2021 Chrysler Pacifica vs 2022 Toyota Sienna

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 some sophistication as the eye moved towards the sides and rear. The rear was marked by an 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 differentiated itself from competitors like the 2021 Toyota Sienna and 2022 Kia Carnival. While the Sienna emphasized spaciousness with hardy materials, and the Carnival opted for a utility-vehicle-like design, the Pacifica balanced 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. The Pacifica's doors had a well-weighted feel, and sound deadening technology was enhanced with new windows, seals, and insulation.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna embraced its minivan identity while incorporating SUV styling cues. It featured a macho front end and re-engineered door hinges that concealed the slider channel, giving it a more assertive profile. The Sienna's interior avoided a minivan feel with an uncluttered design and ample storage, including an under-console area and numerous cup holders. The second and third rows offered comfortable seating, with available captain’s chairs and a spacious third-row bench that folded into the floor. The Sienna's cargo space was versatile, accommodating a full 4x8 sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed.

The Sienna's interior was designed for family convenience, with power-operated sliding doors and a rear liftgate, available with foot-motion triggers. This feature was particularly useful for parents with their hands full. The Sienna's cargo capacity was impressive, with 949 litres behind the third row, 2,129 litres behind the second row, and 2,860 litres behind the first row. It also boasted a 1,585-kilogram towing capacity, making it a practical choice for families with diverse needs.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica offered two powertrain options: a traditional 3.6-litre V6 engine with 287 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, and a hybrid version with a V6 engine, dual-motor electrically variable transmission, and a 16-kilowatt-hour battery, achieving 260 horsepower. The hybrid model had 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 L/100 km in the city, 8.4 on the highway, and 10.6 combined, with AWD models slightly less efficient.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna came exclusively with a hybrid powertrain, featuring a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and two electric motors, producing 243 horsepower. FWD was standard, with AWD available on most trims. The AWD system added a separate electric motor for the rear wheels, enhancing traction without mechanical complexity. The Sienna used a CVT for smooth power delivery and offered four drive modes. Its fuel consumption was impressive, with FWD models achieving 6.6 L/100 km in the city and 6.5 on the highway, while AWD models had slightly higher rates.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica was designed with family life in mind, offering spacious front seats and a practical centre console. It featured power-sliding doors, three-zone climate control, and Stow ’n Go seating for flexible cargo space. The Pacifica's cargo area was generous, with best-in-class total storage of 3,979 litres. The second-row under-console storage was a convenient feature for passengers, providing space for small items and cup holders.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna excelled in cargo versatility, capable of carrying a full 4x8 sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed. Its sliding second row allowed for flexible loading options, with cargo measurements of 949 litres behind the third row, 2,129 litres behind the second row, and 2,860 litres behind the first row. The Sienna also had a 1,585-kilogram towing capacity. The interior featured ample storage cubbies, cupholders, and power-operated doors for convenience.

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 six-speaker setup to a 20-speaker Harman Kardon system.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna came with a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, standard across all trims, with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. It offered telematics services, Bluetooth, and optional Qi wireless charging. Higher trims featured a 12-speaker JBL audio system and a rear-seat entertainment system with an 11.6-inch display. The Sienna also had a digital rearview mirror and remote keyless entry, with Smart Key System on higher trims.