and heating as standard. However, rear-seat comfort was compromised by a low and flat cushion, resulting in a lack of leg support. The RDX's cargo volume was competitive, with 835 litres behind the rear seat and a maximum of 2,260 litres when the front seats were moved forward. The trunk included a deep storage well and three separate compartments for organization.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, offering a modern and customizable experience with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The second row's in-seat entertainment system remained an option, with additional games available. The Pinnacle model included FamCam, an interior monitoring camera with unique features like a rear-facing child seat view. The Harman Kardon sound system provided a high-quality listening experience.

The 2021 Acura RDX introduced the True Touchpad Interface infotainment system, which used a touch-sensing pad on the centre console. While the system mirrored the screen for intuitive control, it required a learning curve and could be distracting. The A-Spec trim included a 16-speaker Acura/ELS Studio 3D premium audio system, delivering excellent sound quality. The RDX also offered smartphone projection and voice assistant technology for convenience.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica came with up to 116 standard or available safety features, including automatic pedestrian emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and forward collision warning. The Pinnacle grade offered additional features like adaptive cruise control and a surround-view camera. The Pacifica received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2021 Acura RDX included adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking as standard, but blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert were only available on higher trims. The RDX earned a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it received four-star ratings for frontal-impact and rollover resistance.