2021 Chrysler Pacifica vs 2022 Toyota Sequoia

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica underwent a significant mid-generation refresh, resulting in a more muscular exterior design. The new hexagonal grille and standard LED headlights contributed to a streamlined front end, moving away from the elegance of previous models. Despite these changes, the Pacifica retained some of its original sophistication, particularly noticeable along its 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. Inside, the Pacifica balanced practicality and luxury, especially in the Pinnacle trim, which boasted premium materials like quilted Nappa leather seats and a 10.1-inch touchscreen. The minivan's sound deadening technology was enhanced, providing a quieter ride.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Sequoia continued its second generation into its 14th year without substantial changes, maintaining a mature design. The Sequoia's exterior featured a modestly sized grille, elegant wheel arches, and straight lines, giving it a substantial presence. Despite its age, the Sequoia's interior was typical of Toyota, with high-quality materials and tight seams. However, it appeared dated compared to modern SUVs, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch TFT driver information screen. The Sequoia's interior was built to last, offering durability for families. The Nightshade Special Edition model, based on the Limited trim, showcased Toyota's efforts to keep the Sequoia relevant, though it still lacked the modern design elements found in newer SUVs.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica offered two powertrain options: a traditional 3.6-litre V6 engine producing 287 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, and a hybrid version with a V6 engine, dual-motor electrically variable transmission, and a 16-kilowatt-hour battery, achieving 260 horsepower from the engine and 198 horsepower from its motors. In Canada, all-wheel drive (AWD) was available for internal combustion engine models, while hybrid models were front-wheel drive only. The AWD system activated on-demand, enhancing traction in various conditions, and deactivated when not needed to improve fuel efficiency. The Pacifica Hybrid offered an all-electric range of over 50 kilometres and a total range of 784 kilometres, with fuel consumption ratings of 2.9 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres and 8.0 litres per 100 kilometres combined. The traditional V6 Pacifica had fuel consumption ratings of 12.4 litres per 100 kilometres in the city, 8.4 on the highway, and 10.6 combined, with AWD models slightly less efficient.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia featured a single powertrain option: a 5.7-litre i-Force V8 engine producing 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The Sequoia's truck roots contributed to its impressive payload capacity of up to 608 kilograms and a maximum towing capacity of 3,221 kilograms. However, its weight of around 2,721.5 kilograms resulted in higher fuel consumption ratings of 18.5 litres per 100 kilometres in the city, 13.9 on the highway, and 16.4 combined. Despite its weight, the Sequoia offered a smooth and stable ride, with excellent off-road capabilities thanks to its body-on-frame construction and ample ground clearance. The TRD Pro off-road model featured Fox shocks for enhanced performance. The Sequoia's turning circle and sightlines made it a practical choice for suburban driving, though its height required caution in low spaces.

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 for personal items and under-console storage for second-row passengers. 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 for 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 Toyota Sequoia prioritized passenger comfort, with roomy seating in all three rows and three-zone climate control. A standard power moonroof added to the interior's appeal. Heated front seats were standard, with heated rear seats available on the Platinum grade. The Sequoia offered ample storage, including a spacious centre console and glove compartment, as well as door pockets. The cargo compartment featured a 12-volt outlet, with 535 litres of luggage space behind the third row. Power-folding the third row expanded cargo space to 1,886 litres, and folding both the second and third rows provided 3,401 litres of space.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, known for its modern design and responsiveness. While it lacked a head-up display, the system offered easy-to-use navigation, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The second-row in-seat entertainment system remained an option, with additional games available. The Pacifica offered a range of audio systems, including a 19-speaker Harman Kardon option. The Pinnacle model included FamCam, an interior monitoring camera with unique features like a rear-facing child seat view.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia's infotainment system appeared outdated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a clunky operating system. However, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility were standard, along with Bluetooth connectivity. The Sequoia Platinum and TRD Pro models added navigation and a 14-speaker JBL premium audio system. While the Sequoia lacked modern powertrain technology, it featured LED exterior lighting and standard safety features like a rear backup camera and parking sonar.

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 with active braking. Adaptive cruise control, rain-sensing wipers, automatic high beams, and a surround-view camera were available on higher trims. The Pacifica received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia had not been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS, but it featured the Toyota Safety Sense P suite, including pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams. The Sequoia also included the STAR safety system, with stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, and more. A full complement of airbags and other safety features were standard.