2021 Chrysler Pacifica vs 2022 Volkswagen Atlas

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica underwent a mid-generation refresh that gave it a more muscular aesthetic. The new hexagonal grille and standard LED headlights contributed to a streamlined front end, moving away from the elegance of previous models. The rear featured a new all-LED taillamp running the width of the vehicle, with the Chrysler wing badge at its center. Six new wheel designs and the S Appearance Package, which included darkened features and black accents, were also introduced.

Inside, the Pacifica offered a blend of practicality and luxury, especially in the Pinnacle trim. The flat dashboard, anchored by a 10.1-inch touchscreen, was complemented by Piano Black plastic trim, wood accents, and real metal surrounds. Quilted leather seats, suede center row pillows, and Beber floor mats added to the upscale feel. The doors had a well-weighted feel, and sound deadening technology kept road noise at bay.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas carried over with minor modifications after numerous updates in 2021. The lineup was simplified to SE, SE with Technology, SEL, SEL R-Line, SEL R-Line Black, and SEL Premium R-Line trims. Most models had more standard features than the previous year. The SEL Premium R-Line trim included 21-inch wheels with a machined finish, enhancing the SUV's upscale look. However, the interior materials were crafted to a low cost point, with hard, shiny, and slippery plastic being a notable downside.

The Atlas's interior was roomy and comfortable, seating seven people with ease. The step-in height was relatively low, making it easy to get in and out. The test vehicle had rear side-window sunshades and numerous storage areas, though many were unlined, causing unwanted noise. Cargo space was exceptional, with 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 55.5 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 96.8 cubic feet with the second row down.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica offered two powertrain options: a traditional 3.6-liter V6 engine with 287 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, and a V6 hybrid engine paired with a dual-motor electrically variable transmission, achieving 260 horsepower from the engine and 198 horsepower from its motors. The base Touring and Touring L trims came standard with the V6 engine, while the Limited and Pinnacle trims offered either all-wheel drive (AWD) or the hybrid powertrain.

AWD was a new addition to the Pacifica lineup, acting on-demand based on various driving conditions. The system deactivated automatically to improve fuel efficiency when not needed. The Pacifica Hybrid had an all-electric range of over 30 miles and a total range of over 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 seeing a slight decrease in fuel efficiency.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered a standard turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The turbo-four's maximum towing capacity was 2,000 pounds, with an EPA fuel economy rating of 22 to 23 mpg in combined driving. However, premium fuel was required to achieve these outputs.

The optional 3.6-liter V6 engine, standard on higher trims, produced 276 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. It could tow up to 5,000 pounds but had a gritty note and granular feel, with fuel economy estimates of 19 to 20 mpg in combined driving. The Atlas offered Eco, Normal, Sport, and Individual driving modes, with 4Motion AWD adding Active Control calibrations for various conditions. Ground clearance was modest at 7.1 inches for the turbocharged Atlas and 7.5 inches for the V6.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica was designed with family life in mind, offering spacious seating and practical storage solutions. The power-sliding rear doors, three-zone climate control, and Stow 'n Go seats were standard features. The second-row under-console storage and Stow 'n Go third-row bench seat added to the convenience. The Pacifica Pinnacle offered best-in-class total storage of 227.6 liters, making family travel a breeze.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas had a roomy interior with comfortable seats, accommodating seven people with ease. The step-in height was low, and the test vehicle had rear side-window sunshades. Cargo space was exceptional, with 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 55.5 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 96.8 cubic feet with the second row down. However, many storage areas were unlined, causing unwanted noise.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, offering a modern and customizable experience. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, and the second-row in-seat entertainment system remained an option. A six-speaker sound system was standard, with three upgrades available, including a 20-speaker Harman Kardon system. The Pinnacle model included FamCam, an interior monitoring camera with advanced features.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas included the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit instrument cluster as standard, with an 8-inch display on lower trims and a 10.25-inch display on higher trims. The Atlas SE had a 6.5-inch touchscreen, while other trims featured the MIB3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Car-Net connected services. The SEL Premium R-Line had a 12-speaker Fender premium sound system. However, the user experience was hindered by slow loading times and a cumbersome tuning process.

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, rain-sensing wipers, automatic high beams, advanced brake assist, and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection. The Pacifica received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered an impressive list of safety features, including automatic post-collision braking, Front Assist, Side Assist, and Rear Traffic Alert. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, Travel Assist, Emergency Assist, and adaptive front lighting. However, the Lane Assist technology had issues with old construction markings and exit ramps. The Atlas received four-star ratings for frontal-impact tests from the NHTSA and did not earn a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS.