2022 Mazda CX-30 vs 2021 Chrysler Pacifica

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 from the front to the sides and rear. The rear featured a new all-LED taillamp spanning 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, enhancing its overall appeal.

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 quilted Nappa leather seats and a 10.1-inch touchscreen. The interior was designed for comfort and functionality, with sound-deadening technology ensuring a quiet ride. The Pacifica's doors closed with a reassuring thud, and the vehicle's overall build quality did not compromise on efficiency.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30, on the other hand, was styled as a downsized version of the CX-5, with an upright grille and smooth fenders. It shared its platform with the Mazda3, resembling a raised-up version of the hatchback. The CX-30's raked windshield acted like a greenhouse on sunny days, and its slight curve could distort the view for taller drivers. The cabin was comfortable and quiet, with a well-designed instrument cluster and infotainment screen. However, the infotainment system's functionality was compromised by its form, with a steep learning curve for users.

In Canada, the CX-30 offered three trim levels: GX, GS, and GT. The GX came with features like 16-inch alloy wheels and a standard AWD drivetrain, while the GS added 18-inch wheels and dual-zone climate control. The GT trim included a power liftgate, leather upholstery, and an optional turbocharged engine. The CX-30's interior design was elegant, but the infotainment system's usability was a drawback, especially when navigating Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

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. 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 and 8.4 on the highway, while the AWD version had slightly higher rates. The AWD system was a new addition, automatically activating when needed and deactivating for improved fuel efficiency.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 offered a base 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 155 horsepower, while the GS and GT trims had a 2.5-litre engine with 186 horsepower. The test model featured a 2.5-litre turbocharged engine with 227 horsepower on 87 octane fuel and 250 horsepower on 93 octane. The CX-30's six-speed automatic transmission and Sport mode provided lively performance, with quick and precise steering. However, the sporty ride resulted in a rough experience on bumpy roads, though it handled dirt and gravel well.

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. Storage options included an under-stack area and under-console storage for second-row passengers. The Pacifica featured power-sliding doors, three-zone climate control, and Stow 'n Go seats for flexible cargo space. The minivan offered best-in-class total storage of 3,979 litres, making it ideal for family travel.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 provided up to 1,280 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 572 litres with the seats in use. The GT trim included a power rear liftgate, and the front seats had a sliding centre console cover. However, the console cover design could be problematic when the rear seats were folded. The rear seats offered solid headroom for short-to-medium trips, but longer drives might be uncomfortable for taller passengers.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, known for its modern design and responsiveness. It included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, with optional in-seat entertainment for the second row. The Pinnacle model offered 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 20-speaker Harman Kardon system in the Pinnacle Hybrid.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30's infotainment system was controlled by a rotary dial and toggle buttons, lacking touch functionality. This design choice, inspired by older luxury systems, made navigation cumbersome, especially with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While the system was elegant, its usability was a significant drawback, requiring users to adapt to its quirks.

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

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 had available driver-assistance features, with rain-sensing wipers and blind-spot monitoring as standard. Higher trims offered adaptive headlights, a 360-degree parking camera, and a head-up display. The CX-30 earned five stars from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with top marks in crash tests and driver-assistance technology.