2020 Jeep Wrangler vs 2021 Chrysler Pacifica

The 2020 Jeep Wrangler was a vehicle that stood out on the road with its iconic design. It featured circular headlights, a seven-slat grille, and a boxy style that was unmistakably Jeep. The Wrangler's industrial look was further enhanced by exposed hinges and bolts, and its removable top added to its rugged persona. Inside, Jeep maintained a retro aesthetic with circular climate vents and gauges, emphasizing utility over luxury. The Wrangler Unlimited trims ranged from the basic Sport with manual windows to the upscale Sahara and the off-road king, Rubicon, each offering varying levels of comfort and capability.

In contrast, the 2021 Chrysler Pacifica underwent a mid-generation refresh that gave it a more muscular appearance with new LED headlights and a hexagonal grille. The Pacifica retained some of its original elegance, especially noticeable from the sides and rear, where a new all-LED taillamp spanned the width of the vehicle. Inside, the Pacifica balanced practicality with luxury, particularly in the Pinnacle trim, which featured quilted leather seats and a 10.1-inch touchscreen. The Pacifica was designed with family life in mind, offering spacious seating, Stow 'n Go seats, and ample cargo space, making it a premium choice for those seeking comfort and functionality.

The 2020 Jeep Wrangler offered a range of engine options, starting with a 3.6-liter V6 producing 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic transmission. A turbocharged 4-cylinder engine was also available, delivering 270 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The standout was the 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel, which provided 260 hp and an impressive 442 lb-ft of torque, making it ideal for off-road adventures. Despite its off-road prowess, the Wrangler's on-road performance was less refined, with noticeable road noise and a rough ride. Fuel economy for the diesel engine was 22 mpg city, 29 highway, and 25 combined, offering a slight improvement over the gas-powered versions.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica came with a 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 287 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. A hybrid option combined the V6 with a dual-motor electrically variable transmission, achieving 260 horsepower and an all-electric range of over 30 miles. The Pacifica's AWD system was a new addition, providing on-demand activation for improved traction. The hybrid model delivered 82 MPGe and 30 mpg combined, while the traditional V6 achieved 19 mpg city, 28 highway, and 22 combined. The Pacifica's performance was tailored for efficiency and comfort, making it a versatile choice for families.

The 2020 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited was known for its versatility, with removable doors, a fold-down windshield, and a droppable roof. The four-door Unlimited model offered about 72 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear bench lowered, though it sacrificed some comfort and cargo space compared to less capable SUVs. The Wrangler's design allowed for a unique open-air experience, appealing to those who valued off-road capability and adventure.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica was designed with family life in mind, offering spacious seating and ample storage. The minivan featured power-sliding rear doors, three-zone climate control, and Stow 'n Go seats that folded into the floor for easy loading. The Pacifica Pinnacle provided best-in-class total storage of 227.6 liters, making it ideal for family travel. The interior was thoughtfully designed to accommodate both passengers and cargo, providing a comfortable and practical environment for daily use.

The 2020 Jeep Wrangler's technology varied by trim, with the Sport and Sport S featuring a basic 5-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The Rubicon and Sahara offered a 7-inch touchscreen with Uconnect, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, while an 8.4-inch system with navigation and premium audio was available as an upgrade. The Wrangler's technology focused on enhancing the driving experience, particularly for off-road enthusiasts.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, offering a modern and customizable interface. The system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with an optional second-row entertainment system. The Pacifica Pinnacle introduced FamCam, an interior monitoring camera with unique features like a rear-facing child seat view. The available 20-speaker Harman Kardon audio system provided a high-quality listening experience, making the Pacifica a tech-savvy choice for families.

The 2020 Jeep Wrangler came with standard safety features like airbags, electronic roll mitigation, and a backup camera. Optional safety packages added rear parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control, addressing the Wrangler's awkward sightlines and enhancing driver confidence.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica boasted 97 standard safety features, increasing to 100 in the Pinnacle trim. Key technologies included forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Pacifica received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, highlighting its commitment to safety.