2021 Chrysler Pacifica vs 2021 Mazda CX-30

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica underwent a significant mid-generation refresh, resulting in a more muscular aesthetic with its new hexagonal grille and standard LED headlights. This design shift moved away from the elegance of previous models, yet retained a touch of sophistication as the eye moved along the vehicle's sides and rear. The all-LED taillamp at the back, spanning the width of the model, added a modern touch, complemented by the Chrysler wing badge. The Pacifica offered six new wheel designs and the S Appearance Package, which included darkened features and black accents, enhancing its bold look.

Inside, the Pacifica distinguished itself from competitors like the Toyota Sienna and Kia Carnival by balancing practicality with premium touches. The Pinnacle trim, in particular, catered to luxury customers with features like a 10.1-inch touchscreen, Piano Black plastic trim, wood accents, and quilted Nappa leather seats. The minivan's sound-deadening technology, including fresh windows and insulation, ensured a quiet ride, while the well-weighted doors added to its premium feel.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo introduced a striking design with shiny black 18-inch wheels, grille, and side mirror housings, along with matte black body cladding. This gave the vehicle a unique, agile appearance, setting it apart from the Mazda3 hatchback on which it was based. The CX-30's elevated stance and distinctive styling made it stand out, while the cabin mirrored the Mazda3's quality materials and upscale vibe. The interior featured chrome accents, a frameless rearview mirror, and standard leather seats in the GT trim, enhancing its premium appeal.

Despite its compact size, the CX-30 offered a comfortable driving experience with quality materials and a driver-focused layout. However, the rear seat space was limited, and the location of the wireless smartphone charger in the centre console storage bin posed a usability challenge. The cargo space was competitive, with 572 litres available, expanding to 1,280 litres with the seats folded down.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica offered two powertrain options: a traditional 3.6-litre V6 engine with 287 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, and a hybrid version with a V6 engine paired with a dual-motor electrically variable transmission, achieving 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 had a fuel consumption of 12.4 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 8.4 on the highway, with AWD models seeing slightly higher figures.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo featured a turbocharged Skyactiv 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing between 227 and 250 horsepower depending on the fuel octane. Torque ranged from 310 to 320 pound-feet, providing effortless acceleration. The CX-30 Turbo's fuel efficiency was rated at 9.3 litres per 100 kilometres combined, with a driving range of approximately 500 kilometres. The i-Activ AWD system and G-Vectoring Control Plus technology enhanced handling, while the Off-Road mode provided additional capability in challenging conditions.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica was designed with family life in mind, offering spacious front seats and a practical cabin layout. Features like rear power-sliding doors, three-zone climate control, and Stow 'n Go seating made it versatile for family use. The Pacifica's cargo space was impressive, with a best-in-class total storage of 3,979 litres, accommodating various needs.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo provided a comfortable driving experience with an eight-way adjustable driver's seat and a driver-focused interior. However, rear seat space was limited, and the location of the wireless smartphone charger in the centre console storage bin posed a usability challenge. The cargo space was competitive, with 572 litres available, expanding to 1,280 litres with the seats folded down.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, offering a modern and customizable experience with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Pinnacle model included FamCam, an interior monitoring camera with unique features like a rear-facing child seat view. The sound system options ranged from a standard six-speaker setup to a premium 20-speaker Harman Kardon system.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo's infotainment system was controlled via physical controls and voice commands, with an 8.8-inch display. Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto provided smartphone integration, while the GT trim added a 12-speaker Bose audio system and an Active Driving Display. The system's operation required acclimation, and the lack of a touchscreen was a notable omission.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica offered up to 116 safety features, including automatic pedestrian emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. It received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though the IIHS had not yet rated it.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover resistance rating. It included a comprehensive suite of safety features, with the GT trim adding adaptive front lighting and rear automatic emergency braking.