2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2021 Lincoln Aviator

The 2021 Lincoln Aviator stood out by not mimicking its competitors' styles. Instead, it adopted the successful design language of the larger Navigator, resulting in a sharp-looking vehicle with crisp lines and chrome accents. Inside, the Aviator differentiated itself from its Ford counterpart with a cabin defined by comfort and warmth, featuring soft-touch materials and a 10.1-inch touchscreen. The piano button shifter and soothing chimes added to the luxurious feel.

In contrast, the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid embraced its minivan identity, offering a practical and efficient design. Despite its rounded and flowing exterior, which some might find dated, the interior was functional and comfortable. The black Nappa premium leather and triple-zone automatic climate control ensured a pleasant experience. However, the Pacifica's styling did not attempt to hide its minivan nature, focusing instead on utility and efficiency.

The 2021 Lincoln Aviator offered a robust performance with its 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine, producing 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. This power was managed by a 10-speed automatic transmission, available in rear-wheel drive (RWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). The Grand Touring and Grand Touring Black Label trims featured a plug-in hybrid configuration, boosting output to 494 hp and 630 lb-ft of torque, with a 21-mile electric-only range. The Aviator excelled in highway driving but struggled with city maneuverability due to its size and weight.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine paired with a dual-motor electric drive system, delivered a total system output of 260 horsepower. The 16-kWh battery pack allowed for up to 32 miles of electric-only driving. The Pacifica Hybrid never felt underpowered, even when fully loaded, and offered a smooth transition between electric and gasoline power. It achieved an average fuel economy of 37.1 mpg during testing. However, the driving experience was unremarkable, with light steering, grabby brakes, and limited cornering grip.

The 2021 Lincoln Aviator provided 18.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third-row seats, expandable to 41.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a total of 77.7 cubic feet with all rear seats down. The second-row captain's chairs and digital control panel added to the comfort and convenience. However, the power-button door releases raised concerns about functionality if the battery died.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, offering 32.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 87.5 cubic feet with the third row folded, and up to 140.5 cubic feet with the second-row seats removed. The second-row seats were more comfortable than the standard Stow n’ Go chairs, and the interior featured ample storage options. However, removing the second-row seats to maximize cargo space was cumbersome.

The 2021 Lincoln Aviator featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen with the intuitive Sync 3 infotainment system, offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The fully digital instrument panel and optional head-up display (HUD) provided clear and easy-to-read information. The system's layout and functionality were user-friendly, enhancing the overall driving experience.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid came with the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, also featuring a 10.1-inch touchscreen. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa compatibility, and connected services. The FamCam overhead camera system was a useful addition for parents. However, the voice recognition technology was inconsistent, and the Harman Kardon premium sound system required adjustments for optimal sound quality.

The 2021 Lincoln Aviator was well-equipped with standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Co-Pilot 360 Plus package added reverse automatic braking and adaptive cruise control. The Aviator earned top marks from the NHTSA and IIHS, including a Top Safety Pick accolade.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including a rear-seat reminder system. However, its adaptive cruise control needed refinement, particularly in recognizing lane departures and moderating speed. The Pacifica 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.