2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2021 Land Rover Defender

The 2021 Land Rover Defender carried forward the legacy of its predecessors, which dated back to the original Land Rover Series I from 1948. The Defender's design was a nod to its heritage, with modern touches that brought it into the contemporary era. It featured half-round LED headlights, a structural-looking grille, and flat-topped fenders reminiscent of earlier models. The interior was robust yet luxurious, with exposed structural elements and high-quality materials like real metal and leather. The Defender's design was both functional and stylish, maintaining its rugged appeal while offering modern comforts.

In contrast, the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was a minivan that embraced its identity without trying to disguise it as something else. While it didn't boast the rugged aesthetics of an SUV, it offered practicality and efficiency. The Pacifica Hybrid's design was more about function than form, with a focus on providing ample space and comfort for families. Its interior was well-appointed, with premium leather upholstery and thoughtful storage solutions. The Pacifica Hybrid was not about making a bold statement but rather about delivering a reliable and efficient transportation solution for families.

The 2021 Land Rover Defender was equipped with two powertrain options in the U.S. The base model featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine producing 296 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. A more powerful option was the turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six mild-hybrid engine, delivering 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. The Defender's off-road capabilities were impressive, with features like full-time 4WD, Terrain Response, and optional Terrain Response 2. It boasted a maximum towing capacity of 8,200 pounds and a payload capacity of over 1,700 pounds. The Defender's performance was versatile, excelling both on and off the road.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, on the other hand, was powered by a plug-in hybrid drivetrain based on a 3.6-liter V6 engine paired with a dual-motor electric drive system. It produced a total system 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. It offered a smooth transition between electric and gasoline power, with regenerative braking to enhance efficiency. While it wasn't designed for thrilling performance, the Pacifica Hybrid excelled in providing a comfortable and efficient driving experience, achieving an average fuel economy of 37.1 mpg during testing.

The 2021 Land Rover Defender's unibody platform, shared with other Land Rover models, provided a solid foundation for both on-road and off-road performance. Its independent multi-link air suspension contributed to a comfortable ride and enhanced off-road capabilities. The Defender offered flexible seating options, including a jump seat between the front seats and an optional third row in the long-wheelbase 110 model. Cargo space was generous, with up to 78.8 cubic feet available in the 110 model.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in interior space and utility, offering three rows of comfortable seating and ample cargo capacity. It featured triple-zone automatic climate control, quality leather upholstery, and thoughtful storage solutions. The second-row seats were more comfortable than those in the standard Pacifica, and the third-row seat provided reasonable comfort for passengers. The Pacifica Hybrid offered 32.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 87.5 cubic feet with the third row folded. Removing the second-row seats created a massive 140.5 cubic feet of cargo space, making it a versatile choice for families.

The 2021 Land Rover Defender featured Land Rover's Electronic Vehicle Architecture 2.0, allowing for remote software updates. It was equipped with the Pivi Pro infotainment system, featuring a 10-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Defender offered multiple camera views, including a "transparent hood" view for off-roading. Audio options ranged from a standard six-speaker system to a premium Meridian sound system.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid came with the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, featuring a 10.1-inch touchscreen display. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The FamCam overhead camera system allowed parents to monitor rear-seat passengers. The Pacifica Hybrid also featured a 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system and an available rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV. The surround-view camera system and parking assist features added convenience and safety.

The 2021 Land Rover Defender came with a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including a perimeter alarm, front airbags, electronic traction control, and dynamic stability control. It also offered advanced features like blind spot assist, lane-keep assist, and a 360-degree parking aid. While it hadn't been rated by NHTSA or IIHS, the Defender underwent extensive durability testing to ensure its safety and reliability.

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