2021 Chrysler Pacifica vs 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee, despite its decade-old design, maintained a timeless appeal with its traditional Jeep styling cues, such as the 7-slot grille and trapezoidal fenders. It presented a balanced appearance that was equally suitable for rugged trails and upscale venues, making it attractive to a diverse range of buyers. The Grand Cherokee's pricing started at $32,150 for the Laredo model and went up to $52,495 for the Summit, with high-performance versions like the SRT and Trackhawk priced even higher. The Limited X model, tested at $53,275, featured a Slate Blue Pearl exterior with a sport-themed design and 20-inch aluminum wheels. However, the interior, especially in models priced over $50,000, was criticized for its use of hard plastics, which detracted from the overall premium feel.

In contrast, the 2021 Chrysler Pacifica underwent a mid-generation refresh that included a revised exterior with new LED headlights and a hexagonal grille, giving it a more muscular look. The Pacifica retained some of its original sophistication, particularly in its side and rear design, which featured a new all-LED taillamp. Chrysler introduced six new wheel designs and the S Appearance Package, which added darkened features and black accents. Inside, the Pacifica offered a premium experience, especially in the Pinnacle trim, with features like quilted leather seats, a 10.1-inch touchscreen, and a focus on comfort and luxury. The Pacifica's design was practical yet upscale, with a well-weighted feel and enhanced sound deadening technology.

The 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee came standard with a 295-horsepower, 3.6-liter V6 engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, providing satisfying acceleration and an EPA-rated 21 mpg in combined driving. However, the test vehicle achieved 19.4 mpg. For those seeking more power, three V8 engines were available, including a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 with 360 hp, a 6.4-liter Hemi V8 in the SRT with 475 hp, and a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 in the Trackhawk with 707 hp. The Grand Cherokee offered various 4WD systems, with the Trailhawk model equipped for off-road adventures. The Limited X model featured the Quadra-Trac II 4WD system, providing off-road capability despite its pavement-friendly tires. On-road dynamics were mixed, with impressive grip but some suspension issues.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica offered two powertrain options: a 3.6-liter V6 engine with 287 horsepower and a hybrid version with a combined 260 horsepower. The Pacifica introduced AWD for the first time in 16 years, with an on-demand system that activated based on driving conditions. The hybrid model offered an all-electric range of over 30 miles and a total range of over 500 miles, delivering 82 MPGe and 30 mpg combined. The traditional V6 Pacifica achieved 19 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, with slightly lower numbers for AWD models. The Pacifica's performance was tailored for efficiency and versatility, with smooth transitions between AWD activation and deactivation.

The 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered seating for five and cargo space of 36.3 cubic feet behind the backseat, expanding to 68.3 cubic feet with the backseat folded. The front seats were heated and power-adjustable, but lacked ventilation. The interior featured a leather-wrapped steering wheel and padded armrests, while rear passengers enjoyed air conditioning vents and USB ports. Storage was decent, with a center console tray and door-panel bins, though the glovebox was small.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica was designed with family life in mind, offering spacious seating and a sense of togetherness. The interior featured power-sliding rear doors, three-zone climate control, and Stow 'n Go seating for flexible cargo space. The Pacifica Pinnacle provided best-in-class total storage of 227.6 liters. Second-row passengers benefited from under-console storage, while the cargo area was spacious enough for family travel.

The 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee featured the Uconnect infotainment system with an 8.4-inch touchscreen, navigation, and smartphone integration. The system was user-friendly but could be challenging to operate on bumpy roads. The Limited X trim included a 9-speaker Alpine sound system, with a 19-speaker Harman Kardon option available. Unique to Jeep, the Off-Road Pages app provided off-roading information, while the SRT and Trackhawk models offered Performance Pages for tracking metrics.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica's Uconnect 5 system was modern and customizable, with a clean design and responsive navigation. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, and the second-row entertainment system offered games and media options. The Pinnacle model featured FamCam, an interior monitoring camera with advanced functionality. The Pacifica offered multiple sound system upgrades, with the 20-speaker Harman Kardon system providing a high-quality listening experience.

The 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered three collections of advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS), with ProTech I standard on all trims. ProTech II added features like forward-collision warning and lane-keeping assist, while Advanced ProTech II included adaptive cruise control and semi-autonomous parking assist. Despite these features, the Grand Cherokee received a 4-star overall rating from the NHTSA and poor ratings from the IIHS for certain crash tests.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica came standard with 97 safety features, increasing to 100 in the Pinnacle trim. Key technologies included forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. The Pacifica received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though the IIHS had not yet rated the model at the time of publication.