2021 Chrysler Pacifica vs 2022 Lexus GX

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 a touch of sophistication as the eye traveled from the front 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 included darkened features and black accents. Inside, the Pacifica stood out 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 2022 Lexus GX 460 Black Line Special Edition, available in Black Onyx, Starfire Pearl, or Nori Green Pearl, featured a design that eliminated chrome, creating a striking, dark appearance. However, the GX's overall look remained dated, reminiscent of its first-generation model from 2002. Inside, the cabin maintained Lexus's reputation for quality, with smooth, refined materials and a quiet atmosphere, despite the faint roar of the V8 engine. The GX offered Standard, Premium, and Luxury trims, with the Black Line Special Edition based on the Premium trim. While the interior quality was commendable, the GX's design and features felt outdated compared to more modern SUVs.

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 hybrid powertrain combining a V6 engine with dual-motor electrically variable transmission, delivering 260 horsepower from the engine and 198 horsepower from its motors. The hybrid model boasted an all-electric range of over 30 miles and a total range exceeding 500 miles, achieving 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, new to the Pacifica lineup, activated on-demand based on driving conditions, enhancing traction without compromising fuel efficiency.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460 featured a 4.6-liter V8 engine producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a full-time 4WD system. The GX's 0-60 mph time was a leisurely 7.8 seconds, but its torque contributed to a towing capacity of 6,500 pounds. The GX's fuel economy was 16 mpg combined, with a slightly better result of 16.8 mpg during testing. The Kinetic Dynamics Suspension System (KDSS) improved the GX's ride quality, enhancing stability and off-road capability. Despite its age, the GX remained agreeable to drive, though its slow steering and touchy brake pedal were drawbacks.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica was designed with family life in mind, offering spacious seating and practical features. 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, making it ideal for family travel.

The 2022 Lexus GX offered an elevated driving position and clear visibility, with comfortable seats and physical controls. The Black Line Special Edition featured NuLuxe upholstery, black ash wood trim, and a black headliner. The GX's interior was comfortable, but accessing the rear seats was challenging due to narrow door openings. The third-row seat was cramped and reduced cargo space, with a heavy tailgate that swung open to the side, complicating loading. The GX's cargo capacity was limited, with 11.6 cubic feet behind the third row and 64.7 cubic feet with the second row folded.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica featured Uconnect 5, a modern and customizable infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a six-speaker sound system, with optional upgrades to a 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 Pacifica's technology enhanced convenience and entertainment for families.

The 2022 Lexus GX introduced a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, eliminating the need for the outdated Remote Touch Interface. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and navigation, with a CD player and Lexus Enform connected services. The GX's infotainment display offered a dual-screen view, and voice recognition technology was quick and accurate. Standard Intuitive Parking Assist technology and optional surround-view cameras enhanced safety and convenience.

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 Lexus GX lacked crash-test ratings but included Lexus Safety System+ with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. Additional features included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The GX's safety features were comprehensive, though some modern technologies were absent.