2021 INFINITI QX80 vs 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 showcased a blend of Nissan Armada and Infiniti design elements, maintaining a body-on-frame construction that was reminiscent of its Nissan sibling. Its profile, marked by a distinctive roofline and rear window curve, was shared with the Armada, while the front fenders featured similar vents. However, the QX80's front end was distinctly Infiniti, with a grille and headlight design that aligned with other Infiniti SUVs, offering an assertive yet not overly aggressive appearance. Standard LED lighting and large wheels added to its luxury appeal, though the interior, despite its luxurious feel with wood trim and leather upholstery, closely resembled the Armada, potentially disappointing those seeking exclusivity.

In contrast, the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was a minivan that embraced its identity, offering practicality over rugged aesthetics. Despite not being a visual standout, even with the S Appearance Package, it was a unique offering as a plug-in hybrid minivan. The Pacifica Hybrid's interior was comfortable, with quality leather and a spacious design, though its styling appeared softer and more dated compared to newer, more angular designs. The vehicle's pricing was on the higher side, but it offered a significant federal tax credit, making it a more attractive option for those prioritizing efficiency and practicality over style.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 was powered by a 5.6-liter V8 engine producing 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque, paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission. While its power was slightly less than some competitors, it was sufficient for highway overtaking, though the transmission shifts were not as smooth as desired. The QX80's body-on-frame construction provided a comfortable ride, aided by independent suspension and Hydraulic Body Motion Control on Sensory models, though it was less composed in corners. Its off-road capabilities were enhanced by a 4WD drivetrain with low range and a skid plate, and it boasted a towing capacity of 8,500 pounds.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured a plug-in hybrid drivetrain with a 3.6-liter V6 engine and a dual-motor electric drive system, delivering a total of 260 horsepower. The Pacifica Hybrid excelled in efficiency, offering up to 32 miles of electric-only range and an average fuel economy of 37.1 mpg. The transition between electric and gasoline power was seamless, and the regenerative braking system contributed to its efficiency. However, the driving experience was unremarkable, with light steering and a lack of cornering grip, though it handled speed humps impressively well.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 offered a spacious interior with a standard seven-seat configuration, featuring second-row captain’s chairs and an optional eight-seat setup. While the front seats were adjustable, they lacked thigh support for long trips. Passenger space was competitive, and the third row was suitable for adults, though cargo space was limited compared to rivals, with 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row. The center console provided limited storage, and the front-door cupholders were not well-designed for holding drinks securely.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, with three comfortable rows of seats and ample cargo space. It featured triple-zone climate control, quality leather upholstery, and numerous storage solutions, including a large floor tray and a long storage bin behind the center console. The second-row seats were more comfortable than those in a standard Pacifica, though they required removal to maximize cargo space. The third row offered reasonable comfort and additional storage, with 32.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind it, expanding to 140.5 cubic feet with the second-row seats removed.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 came with the Infiniti InTouch dual-screen infotainment system, featuring 8.0-inch and 7.0-inch touchscreens, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 13-speaker Bose audio system. While it offered various controls, the user interface was not intuitive, and the screens were small and difficult to reach. Helpful tech included a Smart Rearview Mirror and an Around View Monitor, enhancing visibility and ease of driving.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was equipped with the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, featuring a 10.1-inch touchscreen with appealing graphics and a user-friendly interface. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The FamCam system allowed parents to monitor rear-seat passengers, and the available rear-seat entertainment system offered Amazon Fire TV. However, the voice recognition technology was inconsistent, and the Harman Kardon sound system required adjustments for optimal sound quality.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with five stars for side crash tests and three stars for rollover. It came standard with adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and automatic emergency braking, among other features, providing a comprehensive safety package.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. It included a comprehensive suite of driver-assist and collision-avoidance features, though its adaptive cruise control required refinement. The Pacifica also introduced a rear-seat reminder system to prevent leaving important items inside the vehicle.