2022 Subaru Forester 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 updated with an all-LED taillamp spanning the width of the model, complete 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 and suede centre row pillows added to the upscale feel. The Pacifica's doors closed with a reassuring thud, and sound deadening technology ensured a quiet ride.

The 2022 Subaru Forester, particularly in the Wilderness trim, emphasized utility and practicality over aesthetics. Despite its homely exterior, the Forester's driving dynamics were pleasing, though it lacked in acceleration. The Wilderness model featured a suspension lift, higher ride height, and protective cladding, giving it a rugged appearance. Inside, the Forester focused on function, with a combination of hard plastic and soft surfaces that exuded quality, albeit somewhat dated. The 8-inch Starlink infotainment system was intuitive, though the three display screens could be cumbersome.

The Forester's interior was designed for ease of use, with tall seating hip points for easy entry and exit. The StarTex upholstery was water-resistant, and the Wilderness trim included all-weather floor mats and a rubber cargo mat. The upgraded roof rails accommodated a dynamic load of 100 kilograms and a static load of 362 kilograms, suitable for a roof tent. The Forester offered ample comfort and storage, with a squared-off cargo area and new cargo hooks. The rear seats folded down to provide 2,101 litres of cargo space, making it one of the roomiest compact SUVs.

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 Subaru Forester continued with its 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. All models featured a CVT and AWD, with the Wilderness trim offering a 25% increase in initial torque supply and a doubled towing capacity of 1,360 kilograms. The Forester's fuel consumption was 9.0 L/100 km combined, and the CVT provided a smooth driving experience. The Wilderness trim included a re-tuned suspension for improved ride and handling, with longer springs and shocks for increased ground clearance.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica was designed with family life in mind, offering spacious front seats and ample storage, including an under-stack area and under-console storage for second-row passengers. Standard features included rear power-sliding doors, three-zone climate control, and Stow 'n Go seats. The Pacifica's cargo area provided best-in-class total storage of 3,979 litres.

The 2022 Subaru Forester prioritized functionality, with easy entry and exit, water-resistant StarTex upholstery, and all-weather floor mats. The upgraded roof rails supported a roof tent, and the Forester offered high comfort levels and decent storage space. The cargo area measured 818 litres without the sunroof and 762 litres with it, expanding to 2,101 litres with the rear seats folded down.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Pinnacle model included FamCam, an interior monitoring camera with a rear-facing child seat view. The Pacifica offered a six-speaker sound system, with upgrades to a 13-speaker Alpine system or a 19-speaker Harman Kardon option.

The 2022 Subaru Forester included a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims featured an 8-inch screen with available navigation and a Harman Kardon audio system. The Wilderness trim included a 180-degree forward-view camera for off-roading.

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 adaptive cruise control. The Pacifica received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Subaru Forester debuted the EyeSight 4.0 safety system, with a wider field of vision and new Automatic Emergency Steering. Standard features included automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control. The Forester received a five-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA and was expected to retain its "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS.