2022 Kia Sportage vs 2021 Chrysler Pacifica

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica underwent a significant mid-generation refresh, showcasing a revised exterior that included new standard LED headlights flanking a hexagonal grille. This update gave the Pacifica a more muscular appearance, moving away from the elegance of previous models. The sophistication of the original design was still evident, particularly as one moved from the front to the sides and rear, where a new all-LED taillamp spanned the width of the vehicle, featuring the Chrysler wing badge at its centre. The Pacifica offered six new wheel designs and the S Appearance Package, which added darkened features and black accents to the exterior.

Inside, the Pacifica distinguished itself from competitors like the Toyota Sienna and Kia Carnival by balancing practicality with premium touches. The Pacifica Pinnacle trim, in particular, catered to luxury customers with features like a flat dashboard anchored by a 10.1-inch touchscreen, Piano Black plastic trim with wood accents, and quilted Nappa leather seats. The minivan's doors closed with a reassuring thud, and sound deadening technology ensured a quiet ride. The Pacifica's design was both practical and luxurious, making it a standout in its class.

The 2022 Kia Sportage, on the other hand, featured a design that was both stylish and functional, despite some criticism of its tiger-nose grille. The SUV's design elements, such as the four-dot running light signature and Volkswagen-style symmetry, contributed to its overall appeal. The Sportage SX trim boasted 19-inch alloy wheels, giving it a planted stance. Inside, the Sportage adopted Germanic design cues, with a black dashboard featuring polished metallic accents and easy-to-use buttons and knobs for controlling various functions. The transmission shifter's solid operation added to the sense of quality.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica offered two powertrain options: a traditional 3.6-litre V6 engine producing 287 horsepower and 262 lb-ft 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 Hybrid had an all-electric range of over 50 kilometres and a total range of 784 kilometres, with fuel consumption of 2.9 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres. The traditional V6 Pacifica had fuel consumption figures of 12.4 L/100 km in the city, 8.4 on the highway, and 10.6 combined, with AWD models seeing slightly higher numbers.

The 2022 Kia Sportage offered a 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine with 181 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque, while the Sportage SX featured a more powerful engine with 237 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The Sportage's Dynamax all-wheel-drive system was standard on all grades except the entry-level LX FWD. The Sportage SX provided quick acceleration, with maximum torque available from 1,450 to 3,500 rpm. The SUV's suspension offered a smooth ride, though there was some body roll and lateral rocking over uneven pavement.

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 both the second and third rows. The Pacifica's cargo area provided best-in-class total storage of 3,979 litres, making it ideal for family travel.

The 2022 Kia Sportage, while smaller, offered a roomy passenger compartment with comfortable seating. The SX trim featured perforated leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. Rear passengers enjoyed generous legroom, air conditioning vents, and a USB charging port. The Sportage's cargo space was limited compared to competitors, with 1,703 litres of cargo space when the second-row seats were folded down. The SUV also featured Kia's smart liftgate technology for hands-free access.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica's Uconnect 5 infotainment system was modern and customizable, featuring Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The second row's in-seat entertainment system offered a variety of games and ports for personal entertainment. The Pinnacle model included FamCam, an interior monitoring camera with unique features like a rear-facing child seat view.

The 2022 Kia Sportage came with a standard 8-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The SX trim added UVO Intelligence connected services, satellite radio, and a Harman Kardon audio system. While the infotainment system was easy to use, it lacked some advanced features like a WiFi hotspot and wireless smartphone mirroring.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica offered up to 116 standard or available safety features, including automatic pedestrian emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The minivan received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Kia Sportage's EX and SX grades included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. The SX trim also featured adaptive cruise control. The Sportage received favourable crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, with the SX earning an Acceptable headlight rating.