2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2021 Chrysler Pacifica

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS, a continuation of the third generation introduced in 2020, was a luxurious SUV that offered a blend of practicality and opulence. Originally launched as the GL-Class in 2006, it was intended to replace the G-Class but instead found its niche among affluent families seeking a more comfortable alternative to the Navigator and Escalade. The GLS featured a sleek design with softened angles and a futuristic interior dominated by a massive digital screen. Available in three trims—GLS 450, GLS 580, and the high-performance AMG GLS 63—the GLS offered a range of standard features, including remote keyless entry, nine USB ports, and a 13-speaker Burmester sound system. Optional packages allowed for further customization, adding features like ventilated seats and rear-seat controls.

In contrast, the 2021 Chrysler Pacifica underwent a mid-generation refresh that enhanced its exterior with a more muscular aesthetic, thanks to new LED headlights and a hexagonal grille. The Pacifica maintained its sophisticated design, with a new all-LED taillamp and six new wheel designs. Inside, the Pacifica offered a premium experience, especially in the Pinnacle trim, which featured quilted leather seats, a 10.1-inch touchscreen, and upscale materials. The Pacifica balanced practicality with luxury, providing ample storage and a well-weighted feel. Its sound-deadening technology ensured a quiet ride, making it a standout in the minivan segment.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a range of powerful engines, starting with the GLS 450's twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six, producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The GLS 580 upgraded to a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8, delivering 483 hp and 516 lb-ft. The AMG GLS 63, with its hand-crafted 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, boasted an impressive 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. All models featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and Mercedes' 4MATIC all-wheel drive, with the AMG version achieving a 0-60 mph time of just 4.1 seconds. The GLS's adaptive air suspension and multiple drive modes provided a smooth and agile driving experience, even on rough roads.

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 hybrid version combining a V6 engine with a dual-motor electrically variable transmission, achieving 260 horsepower. The Pacifica introduced all-wheel drive for the first time in 16 years, with an on-demand system that activated in various conditions. The hybrid model offered an all-electric range of over 30 miles and a total range of more than 500 miles, with fuel efficiency ratings of 82 MPGe and 30 mpg combined. The traditional V6 achieved 19 mpg city and 28 mpg highway, with slightly lower numbers for the AWD version.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS provided spacious seating for up to seven passengers, with optional second-row captain's chairs reducing capacity to six. The first and second rows offered ample headroom and legroom, while the third row was suitable for adults. The GLS boasted 17.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 42.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 87.4 cubic feet with both rear rows down. The interior featured numerous storage compartments, including a large center console and in-door bins.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica was designed with family life in mind, offering spacious seating and ample storage. The front seats provided a sense of togetherness, with a padded center console lid replacing traditional armrests. The Pacifica featured power-sliding rear doors, three-zone climate control, and Stow 'n Go seating for versatile cargo options. The second-row storage included a sliding bin for easy access to essentials. The Pacifica's cargo area was generous, with best-in-class total storage of 227.6 liters, making it ideal for family travel.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system, with a large touch screen and a trackpad for easy navigation. The system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though a USB-C cable was required for connection. The voice-control system responded to "Mercedes" or "Hey Mercedes," allowing for complex commands. The digital dash extended to the instrument panel, with touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel for control. While there was a learning curve, the technology was comprehensive and user-friendly once mastered.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica's Uconnect 5 infotainment system was modern and customizable, with a clean design and quick responsiveness. It included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though a head-up display was absent. The second-row entertainment system offered games and multiple ports for personal devices. The Pacifica's sound system options ranged from a standard six-speaker setup to a premium 20-speaker Harman Kardon system. The Pinnacle model featured FamCam, an interior monitoring camera with unique features like a rear-facing child seat view.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with numerous driver-assistance features, including Active Brake Assist, forward-collision avoidance, and blind-spot monitoring. Additional safety tech included lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and a following-distance indicator. The GLS also featured a full array of airbags, traction control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica offered 97 standard safety features, increasing to 100 in the Pinnacle trim. Key technologies included forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. The Pacifica received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though the IIHS had not yet rated the model.