2021 Chrysler Pacifica vs 2021 Volvo XC60

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, where a new all-LED taillamp spanned the width of the vehicle. The Pacifica offered six new wheel designs and the S Appearance Package, which added darkened features and black accents. Inside, the Pacifica distinguished itself from competitors like the Toyota Sienna and Kia Sedona by balancing practicality with premium touches, especially in the Pinnacle trim. This top-tier model boasted a flat dashboard with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, Piano Black plastic trim, wood accents, and quilted leather seats, creating a luxurious feel without compromising on practicality.

The 2021 Volvo XC60, positioned between the XC40 and XC90, was built on Volvo’s SPA platform, sharing its elegant, tailored design with other Volvo models. The XC60 featured a two-box design with short overhangs and crisp body details, highlighted by an upright grille and Thor’s hammer-shaped LED daytime running lights. The paint quality, chrome, and trim were meticulously executed, with alloy wheels up to 21 inches adding to its fashionable appearance. Inside, the XC60 exuded Scandinavian style with clean lines and authentic materials. The 9-inch portrait-oriented infotainment touchscreen was a standout feature, complemented by elegant HVAC vents and harmonious cabin textures, making it a pleasant environment for occupants.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica offered two powertrain options: a 3.6-liter V6 engine with 287 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, and a hybrid version with a dual-motor electrically variable transmission, achieving 260 horsepower from the engine and 198 horsepower from its motors. The Pacifica Touring and Touring L came standard with the V6 engine, while the Limited and Pinnacle trims offered all-wheel drive (AWD) or the hybrid powertrain. The AWD system, new to the lineup, 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 reducing these figures.

The 2021 Volvo XC60 featured a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine across its lineup, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The T5 models produced 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, while the T6 models increased output to 316 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque with the addition of a supercharger. The T8 models, as plug-in hybrids, combined an 87-horsepower electric motor with the gasoline engine, achieving 400 horsepower and 472 pound-feet of torque, with the T8 Polestar Engineered variant reaching 415 horsepower. The XC60 offered a serene driving experience, with AWD and torque vectoring enhancing cornering stability. Fuel economy ranged from 22 mpg city/29 mpg highway for the T5 FWD to 27 mpg combined for the T8 PHEV, with 57 MPGe in electric-only mode.

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 traditional armrests. Storage options included an under-stack area for personal items. Standard features included power-sliding rear doors, three-zone climate control, and Stow ’n Go seating, allowing for flexible cargo configurations. The Pacifica Pinnacle offered best-in-class total storage of 227.6 liters, making it ideal for family travel.

The 2021 Volvo XC60 excelled in comfort and functionality, with highly adjustable front seats and a heating system capable of handling harsh winter conditions. The cabin featured smart storage solutions in the center console, dashboard, and door panels, with intuitive controls for passengers. The XC60 provided 21.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and up to 63.6 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Each model was rated to tow up to 3,500 pounds, adding to its versatility.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, offering a modern and customizable interface with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. The system was responsive and easy to navigate, though it lacked a head-up display. The second-row in-seat entertainment system remained an option, with additional games available. Audio options ranged from a standard six-speaker system to a premium 20-speaker Harman Kardon system. The Pinnacle model included FamCam, an interior monitoring camera with unique features like a rear-facing child seat view.

The 2021 Volvo XC60 utilized the Sensus infotainment system, which featured a tablet-style touchpad interface. The system divided the screen into function quadrants, allowing users to easily access audio, navigation, and other features. Smartphone integration included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a WiFi hotspot. The Bowers & Wilkins premium audio system provided an exceptional listening experience, enhancing the overall cabin ambiance.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica came standard with 97 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, though the IIHS had not yet rated the model.

The 2021 Volvo XC60 was a testament to Volvo’s commitment to safety, earning a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA for certain models. Standard safety features included blind-spot monitoring, collision avoidance, and lane-keeping aid. Volvo’s Pilot Assist system offered semi-autonomous driving capabilities, integrating adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The XC60 was also equipped with a speed limiter, capping the top speed at 112 mph for safety.