2021 Chrysler Pacifica vs 2022 Toyota RAV4

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 was marked by 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 with premium touches, especially in the Pinnacle trim, which boasted quilted leather seats, a 10.1-inch touchscreen, and sound-deadening technology for a quieter ride.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, a mature crossover SUV, continued to build on its legacy as a sales leader. Its exterior design, while fitting in with current crossover trends, featured angular wheel arches and crisp lines that contrasted with the body-side bends. The expressive headlights and grille gave it a playful yet aggressive look. Inside, the RAV4 offered a layered dash with contrasting textures and colors, anchored by a straightforward center stack. The interior design included a geometric pattern that tied various cabin elements together, enhancing the overall aesthetic. The Adventure-trim test vehicle showcased the RAV4's car-like handling and quality fit-and-finish, making it a popular choice among drivers.

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 V6 hybrid engine with a dual-motor electrically variable transmission, achieving 260 horsepower. The hybrid model boasted an all-electric range of over 30 miles and a total range exceeding 500 miles, with an impressive 82 MPGe and 30 mpg combined. The traditional V6 delivered 19 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 22 mpg combined, with AWD models slightly less efficient. The AWD system, new to the Pacifica lineup, activated on-demand based on driving conditions, enhancing traction without compromising fuel efficiency.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered three powertrains: a gasoline-only 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 203 horsepower, a hybrid version with 217 combined net horsepower, and the RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid with 302 horsepower. The gasoline model achieved 27-28 mpg city and 35 mpg highway, while the hybrid delivered 41 mpg city and 38 mpg highway. The RAV4 Prime, with an all-electric range of 42 miles, offered 94 MPGe combined. The Adventure AWD model provided smooth power delivery and car-like handling, with an eight-speed automatic transmission and three drive modes for tailored performance. The AWD system featured Multi-Terrain Select and dynamic torque vectoring for improved handling.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica was designed with family life in mind, offering spacious seating and practical storage solutions. The cabin featured a padded center console lid, power-sliding rear doors, and Stow 'n Go seats for flexible cargo space. The Pacifica Pinnacle provided best-in-class total storage of 227.6 liters, making it ideal for family travel. The second-row under-console storage and power-adjustable driver's seat added to the convenience and comfort of the minivan.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, classified as a small SUV, offered 37.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expanding to 69.8 cubic feet with the seats folded flat. It had a healthy payload capacity and towing capabilities, with Adventure and TRD Off-Road models rated to tow up to 3,500 pounds. Inside, the RAV4 provided ample space for four adults, with a roomy front row and practical storage options throughout the cabin. The second-row bench seat accommodated five passengers in a pinch, making it a versatile choice for families.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, offering a modern and customizable interface with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Mid-grade models and above included hands-free sliding doors, while the Pinnacle trim added FamCam, an interior monitoring camera with unique features. The Pacifica offered a range of audio systems, including a 20-speaker Harman Kardon option for a premium listening experience.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, six-speaker audio, and smartphone integration as standard. Higher trims upgraded to a 9-inch touchscreen and an 11-speaker JBL audio system. The RAV4 Prime featured advanced technology, including multiple USB ports, a wireless charging pad, and a bird’s-eye view camera system. The available head-up display and ambient illumination added to the tech-savvy appeal of the RAV4.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica included 97 standard 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 it.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 featured Toyota’s Star Safety System and Safety Sense 2.0, offering enhanced vehicle stability control, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and more. Higher trims included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The RAV4 was an IIHS Top Safety Pick, with the RAV4 Prime earning a Top Safety Pick+ designation. The NHTSA awarded the RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid five-star ratings.