2022 Mitsubishi Outlander 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 sense of sophistication as the eye moved along the vehicle's sides and rear. The rear was updated with 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 balancing practicality with premium touches, especially in the Pinnacle trim. This top-tier model featured a flat dashboard with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, Piano Black plastic trim, wood accents, and quilted Nappa leather seats, creating a luxurious feel. The Pacifica's sound deadening technology was also enhanced, providing a quieter ride.

The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander showcased a bold design with its "Dynamic Shield" grille and lighting concept, offering a balanced and appealing look from front to rear. Available in various trims, the Outlander featured 18-inch alloy wheels on lower grades and 20-inch wheels on higher trims. The GT Premium trim boasted premium semi-aniline leather, a head-up display, and a premium sound system, enhancing the interior ambiance. The design adhered to minimalism, with black interiors, aluminum accents, and gloss black trim. However, some interior plastics reminded drivers of the Outlander's position in the SUV hierarchy. Despite this, Mitsubishi avoided using obviously inexpensive materials, maintaining a sense of quality throughout the vehicle.

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 Pacifica Hybrid had an all-electric range of over 50 kilometres and a total range of 784 kilometres, with a fuel efficiency of 2.9 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres. The traditional V6 Pacifica achieved 12.4 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 8.4 on the highway, with AWD models seeing slightly reduced efficiency. The AWD system was a new addition, automatically activating when needed and deactivating to improve fuel efficiency.

The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander was equipped with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 181 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque, paired with a CVT and Mitsubishi’s Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) AWD system. The Outlander offered various driving modes, including Eco, Normal, Tarmac, Gravel, Snow, and Mud, but lacked the power to inspire confidence in highway acceleration or passing. The steering felt vague and disconnected, and the suspension was firm, leading to a brittle ride on imperfect roads. The Outlander returned 9.4 litres per 100 kilometres, slightly higher than its official rating of 8.9 L/100 km combined for AWD models.

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 was ample, with under-stack and under-console storage for second-row passengers. Standard features included rear power-sliding doors, three-zone climate control, and Stow ’n Go seating for flexible cargo space. The Pacifica boasted best-in-class total storage of 3,979 litres, making it ideal for family travel.

The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander excelled in form and function, with roomy and comfortable front seats, a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, and heated front seats. The interior design was clean and intuitive, though the centre console lacked storage. The rear seat offered generous space and comfort, with the ability to slide for more cargo room. A third-row seat was included but was cramped for adults. The Outlander provided 331 litres of cargo space with the third row in use, expanding to 948 litres with it folded, and a maximum of 2,256 litres without the panoramic sunroof.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, offering a modern and customizable experience with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Optional second-row entertainment included games and various ports for personal devices. The Pinnacle model included FamCam, an interior monitoring camera with unique features. Sound system options ranged from a standard six-speaker system to a 19-speaker Harman Kardon system.

The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander stood out with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display, a large HUD on the GT Premium, and a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth and wireless Apple CarPlay. Wireless smartphone charging was standard on higher trims, and the GT Premium featured a 10-speaker Bose audio system. Voice-recognition technology needed improvement, particularly at higher speeds.

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.

The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander featured a driver-assist system similar to Nissan’s ProPilot Assist, offering smooth and accurate performance. Safety features included forward collision mitigation, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot warning. The Outlander received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.