2021 Lincoln Navigator vs 2021 Chrysler Pacifica

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica underwent a mid-generation refresh that gave it a more muscular aesthetic, moving away from the elegance of previous years. The new hexagonal grille and standard LED headlights contributed to a streamlined front end, while the rear featured an all-LED taillamp running the width of the model, with the Chrysler wing badge at its center. The S Appearance Package added darkened features and black accents, enhancing the van's robust look. Inside, the Pacifica balanced practicality and luxury, especially in the Pinnacle trim, which boasted quilted leather seats, suede center row pillows, and Beber floor mats. The flat dashboard, anchored by a 10.1-inch touchscreen, combined with sound-deadening technology, made for a quiet and upscale cabin experience.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator, in contrast, exuded elegance and understatement despite its massive size. The exterior featured simple rectilinear shapes, a body-color grille, and full-width taillights, with splashes of chrome for a classy touch. The interior impressed with seven color palettes and high-quality materials, including layered wood trim and a floating center console. The Perfect Position seats offered 30 different adjustments, ensuring comfort for all passengers. The Navigator's cabin was plush and quiet, with a high driving position providing excellent visibility. However, the ride quality was less refined compared to competitors like the Cadillac Escalade.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica offered two powertrain options: a traditional 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 287 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, and a V6 hybrid engine paired with a dual-motor electrically variable transmission, achieving 260 horsepower. The base Touring and Touring L trims came standard with the V6 engine, while the Limited and Pinnacle trims offered either all-wheel drive (AWD) or the hybrid powertrain. The AWD system, new for 2021, activated on-demand based on driving conditions, enhancing traction and stability. The Pacifica Hybrid boasted an all-electric range of over 30 miles and a total range of more than 500 miles, delivering 82 MPGe and 30 mpg combined. The traditional V6 Pacifica achieved 19 mpg in the city, 28 mpg on the highway, and 22 mpg combined, with slightly lower figures for AWD models.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator featured a powerful twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 450 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, the Navigator offered either rear-wheel drive (RWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD). The 4WD system was smooth and responsive, with a towing capacity of 8,300 pounds for 4WD models and 8,700 pounds for RWD models. Fuel economy was less impressive, averaging in the teens and fitting the EPA-estimated 17 mpg combined rating. The Navigator's adaptive dampers provided a decent ride, but it lacked the refinement of competitors like the Cadillac Escalade. The steering and brakes were less precise, but the Navigator's overall power and highway refinement were commendable.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica was designed with family life in mind, offering spacious seating and practical storage solutions. The front seats provided ample space and a sense of togetherness, with a padded center console lid replacing traditional armrests. Standard features included power-sliding rear doors, three-zone climate control, and Stow 'n Go seats for easy storage. The second-row under-console storage and Stow 'n Go third-row bench seat added to the van's practicality. The Pacifica Pinnacle offered best-in-class total storage of 227.6 liters, making family travel convenient and comfortable.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator offered a spacious interior, capable of accommodating six adults comfortably. The boxy design provided ample cargo space, with 19 cubic feet behind the third row, 57 behind the second, and 103 in total. The long-wheelbase Navigator L offered even more storage. The rear glass opened separately from the tailgate, adding convenience. The Navigator Reserve featured heated second-row seats and a three-zone climate system, but lacked some advanced features found in competitors. The front seats were highly adjustable and comfortable, with a high driving position for excellent visibility. However, parking the large SUV could be challenging despite the 360-degree cameras.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, offering a modern and customizable interface. The system was responsive and easy to use, with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The second-row in-seat entertainment system remained an option, with additional games for 2021. The Pinnacle model included FamCam, an interior monitoring camera with advanced features. The sound system options ranged from a standard six-speaker setup to a premium 20-speaker Harman Kardon system, providing a high-quality listening experience.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator's technology felt somewhat dated compared to competitors. The 10-inch touchscreen was smaller and less advanced than the multi-piece displays in the Cadillac Escalade. The Navigator's infotainment system was intuitive but slow, with no wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. The 20-speaker Revel Ultima stereo was good but not exceptional. However, the Navigator offered onboard 4G WiFi, wireless device charging, and a smartwatch app. The rear entertainment system included Roku media streaming and various connectivity options. Drive mode animations added a touch of elegance to the instrument panel.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica came standard with 97 safety features, increasing to 100 in the Pinnacle trim. Key safety technologies included forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, rain-sensing wipers, automatic high beams, advanced brake assist, and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection. The Pacifica received a five-star overall rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator also received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with high marks in most tests. However, it lacked knee airbags and offered optional inflatable rear seat belts. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and auto high beams. Adaptive cruise control was optional, but the Navigator's self-steering capabilities were less advanced than some competitors.