2021 Chrysler Pacifica vs 2020 Subaru Ascent

The 2020 Subaru Ascent, with its practical and utilitarian design, resembled a larger Subaru Forester. It featured gray plastic cladding for protection, an oversized grille, and exaggerated fender flares that added visual strength. The robust roof rails and 20-inch aluminum wheels on most trims contributed to its purposeful look. The Ascent's interior, especially in the Touring trim, was stylish and showcased quality materials, with Java Brown leather and a panoramic sunroof enhancing its appeal. Despite its luxurious Touring trim, CarGurus recommended the Ascent Premium with additional packages for a similar look at a lower price.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica underwent a mid-generation refresh, resulting in a more muscular aesthetic with new LED headlights and a hexagonal grille. The rear featured an all-LED taillamp with the Chrysler wing badge. The Pacifica's interior was designed for family life, offering spacious seating and practical features like Stow 'n Go seats and ample storage. The Pinnacle trim elevated the Pacifica to a premium level with quilted leather seats and upscale finishes. The Pacifica's design balanced practicality and luxury, making it a standout in the minivan segment.

The 2020 Subaru Ascent was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, delivering 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. It featured a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and all-wheel drive (AWD). While the Ascent provided good acceleration, its fuel efficiency was disappointing, averaging 18.9 mpg compared to the EPA estimate of 22 mpg. The CVT's behavior was inconsistent, leading to uneven power delivery. The Ascent excelled in off-road conditions, thanks to its AWD system, X-Mode off-road traction, and 8.7 inches of ground clearance.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica offered two powertrain options: a 3.6-liter V6 engine with 287 horsepower and a hybrid powertrain with a combined 260 horsepower. The hybrid model featured an all-electric range of over 30 miles and a total range of more than 500 miles, achieving 82 MPGe. The traditional V6 Pacifica delivered 19 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. The AWD system, available for the first time in 16 years, activated on-demand and deactivated for improved fuel efficiency. The Pacifica's powertrain options provided versatility and efficiency for various driving needs.

The 2020 Subaru Ascent offered a comfortable interior, especially in the Touring trim, with soft leather seats, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The Ascent's interior was spacious, with significant track travel for the front seats, making it appealing to tall individuals. The second-row captain's chairs provided comfort and flexibility, while the third-row offered acceptable space for shorter trips. The Ascent's cargo space was practical, with 17.8 cubic feet behind the third row and a maximum of 86 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica was designed with family life in mind, featuring spacious seating and practical storage solutions. The Stow 'n Go seats allowed for easy configuration and storage, even in AWD models. The Pacifica's cargo area was generous, with best-in-class total storage of 227.6 liters. The interior offered a sense of togetherness, with a padded center console lid replacing armrests. The Pacifica's design prioritized comfort and convenience, making it an ideal choice for families.

The 2020 Subaru Ascent came with a Starlink infotainment system, offering Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a CD player. The Premium trim added an 8-inch touchscreen, text-messaging capability, and a WiFi hotspot. The Touring trim featured a high-resolution screen and navigation. While the infotainment system was user-friendly, the voice-control system was outdated. The Ascent's safety features included a 180-degree front camera view and a PIN Code Vehicle Access system for active lifestyles.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, known for its modern design and responsiveness. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an optional in-seat entertainment system for the second row. The Pinnacle model offered FamCam, an interior monitoring camera with unique features. The Pacifica's sound system options ranged from a six-speaker setup to a 20-speaker Harman Kardon system, providing a high-quality listening experience. The Pacifica's technology enhanced convenience and entertainment for passengers.

The 2020 Subaru Ascent received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, thanks to its advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. The Ascent's EyeSight system projected helpful indicators on the windshield, enhancing safety without distraction. The rear-seat reminder system and Starlink Safety Plus connected services added to the Ascent's safety features.

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