2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L was a new addition to the Jeep lineup, distinct from the existing Grand Cherokee. It was an extended-length version of the upcoming 2022 Grand Cherokee, featuring a third-row seat and increased cargo space. Despite the potential confusion of its model year designation, the Grand Cherokee L was expected to sell well due to its appealing styling, reminiscent of the more expensive Wagoneer models. The SUV was instantly recognizable as a Jeep, with its signature seven-slot grille and trapezoidal wheel arches, and was available in multiple trim levels ranging from Laredo to Summit Reserve, with prices starting at $36,995.

Our test vehicle, a Summit trim with 4WD, was priced at $64,770, including options like metallic paint and a 19-speaker McIntosh audio system. While some interior materials did not meet the high price expectations, the Summit trim offered quilted leather and real wood trim, along with a host of technology features. Overall, the redesigned interior was a significant improvement over the previous model.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, despite being a minivan, offered a unique package with its plug-in hybrid drivetrain. It combined a 3.6-liter V6 engine with a dual-motor electric drive system, providing a total output of 260 horsepower. The Pacifica Hybrid could travel up to 32 miles on electric power alone, making it ideal for short commutes and errands. The van's interior was comfortable, with quality leather upholstery and a triple-zone climate control system. However, its styling appeared soft and dated compared to more modern designs.

Our test vehicle, a Limited trim with additional features, was priced at $57,680. The Pacifica Hybrid's driving experience was efficient but unexciting, with light steering and unremarkable regenerative brakes. Despite this, the powertrain's seamless transition between electric and gasoline modes was impressive. The Pacifica Hybrid excelled in practicality, offering ample cargo space and comfortable seating for up to seven passengers.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L came standard with a 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered both RWD and 4WD options, with a maximum towing capacity of 6,200 pounds. The EPA estimated fuel economy at 21 mpg combined. An optional 5.7-liter V8 engine, available only with certain trims and 4WD, increased power to 357 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque, boosting towing capacity to 7,200 pounds but reducing fuel economy to 17 mpg combined.

Our test vehicle featured the V6 engine and 4WD, providing brisk acceleration but with noticeable engine noise at high revs. The eight-speed automatic transmission was generally smooth, though it sometimes resisted downshifts to improve fuel economy. The Grand Cherokee L averaged 17.8 mpg during testing, below expectations. The SUV offered various driving modes, including Sport and off-road settings, with the Quadra-Lift air suspension providing up to 10.9 inches of ground clearance.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid utilized a plug-in hybrid drivetrain with a 3.6-liter V6 engine and a dual-motor electric drive system, delivering 260 horsepower. The van could travel up to 32 miles on electric power alone, with the gas engine assisting when needed. The regenerative braking system helped recharge the battery, contributing to an average fuel economy of 37.1 mpg during testing. The Pacifica Hybrid's powertrain was smooth and efficient, with a nearly imperceptible transition between electric and gasoline modes. However, the driving experience was unremarkable, with light steering and limited cornering grip.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered a comfortable interior, especially in the Summit trim, with heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, and a four-zone climate control system. However, the dashboard vents were small, making it difficult to cool the cabin quickly. The second-row captain's chairs provided ample legroom and comfort, with manual sunshades for added convenience. The third-row seats were surprisingly comfortable for adults, and the SUV offered 17.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 84.6 cubic feet with all seats folded.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, with three comfortable rows of seats and ample cargo space. The van featured triple-zone climate control, quality leather upholstery, and heated and ventilated front seats. Storage options were plentiful, with various bins and shelves throughout the cabin. The second-row seats were more comfortable than the standard Pacifica's Stow n' Go seats, though they did not fold into the floor. The Pacifica Hybrid offered 32.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 140.5 cubic feet with the second-row seats removed.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, available with an 8.4-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen. The system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Alexa compatibility, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. Our test vehicle included a 19-speaker McIntosh audio system, which delivered excellent sound quality. Additional features included a digital instrumentation panel, a digital rearview mirror, and a Fam Cam rear-seat monitoring system.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid also utilized the Uconnect 5 system, with a 10.1-inch touchscreen and a user-friendly interface. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The Pacifica Hybrid offered a 20-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, though the sound quality required adjustment. The van also featured an available rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV, and a surround-view camera system for added convenience.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L introduced Active Driving Assist, a hands-on driving-assistance system combining adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance. The system was effective but not flawless, with some artificial steering feedback. The SUV also offered Intersection Collision Assist and a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features. Crash-test ratings were unavailable at the time of review.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted an extensive list of standard safety features, including a rear-seat reminder system. It offered adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and lane-keeping assist, though the adaptive cruise control required refinement. The Pacifica Hybrid earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with a four-star rating for frontal-impact protection.