2021 Chrysler Pacifica vs 2020 Mazda CX-5

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 was a testament to Mazda's commitment to delivering a premium experience. It featured captivating style and compelling substance, with continual product improvements that set it apart from competitors. This model year saw enhancements such as more standard equipment, refined cabin instrumentation, and modifications to reduce noise, vibration, and harshness. The turbocharged engine received a torque boost, and AWD models gained an off-road traction assistance feature. The CX-5's design, rooted in the "Kodo" styling themes, remained appealing and distinctive, while the interior, especially in Signature trim, exuded luxury with Nappa leather and real wood accents. However, the lack of contrast in the Caturra Brown leather diminished the premium feel.

In contrast, the 2021 Chrysler Pacifica underwent a mid-generation refresh that gave it a more muscular aesthetic with new LED headlights and a hexagonal grille. The rear featured an all-LED taillamp spanning the width of the model. The Pacifica's interior was designed with family life in mind, offering spacious seating and practical features like Stow 'n Go seats and ample storage. The Pinnacle trim elevated the luxury experience with quilted leather seats, suede pillows, and a 10.1-inch touchscreen. The Pacifica's design balanced practicality and luxury, making it a solid choice for families seeking a premium minivan.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 offered a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with AWD optional. The Grand Touring Reserve and Signature trims featured a turbocharged engine, delivering 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque with premium fuel, or 227 hp and 310 lb-ft with regular fuel. Despite its 3,825-pound curb weight, the turbocharged CX-5 accelerated with authority, though it was less efficient, averaging 22.1 mpg. The CX-5's G-Vectoring Control Plus technology enhanced driving engagement, but excessive body motions detracted from the overall thrill.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica offered a 3.6-liter V6 engine with 287 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. A hybrid powertrain option combined a V6 engine with a dual-motor electrically variable transmission, achieving 260 horsepower. The Pacifica's AWD system, available for the first time in 16 years, activated on-demand based on driving conditions. The hybrid model boasted an all-electric range of over 30 miles and a total range exceeding 500 miles, delivering 82 MPGe and 30 mpg combined. The traditional V6 Pacifica achieved 22 mpg combined, with AWD models slightly less efficient.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5's interior was stylish and well-appointed, but it was more cramped compared to competitors like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. The Touring trim added comfort features like dual-zone climate control and heated front seats, while the Signature trim offered Nappa leather and genuine wood trim. The front seats were comfortable, though rear legroom was limited. Cargo space measured 30.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 59.6 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica was designed with family life in mind, offering spacious seating and practical features like power-sliding rear doors and Stow 'n Go seats. The second- and third-row seats provided ample legroom, and the Pacifica's cargo area was generous, with best-in-class total storage of 227.6 liters. The Pinnacle trim added luxury touches like quilted leather seats and a padded center console lid, enhancing the overall comfort and functionality.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 featured the Mazda Connect infotainment system, which offered an upscale impression but required acclimation. The Sport trim included a 7-inch touchscreen, while the Grand Touring trim added an 8-inch display and a Bose sound system. Signature trim enhanced technology with navigation and a surround-view camera. The system's controls were not ideal, and voice recognition was limited.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica's Uconnect 5 infotainment system was modern and customizable, with a clean design and quick responsiveness. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, and the Pinnacle model featured FamCam, an interior monitoring camera. The Pacifica offered a range of sound system options, with the 20-speaker Harman Kardon system providing a high-quality listening experience. The second-row entertainment system included games and multiple ports for personal entertainment.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, with standard i-Activsense ADAS features like adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keep assist. It earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with high marks in individual testing parameters.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica came with 97 standard 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.