2021 Subaru Outback vs 2021 Chrysler Pacifica

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica underwent a significant mid-generation refresh, enhancing its exterior with a more muscular aesthetic. The new hexagonal grille and standard LED headlights contributed to a streamlined front end, while the all-LED taillamp at the rear added a modern touch. Despite these changes, the Pacifica retained elements of its original sophistication, particularly noticeable along its sides and rear. The introduction of six new wheel designs and the S Appearance Package, featuring darkened and black accents, further emphasized its bold look. Inside, the Pacifica distinguished itself from competitors like the Toyota Sienna and Kia Carnival by offering a premium feel, especially in the Pinnacle trim. This top-tier model boasted luxurious features such as quilted Nappa leather seats, a 10.1-inch touchscreen, and advanced sound deadening technology, ensuring a quiet and comfortable ride.

In contrast, the 2021 Subaru Outback maintained a familiar and comfortable design, reminiscent of older Subaru models. While the base trim featured a less appealing dual-screen setup, higher trims offered a more modern 11.6-inch portrait display. The interior quality improved significantly from pre-2015 models, with substantial materials and comfortable seating. The Outback's exterior remained smooth and plain, with high gray cladding for protection. Notable updates for 2021 included adaptive LED headlights and a new brown paint option. Despite its understated appearance, the Outback's lifted wagon design made it a versatile alternative to typical crossovers and SUVs, capable of handling various terrains with ease.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica offered two powertrain options: a traditional 3.6-litre V6 engine producing 287 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, and a hybrid variant combining a V6 engine 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. The Pacifica's AWD system, available for the first time in 16 years, activated on-demand based on driving conditions, enhancing traction and stability. Fuel efficiency varied, with the traditional V6 achieving 12.4 L/100 km in the city and 8.4 on the highway, while the hybrid used 2.9 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres.

The 2021 Subaru Outback featured a 2.5-litre boxer flat-four engine with 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque, paired with a CVT. This setup struggled with the Outback's weight, resulting in sluggish performance. However, the XT trims offered a turbocharged 2.4-litre flat-four engine, delivering 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque, significantly improving performance. The XT's fuel efficiency was slightly lower than the base engine, with estimates of 10.1 L/100 km city and 7.9 highway. The Outback's AWD system was proactive, always driving all four wheels and offering excellent off-road capability with features like X-Mode for challenging conditions.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica was designed with family life in mind, offering spacious front seats and a practical cabin layout. The minivan featured power-sliding doors, three-zone climate control, and Stow 'n Go seating for versatile cargo and passenger arrangements. The Pacifica's cargo area provided best-in-class total storage of 3,979 litres, making it ideal for family travel. Additional storage options, such as under-console storage for second-row passengers, added convenience.

The 2021 Subaru Outback offered impressive ground clearance and a spacious interior, with 2,144 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded. The cabin provided ample headroom and legroom, with comfortable seating and excellent outward visibility. Storage solutions included large map pockets, bottle holders, and a handy front centre console. While some features like push-button start and rear console climate vents were not standard, the Outback's integrated roof rails and crossbars were a standout feature, offering easy installation for roof racks.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, known for its modern design and responsiveness. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, with optional in-seat entertainment for the second row. The Pinnacle model offered advanced features like FamCam, an interior monitoring camera with unique functionalities. Audio options ranged from a standard six-speaker system to a premium 19-speaker Harman Kardon setup.

The 2021 Subaru Outback's infotainment system appeared dated, with graphics reminiscent of older technology. However, it offered standard features like SiriusXM, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Subaru EyeSight, standard on all trims, provided adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and forward automatic emergency braking. The system's reliance on cameras rather than radar limited its functionality in certain conditions.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica boasted up to 116 safety features, with many available from the Touring-L grade. These included automatic 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.

The 2021 Subaru Outback featured a stronger chassis and standard airbags, with additional safety features available on higher trims. It earned a 2020 IIHS "Top Safety Pick+" and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it received four stars for the front passenger in a frontal crash and rollover test.