2021 Chrysler Pacifica vs 2022 Volvo XC60

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, complemented by the Chrysler wing badge. The Pacifica offered six new wheel designs and the S Appearance Package, which added 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 boasted a flat dashboard with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, Piano Black plastic trim, wood accents, and luxurious materials like quilted Nappa leather seats.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 received subtle styling updates, including a new front fascia with "air blades" for a sportier look and a reworked grille that housed driver-assist sensors behind a heated Volvo logo. The rear bumper was redesigned to hide the tailpipes, and new wheel designs were introduced. The XC60's interior remained largely unchanged, maintaining its clean design with a portrait-oriented touchscreen and minimal clutter. The B6 R-Design model featured aluminum mesh speaker grilles and textured seats, adding flair to an otherwise subdued interior. The Inscription trim offered Nappa leather upholstery and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, enhancing the luxury feel.

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 paired 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 seeing slightly higher rates. The AWD system was a new addition, engaging automatically when needed and deactivating for improved fuel efficiency.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 introduced new B5 and B6 mild-hybrid powertrains, replacing the previous T5 and T6 options. The B5 produced 258 hp and 247 lb-ft of torque, while the B6 offered 295 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, both paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The B6 also included an electric supercharger. The XC60 B5 accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds, and the B6 in 5.9 seconds. The XC60 emphasized a calm driving experience with a quiet cabin and comfortable ride, enhanced by optional air suspension. The plug-in hybrid XC60 Recharge delivered 400 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque, achieving zero to 60 mph in 5 seconds, while the Polestar Engineered version increased output to 415 hp and 494 lb-ft, with a 4.9-second acceleration time.

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 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, 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 Volvo XC60 maintained competitive passenger space, with above-average front-seat headroom but limited rear-seat headroom. Cargo space was 611 litres with the rear seats up and 1,410 litres with them folded for mild-hybrid models, while plug-in hybrids offered slightly less. The XC60 provided a commanding driving position with good visibility, despite a somewhat pinched roofline.

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 second-row in-seat entertainment. Sound system upgrades were available, including a 19-speaker Harman Kardon option. The Pinnacle model offered FamCam, an interior monitoring camera with unique features like a rear-facing child seat view.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 received a tech overhaul with a 9-inch touchscreen running Android Automotive, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot. The system integrated Google Assistant for voice control and Google Maps for navigation, with over-the-air updates. While Android users could sync profiles, iPhone compatibility was also promised. The system's graphics were praised, though the Google-based design might not appeal to Apple users.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica offered up to 116 safety features, with key features like automatic pedestrian emergency braking and blind spot monitoring available from the Touring-L grade. The Pinnacle grade included adaptive cruise control and a surround-view camera. The Pacifica received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Volvo XC60's safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. The 2021 model received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Volvo's driver assistance system combined adaptive cruise control and automated lane centring.