2021 BMW X7 vs 2021 Chrysler Pacifica

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica underwent a significant exterior refresh, featuring new standard LED headlights and a hexagonal grille that contributed to a more muscular aesthetic. This design shift moved away from the elegance of previous models, yet retained some sophistication as the eye traveled to the sides and rear. The rear showcased an all-LED taillamp spanning the width of the vehicle, with the Chrysler wing badge at its center. The Pacifica offered six new wheel designs and the S Appearance Package, which added darkened features and black accents. Inside, the Pacifica differentiated itself from competitors like the Toyota Sienna and Kia Sedona by balancing practicality with premium touches, especially in the Pinnacle trim. The interior boasted a flat dashboard with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, Piano Black plastic trim, wood accents, and quilted leather seats, creating a posh atmosphere. The Pacifica also excelled in sound deadening, providing a quiet ride.

The 2021 BMW X7 stood out in the luxury SUV segment with its superior interior quality, prestige, and technological sophistication. It offered three versions: the xDrive40i, M50i, and Alpina BX7, each with escalating price points. The xDrive40i test vehicle featured 22-inch aluminum wheels, premium leather, and a trailer hitch, among other options. The X7's massive grille was a defining feature, fitting its large SUV stature. Inside, the X7 shared design elements with the X5, offering high-tech design and quality materials. The driving experience was smooth and serene, with the X7's weight and size evident on highways. The Dynamic Handling Package enhanced maneuverability and stability, while the Active Comfort Drive system adjusted suspension tuning for a comfortable ride. The X7's performance was impressive, with a 0-60 mph time of 5.8 seconds, though its handling in tight curves was less refined.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica offered two powertrain options: a 3.6-liter V6 engine with 287 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, and a V6 hybrid engine with a dual-motor electrically variable transmission, achieving 260 horsepower from the engine and 198 horsepower from its motors. The base Touring and Touring L trims came standard with the V6 engine, while the Limited and Pinnacle trims offered AWD or the hybrid powertrain. The AWD system, reintroduced after 16 years, activated on-demand based on driving conditions, enhancing traction without compromising fuel efficiency. The Pacifica Hybrid 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 achieved 19 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 22 mpg combined, with AWD models slightly lower.

The 2021 BMW X7 xDrive40i featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with 335 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed sport automatic transmission and xDrive AWD system. BMW's eBoost mild-hybrid technology added a 48-volt starter/generator and battery, enhancing fuel efficiency and responsiveness. Despite this, the X7's EPA ratings dropped to 19 mpg city, 24 mpg highway, and 21 mpg combined. The X7 accelerated to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, offering ample power. The Dynamic Handling Package improved driving dynamics, though the X7's weight affected handling in tight curves. The Active Comfort Drive system and Integral Active Steering enhanced ride comfort and maneuverability.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica was designed with family life in mind, offering spacious seating and practical storage solutions. The front seats provided ample space and a sense of togetherness, with a padded center console lid replacing armrests. Storage options included an under-stack area and under-console storage for second-row passengers. Standard features included power-sliding rear doors, three-zone climate control, and Stow 'n Go seating. The Pacifica's cargo area was spacious, with best-in-class total storage of 227.6 liters.

The 2021 BMW X7 offered a luxurious interior with features like heated and ventilated seats, premium leather upholstery, and a five-zone climate control system. Front-seat comfort was exceptional, and the second-row captain's chairs were equally comfortable. The third-row seat accommodated adults, though accessing it required adjusting the power seats. The X7's cargo space was limited behind the third row but expanded to 48.6 cubic feet with the seats folded, and 90.4 cubic feet with the second row down.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, offering a modern and customizable interface with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Hands-free sliding doors were available on mid-grade models and above. The second-row entertainment system included games and ports for personal devices. Audio options ranged from a six-speaker system to a 20-speaker Harman Kardon system. The Pinnacle model included FamCam, an interior monitoring camera with unique features.

The 2021 BMW X7 paired Live Cockpit Professional digital instrumentation with the iDrive 7.0 infotainment system, featuring a 12.3-inch touchscreen. The system included Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM 360L, and Connected Package Pro. Wireless charging, voice recognition, and gesture control were also available. The head-up display was difficult to see with polarized sunglasses, but the overall technology experience was user-friendly.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica came standard with 97 safety features, increasing to 100 in the Pinnacle trim. Key features 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.

The 2021 BMW X7 included standard safety technologies, with additional features available in the Driving Assistance Professional Package and Parking Assistance Package. The package added features like evasive-steering assist and traffic-jam assist. The X7's driving assistance technology was generally impressive, though some specific situations revealed limitations.