2021 Chrysler Pacifica vs 2022 Honda Odyssey

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 touch of sophistication as the eye moved towards the sides and rear. The rear was marked by an all-LED taillamp running the width of the vehicle, with 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 distinguished itself from competitors like the Toyota Sienna and Kia Carnival by balancing practicality with premium touches, especially in the Pinnacle trim. The interior featured a flat dashboard with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, Piano Black plastic trim, wood accents, and real metal surrounds. Quilted Nappa leather seats, suede centre row pillows, and Beber floor mats added to the upscale feel. The Pacifica's doors closed with a solid thud, and sound deadening technology ensured a quiet ride.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey, while not as stylish as the Kia Carnival, still offered a sense of style with its kinked sliding doors and hockey-stick character lines. The Touring trim featured dark grey 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels. The interior was designed with an open-concept layout, providing ample storage and a low console between the front seats. The centre stack, though cluttered, was intuitive, with commonly used functions placed near the infotainment display. The Odyssey's expansive windshield and small front quarter windows enhanced visibility, creating a fishbowl sensation.

The Odyssey's interior was equipped with quality leather upholstery, supportive front seats, and a tri-zone climate control system. The Magic Slide second-row seats allowed for flexible configurations, enhancing safety and convenience. The third-row seat was comfortable for adults, with good leg support and foot room. The Odyssey offered 929 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,452 litres with the third row folded, and 3,984 litres with the second row removed.

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 with a dual-motor electrically variable transmission, achieving 260 horsepower from the engine and 198 horsepower from its motors. The hybrid model had an all-electric range of over 50 kilometres and a total range of 784 kilometres. The traditional V6 Pacifica had fuel consumption rates of 12.4 L/100 km in the city, 8.4 on the highway, and 10.6 combined, with AWD models slightly less efficient.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Odyssey was front-wheel drive only, with a fuel consumption estimate of 10.6 L/100 km in combined driving. While lacking AWD and hybrid options, the Odyssey offered a more engaging driving experience. However, repeated use of the brakes on downhill grades led to pedal vibration and an audible grumble, indicating a need for more heat-resistant brakes.

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. Standard features included rear power-sliding doors, three-zone climate control, and Stow ’n Go seating. The Pacifica's cargo area provided best-in-class total storage of 3,979 litres, with under-console storage for second-row passengers.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey featured wide-opening doors and a low ride height for easy entry. The Touring trim included quality leather, supportive front seats, and a tri-zone climate control system. The Magic Slide second-row seats allowed for flexible configurations, and the third-row seat was comfortable for adults. The Odyssey offered 929 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,452 litres with the third row folded, and 3,984 litres with the second row removed.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica's Uconnect 5 infotainment system was modern and customizable, with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto as standard. The Pinnacle model featured FamCam, an interior monitoring camera with a rear-facing child seat view. The Pacifica offered a six-speaker sound system, with upgrades available to a 19-speaker Harman Kardon system.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey's infotainment system, while functional, was outclassed by rivals. The Touring trim included an 8-inch touchscreen, satellite radio, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. CabinWatch and CabinTalk technology allowed for rear-seat monitoring and communication. The rear entertainment system featured a single 10.2-inch display, but was considered outdated.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica offered up to 116 safety features, with most available at 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.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey came standard with Honda Sensing, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. The Odyssey earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. However, Honda Sensing lacked refinement, with some features responding too sharply to changing driving situations.