2022 Acura RDX vs 2021 Chrysler Pacifica

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica underwent a significant mid-generation refresh, resulting in a more muscular exterior design. The new hexagonal grille and standard LED headlights contributed to a robust front-end appearance, moving away from the elegance of previous models. The rear featured 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 included darkened features and black accents. Inside, the Pacifica balanced practicality and luxury, especially in the Pinnacle trim, which boasted quilted leather seats, suede center row pillows, and a 10.1-inch touchscreen. The minivan's sound-deadening technology ensured a quiet ride, enhancing its premium feel.

In contrast, the 2022 Acura RDX displayed subtle styling changes inspired by the larger MDX model, with updates to the grille surround and bumper styling. The RDX PMC Edition returned with exclusive Long Beach Blue Pearl paint and an Orchid white interior. The RDX lineup included various packages, with starting prices ranging from $42,300 to $53,300. The A-Spec Advance package, tested at $53,645, offered high-quality interior materials and a quieter cabin. Despite some design quirks, such as the vertical air inlets, the RDX maintained a stylish presence. The interior featured a sporty driving position and a panoramic sunroof, though the back seat lacked comfort for adults. The RDX provided ample cargo space, with a power liftgate and hidden storage compartments.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica offered two powertrain options: a 3.6-liter V6 engine with 287 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, 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 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 Pacifica achieved 19 mpg in the city, 28 mpg on the highway, and 22 mpg combined, with AWD models slightly reducing these figures. The AWD system, reintroduced after 16 years, activated on-demand based on driving conditions, enhancing traction and efficiency.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. A 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters was standard, and the RDX offered a smooth and enjoyable driving experience. The SH-AWD system, standard on higher trims, provided torque-vectoring capabilities, enhancing cornering performance. The RDX's Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) offered distinct driving modes, and the adaptive-damping suspension improved ride comfort and responsiveness. Despite its engaging driving dynamics, the RDX did not qualify for Acura's Type S performance badge. The RDX averaged 20.6 mpg during testing, slightly below its EPA rating of 23 mpg.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica was designed with family life in mind, offering spacious seating and practical features. The front seats provided ample space, and the center console allowed for a sense of togetherness. The Pacifica included power-sliding rear doors, three-zone climate control, and Stow 'n Go seating for versatile cargo configurations. The second-row under-console storage and Stow 'n Go third-row bench seat added convenience. The Pacifica Pinnacle offered best-in-class total storage of 227.6 liters, making it ideal for family travel.

The 2022 Acura RDX, a compact SUV, provided ample room for four adults and their luggage, with a standard panoramic sunroof. The interior featured a sporty driving position and a unique control layout, including the True Touchpad Interface infotainment system. The front seats were comfortable and supportive, while the back seat lacked comfort for adults. The RDX offered a power liftgate and 29.5 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 58.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, offering a modern and customizable interface. The system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though it lacked a head-up display. The Pacifica offered an optional second-row in-seat entertainment system with games and various ports for personal entertainment. The Pinnacle model included 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.

The 2022 Acura RDX's True Touchpad Interface (TTI) paired a 10.2-inch display with a touchpad controller, offering a unique but complex user experience. The RDX included Amazon Alexa Built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad. The RDX offered three premium sound systems, with the ELS Studio 3D surround-sound audio system available on higher trims. The RDX also featured a 10.5-inch head-up display on select packages.

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, 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 2022 Acura RDX received structural upgrades for improved side-impact safety and aimed to maintain its Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. New safety features included a rear seatbelt reminder system and enhanced AcuraWatch driver-assist systems. The RDX received a five-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA, with four-star frontal-impact and rollover resistance ratings.