2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 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 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. This top-tier model featured a flat dashboard with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, Piano Black plastic trim, wood accents, and quilted leather seats, creating a luxurious atmosphere. The Pacifica's doors closed with a solid thud, and its sound-deadening technology effectively minimized road noise.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS, in its base GLS 450 form, presented a more understated look compared to its flashier competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. The AMG GLS 63 and Maybach versions offered more visual drama with features like flared wheel arches and chrome accents. Inside, the GLS 450's interior, though basic by GLS standards, still exuded luxury with leather upholstery, a panoramic roof, and ambient lighting. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen were well-integrated into the upright dashboard. While the GLS 450's interior felt high-quality, it was perhaps too subdued for those seeking opulence. The GLS offered a comfortable driving experience, though the suspension lacked the refinement expected in a luxury SUV, leading to excessive motion over bumps and in corners.

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 a 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 seeing a slight decrease in fuel efficiency. The AWD system, a new addition, activated on-demand based on driving conditions, enhancing traction without compromising efficiency.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 featured a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, assisted by the EQ Boost mild-hybrid system, which added 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque in short bursts. The GLS 450's inline-six engine provided smooth performance, and the electric assist was seamlessly integrated. The GLS 450's air suspension, while capable of adjusting ride height, exhibited poor body control, leading to excessive motion over bumps and in corners. The GLS 450 had a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds, slightly less than some competitors. Mercedes planned to resume production of the GLS 580 4Matic, AMG GLS 63, and Maybach GLS 600 4Matic, all featuring a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica was designed with family life in mind, offering spacious seating and practical storage solutions. The front seating area 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 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with a seven-seat configuration, with an optional six-seat version featuring captain's chairs. The second-row seats could slide forward and fold for third-row access, with the standard bench seat offering 3.4 inches of additional legroom. The GLS provided 17.4 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats in place, expanding to 84.7 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The GLS featured one-touch power-folding seats and a power tailgate, with the air suspension lowering for easier loading. However, the touchscreen was difficult to reach, and some ergonomic issues were noted.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, offering a modern and customizable interface with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system was responsive and easy to use, though it lacked a head-up display. The second-row in-seat entertainment system remained an option, with additional games available. Audio options included a standard six-speaker system, with upgrades to a 13-speaker Alpine system or 19- and 20-speaker Harman Kardon systems. The Pinnacle model included FamCam, an interior monitoring camera with unique features like a rear-facing child seat view.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came equipped with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring a 12.3-inch touchscreen, digital instrument cluster, and voice recognition. The system offered multiple control options, with voice recognition being the most user-friendly. The GLS lacked the augmented-reality navigation feature found in the S-Class, and the navigation system occasionally suggested inefficient routes. The standard 13-speaker Burmester audio system provided a high-quality listening experience, with a head-up display available as an option.

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 with pedestrian detection. The Pacifica received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though the IIHS had not yet rated the model.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and advanced driver-assistance systems. Crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were not available at the time of publication.