2021 Chrysler Pacifica vs 2022 Lexus NX

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica underwent a mid-generation refresh, showcasing a revised exterior with new standard LED headlights flanking a hexagonal grille. This update gave the Pacifica a more muscular look, moving away from the elegance of previous models. The sophistication of the original design remained evident as one moved from the front to the sides and rear, where a new all-LED taillamp spanned the width of the vehicle. Chrysler introduced 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. The Pacifica Pinnacle trim exemplified this with comfort-focused features such as quilted leather seats and a 10.1-inch touchscreen. The interior design included a flat dashboard with a tilted lower half housing the shifter and climate controls. The Pacifica's build quality was notable, with well-weighted doors and enhanced sound deadening technology.

The 2022 Lexus NX, redesigned for its release, offered four model series with varying levels of electrification. The NX 350, in F Sport and Luxury trims, featured a distinctive spindle grille and new block lettering on the tailgate. The model was longer, wider, and taller, providing more space for passengers and cargo. The F Sport trim stood out with unique styling elements and sport-bolstered seats, while the interior adopted a minimalist design with a focus on simplicity.

The NX's interior was comfortable, especially with heated and ventilated front seats. Rear passengers enjoyed ample space and amenities like air conditioning vents and USB ports. The NX boasted a panoramic sunroof and a thematic ambient lighting system. Cargo space increased by 14%, offering 22.7 cubic feet behind the back seat and 46.9 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica offered a 3.6-liter V6 engine with 287 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. A hybrid version combined a V6 engine with a dual-motor system, delivering 260 horsepower. The Pacifica introduced AWD for the first time in 16 years, with an on-demand system that activated under specific conditions. The hybrid model provided 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 offered 19 mpg city and 28 mpg highway, with AWD reducing these figures slightly.

The 2022 Lexus NX featured two electrified versions: the NX 350h hybrid with 239 horsepower and 39 mpg combined, and the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid with 302 horsepower and a 36-mile electric range. The NX 350 had a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. The NX 250 offered a 2.5-liter engine with 203 horsepower. Both models included multiple driving modes, with the F Sport trim adding adaptive suspension and performance dampers. The NX 350 accelerated to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds, with observed fuel economy of 22.2 mpg for the F Sport and 25.5 mpg for the Luxury trim.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica was designed for family life, with spacious seating and practical storage solutions. The minivan featured power-sliding rear doors, three-zone climate control, and Stow ’n Go seating. The second-row storage included a sliding bin for convenience. The Pacifica offered ample legroom, with Stow ’n Go seats providing flexibility for cargo. The Pinnacle trim boasted best-in-class storage of 227.6 liters.

The 2022 Lexus NX provided more interior room, though it felt cozy from the driver’s seat. The SUV offered comfortable seating with heated and ventilated options. Rear passengers enjoyed spacious accommodations and practical storage. The NX featured a panoramic sunroof and ambient lighting. Cargo space increased to 22.7 cubic feet behind the seats and 46.9 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica featured Uconnect 5, a modern infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen. It included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with optional rear-seat entertainment. The Pinnacle model offered FamCam, an interior monitoring camera. Sound system options ranged from a six-speaker setup to a 20-speaker Harman Kardon system.

The 2022 Lexus NX introduced the Lexus Interface infotainment system with a 9.8-inch or optional 14-inch touchscreen. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, voice recognition, and cloud-based features. A 10-speaker sound system was standard, with a 17-speaker Mark Levinson system available. The NX offered advanced voice and intelligent assistant systems, digital key capability, and a head-up display.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica came with 97 standard safety features, increasing to 100 in the Pinnacle trim. Key technologies included forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist. The Pacifica received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Lexus NX featured the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including new technologies like Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist and Oncoming Vehicle Detection. The NX offered blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, and Safe Exit Assist. Premium trim added rear pedestrian detection and adaptive front lighting.