2021 Cadillac XT5 vs 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 represented a significant step forward in Cadillac's efforts to reclaim its status as a leader in luxury vehicles. With updates from the previous year carrying over, the XT5 showcased a refined exterior with a snub-nosed design and distinct trim level features. Its standard LED lights and 20-inch wheels added to its sophisticated appearance. Inside, the XT5 offered a more upscale interior than its GM sibling, the Chevrolet Blazer, with cut and sewn leather, natural wood, and carbon fiber accents. Despite some shortcomings in comfort and material quality, the XT5's interior design was a marked improvement over previous Cadillac models, exuding elegance, especially in the Premium Luxury trim.

In contrast, the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, while not a visual standout, offered a unique proposition as a plug-in hybrid minivan. Its design was more rounded and flowing, which some might find dated compared to the sharper lines of modern vehicles. The Pacifica Hybrid's interior was comfortable, with quality black Nappa leather and a spacious layout. However, it didn't attempt to disguise its minivan roots, unlike some competitors. Despite its higher price point, the Pacifica Hybrid provided a practical and efficient solution for families, with its electric-only driving range and ample interior space making it a compelling choice for those prioritizing utility and efficiency.

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 offered a choice between a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 237 horsepower and a 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 310 horsepower. Both engines were paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, which was smooth when upshifting but less refined when downshifting. The V6 engine provided immediate throttle response, although additional low-end torque would have been beneficial. The XT5's fuel economy was competitive, achieving about 25 mpg in AWD configuration during testing, surpassing the EPA estimate. The XT5 handled well, offering a comfortable ride and competent road manners.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured a plug-in hybrid drivetrain based on a 3.6-liter V6 engine paired with a dual-motor electric drive system, delivering a total of 260 horsepower. The Pacifica Hybrid excelled in efficiency, offering up to 32 miles of electric-only range and achieving an average fuel economy of 37.1 mpg during testing. The transition between electric and gasoline power was seamless, and the regenerative braking system effectively recaptured energy. However, the Pacifica Hybrid's driving experience was less engaging, with light steering and unremarkable handling. Despite this, its powertrain was praised for its brilliance and efficiency.

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 provided seating for four adults comfortably, though the rear seat offered limited headroom for taller passengers. The front seats, while visually appealing, lacked comfort on long trips. The XT5 offered 30 cubic feet of cargo space, which was less than some competitors but featured a deep rear cargo area. The cargo-management system allowed for secure storage, and a hands-free liftgate was available. However, small-item storage was limited, with few convenient places for smartphones or other essentials.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, offering three rows of comfortable seating and ample cargo space. The interior featured quality leather upholstery, triple-zone climate control, and numerous storage solutions, including a large floor tray and multiple bins. The second-row seats were more comfortable than those in a standard Pacifica, though they required removal to maximize cargo space. The Pacifica Hybrid offered 32.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 87.5 cubic feet with the third row folded and 140.5 cubic feet with the second row removed, surpassing many SUVs in cargo capacity.

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 featured a streamlined infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen and a rotary controller. It offered one-touch phone pairing, an eight-speaker Bose sound system, and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A 4G LTE WiFi hotspot and a 14-speaker Bose Performance Series sound system were available. The XT5 also included a rear camera mirror and a head-up display, enhancing the driving experience with useful technology.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid came equipped with the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, featuring a 10.1-inch touchscreen with appealing graphics and a user-friendly interface. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa compatibility, and connected services. The available FamCam system allowed parents to monitor rear-seat passengers. The Pacifica Hybrid also offered a 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system and an optional rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV. However, the voice recognition technology was inconsistent, and the sound system required adjustments for optimal performance.

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 offered a range of safety features, including front automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. The available Night Vision technology enhanced nighttime driving, and the Teen Driver software allowed parents to monitor and limit vehicle features for young drivers. However, not all safety technologies were available across all trim levels.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted an extensive list of standard safety features, including a rear-seat reminder system. It offered adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and lane-keeping assist, though the adaptive cruise control required refinement. The Pacifica Hybrid earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with a four-star rating for frontal-impact protection.