2021 Chrysler Pacifica vs 2022 Buick Encore GX

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica underwent a significant exterior refresh, featuring new standard LED headlights flanking a hexagonal grille, which contributed to a more muscular aesthetic compared to its previous elegance. The rear of the Pacifica showcased an all-LED taillamp spanning the width of the vehicle, with the Chrysler wing badge at its center. The S Appearance Package added darkened features and black accents, enhancing its bold look. Inside, the Pacifica offered a premium feel, especially in the Pinnacle trim, with quilted leather seats, suede pillows, and a 10.1-inch touchscreen. The minivan's design balanced practicality with luxury, providing a well-weighted feel and effective sound deadening for a quiet ride.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX shared a strong family resemblance with the Encore, featuring a trapezoidal "waterfall" grille and similar headlight styling. The Encore GX's slightly longer wheelbase gave it a less stubby appearance. The optional ST package added sporty elements like custom grille and sport bumpers. Inside, the Encore GX offered a comfortable cabin with soft-touch materials and heated Whisper Beige leather seats. The controls were straightforward, though the rotary toggles were cumbersome. Despite its compact size, the Encore GX provided adequate front-seat space, though rear-seat knee room was tight. Cargo space was practical, with a two-level cargo floor and a hands-free power liftgate for convenience.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica offered two powertrain options: a 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 287 horsepower and a hybrid version with a dual-motor electrically variable transmission, achieving 260 horsepower. The V6 engine was standard on the Touring and Touring L trims, with the hybrid powertrain and all-wheel drive (AWD) as options. The AWD system, reintroduced after 16 years, activated on-demand based on driving conditions, enhancing fuel efficiency by deactivating when not needed. The Pacifica Hybrid boasted an all-electric range of over 30 miles and a total range exceeding 500 miles, delivering 82 MPGe and 30 mpg combined. The traditional V6 achieved 19 mpg city and 28 mpg highway, with AWD models slightly less efficient.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX offered two turbocharged three-cylinder engines: a 1.2-liter producing 137 horsepower and a 1.3-liter generating 155 horsepower. The 1.2-liter engine was standard on the Preferred and Select trims, while the 1.3-liter was standard on the Essence trim. Front-wheel drive (FWD) was standard, with AWD available on all trims. FWD models used a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), while AWD models had a nine-speed automatic. The 1.3-liter turbo engine and CVT provided adequate power, though the ride was noisier than expected. The Encore GX's driving dynamics were uninspiring, with noise and harshness levels more intrusive than anticipated.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica was designed with family life in mind, offering spacious seating and practical storage solutions. The front seats provided ample space, with a padded center console lid replacing armrests. Power-sliding rear doors, three-zone climate control, and Stow 'n Go seating were standard, enhancing convenience. The second-row under-console storage and Stow 'n Go third-row seats added versatility. The Pacifica's cargo area was spacious, with best-in-class total storage of 227.6 liters, making it ideal for family travel.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX, despite its compact size, offered a comfortable and easy-to-live-with interior. Ingress and egress were effortless, with controls clearly marked and legible. Front-seat headroom and legroom were adequate, though rear-seat knee room was tight. Cargo space measured 23.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 50.2 cubic feet with them folded. The two-level cargo floor and hands-free power liftgate added convenience, accommodating items up to eight feet in length.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica featured advanced technology, including hands-free sliding doors and the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with optional in-seat entertainment for the second row. The Pinnacle model included FamCam, an interior monitoring camera with unique features. The sound system options ranged from a six-speaker setup to a 20-speaker Harman Kardon system, providing a high-quality listening experience.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX offered an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth audio streaming, and a WiFi hotspot. A navigation system and Amazon Alexa capability were available on higher trims. The Advanced Technology package added features like HD surround vision and a head-up display. The Convenience package included wireless phone charging and automatic parking assist. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with intuitive app layout and efficient voice recognition.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica came standard with 97 safety features, increasing to 100 in the Pinnacle trim. Key safety technologies included forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Pacifica received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though the IIHS had not yet rated it.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX included standard driver assistance features, with additional options available. Teen Driver technology and a tire-fill alert system were also included. The Encore GX earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and "Good" ratings from the IIHS in crash tests. However, headlight ratings varied, with the top Essence trim receiving an "Acceptable" rating and lower trims a "Marginal" rating.