2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2021 Chrysler Pacifica

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 along the vehicle's sides and rear. The rear was marked by an all-LED taillamp spanning the width of the model, 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 stood out from competitors like the Toyota Sienna and Kia Carnival by offering a premium feel, especially in the Pinnacle trim, which featured quilted Nappa leather seats, suede centre row pillows, and Beber floor mats. The interior was designed with comfort and luxury in mind, with a flat dashboard anchored by a 10.1-inch touchscreen, Piano Black plastic trim, wood accents, and real metal surrounds. The Pacifica also boasted sound-deadening technology, ensuring a quiet ride.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS, in its base GLS 450 form, presented a more subtle and less flashy look compared to its competitors. The AMG GLS 63 performance model and the Maybach version offered more visual drama with features like flared wheel arches, chrome accents, and large wheels. Inside, the GLS offered a luxurious feel with leather upholstery, a panoramic roof, and ambient lighting. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen were housed under one piece of glass, providing a sleek look. The GLS 450's interior was high quality, though perhaps too subdued for some tastes. The vehicle's design allowed for a comfortable and luxurious experience, with intricate speaker grilles and rectangular air vents adding to the rugged SUV feel.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica was powered by a 3.6-litre V6 engine paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, delivering 287 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. Alternatively, a V6 hybrid engine with a dual-motor electrically variable transmission and a 16-kilowatt-hour battery produced 260 horsepower from the engine and 198 horsepower from its motors. In Canada, all-wheel drive (AWD) was an option for internal combustion engine models, while hybrid models were front-wheel drive only. The AWD system activated on-demand based on various conditions, enhancing fuel efficiency by deactivating when not needed. The Pacifica Hybrid offered 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 rates of 12.4 litres per 100 kilometres in the city, 8.4 on the highway, and 10.6 combined, with AWD models seeing slightly higher rates.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 featured a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine with a nine-speed automatic transmission, assisted by the EQ Boost mild-hybrid system. The gasoline engine produced 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, with an electric motor adding 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque in short bursts. The GLS 450's engine provided ample power, and the electric assist was well-integrated. The GLS 450's air suspension offered a smooth ride, though it exhibited poor body control over bumps and in corners. The GLS 450 had a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms, which was competitive but slightly lower than some rivals.

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 space was ample, with an under-stack area for personal items. Standard features included rear power-sliding doors, three-zone climate control, power windows, a 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat, and Stow 'n Go seating. The Pacifica's second- and third-row seats provided plenty of legroom, and the Stow 'n Go feature allowed for easy loading. The Pacifica boasted best-in-class total storage of 3,979 litres, making it ideal for family travel.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with a seven-seat configuration, with an optional six-seat version offering individual captain's chairs. The second-row seats could slide forward and fold for third-row access, with the bench seat sliding fore and aft to increase legroom. The GLS offered 355 litres of cargo space with all seats in place, expanding to 2,400 litres with the second and third rows folded. The GLS's air suspension made loading and unloading cargo easier, though some ergonomic issues were noted, such as the touchscreen being difficult to reach.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, offering a modern and customizable experience. The system was graphically appealing and responsive, with standard Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The second row's in-seat entertainment system was optional, with additional games available. The Pacifica offered a six-speaker sound system, with upgrades to a 13-speaker Alpine system or a 19-speaker Harman Kardon option. The Pinnacle model included FamCam, an interior monitoring camera with unique features.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring a 12.3-inch touchscreen, digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and navigation. The system offered multiple control options, with voice recognition being the most effective. The GLS's graphics were visually appealing, and the augmented-reality navigation feature was standard. However, the navigation system occasionally suggested inefficient routes, affecting confidence in its reliability.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica offered up to 116 standard or available safety features, including automatic pedestrian emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and forward collision warning. Adaptive cruise control, rain-sensing wipers, and other features were available in packages or standard on higher trims. The Pacifica received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS included standard safety features such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keep assist. Additional features were available as options, including adaptive cruise control and advanced driver-assistance features. Crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were not available at the time of publication.