2021 Chrysler Pacifica vs 2022 Buick Enclave

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica underwent a significant mid-generation refresh, resulting in a more muscular exterior design. The new hexagonal grille and standard LED headlights contributed to a robust front-end appearance, moving away from the elegance of previous models. The rear featured an all-LED taillamp spanning the width of the vehicle, with the Chrysler wing badge at its center. Inside, the Pacifica offered a premium feel, 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, added to the upscale ambiance, while sound-deadening technology ensured a quiet ride.

The 2022 Buick Enclave, as part of its mid-cycle refresh, received several exterior styling enhancements, including a new grille and updated headlamps and taillamps. The Avenir trim featured unique design elements and 20-inch wheels. Inside, the Enclave's restyled center console incorporated new push-button gears and upgraded materials. The Avenir trim offered standard climate-controlled front seats and heated second-row captain's chairs. The Enclave's cabin was spacious, with ample room for passengers in all three rows. The vehicle's quiet ride was enhanced by Buick's QuietTuning and active noise cancellation technology, providing a serene driving experience.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica offered two powertrain options: a 3.6-liter V6 engine with 287 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, and a hybrid version with a V6 engine, dual-motor electrically variable transmission, and a 16-kilowatt-hour battery, delivering 260 horsepower. The hybrid model achieved 82 MPGe and 30 mpg combined, with an all-electric range of over 30 miles. The traditional V6 Pacifica provided 19 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, with AWD models slightly reducing these figures. The AWD system activated on-demand, enhancing traction in various conditions.

The 2022 Buick Enclave featured a single powertrain option: a 3.6-liter V6 engine with direct injection, producing 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The Enclave's maximum towing capacity was 5,000 pounds. The vehicle's ride quality was enhanced by the Avenir Technology package, which included a premium ride suspension and continuously variable real-time chassis damping. The Enclave's AWD system and 7.5 inches of ground clearance provided confidence in light off-road conditions. Despite its size, the Enclave offered responsive acceleration and a smooth ride, with the engine delivering pleasant sounds at wide-open throttle.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica was designed with family life in mind, offering spacious seating and ample storage. The minivan featured power-sliding rear doors, three-zone climate control, and Stow 'n Go seating for versatile cargo options. The Pacifica Pinnacle provided best-in-class total storage of 227.6 liters. The interior was thoughtfully designed, with under-console storage for second-row passengers and a padded center console lid for front occupants.

The 2022 Buick Enclave provided easy ingress and egress, with excellent visibility and comfortable seating. The Enclave's cabin was roomy, accommodating six full-size adults comfortably. The second-row captain's chairs facilitated access to the third row, which offered ample space for passengers. The restyled center console featured push-button transmission gears and a covered compartment with cupholders. The Enclave's cargo space was generous, with 23.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 97.4 cubic feet with all seats folded.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, offering a modern and customizable interface with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Pinnacle model included FamCam, an interior monitoring camera with unique features. The Pacifica offered a range of audio options, including a 20-speaker Harman Kardon system. The second-row in-seat entertainment system remained an option, with additional games available.

The 2022 Buick Enclave's infotainment system included an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Premium and Avenir trims added navigation and a 10-speaker Bose audio system. The Enclave's infotainment system supported pairing up to 10 devices, with a built-in WiFi hotspot. The vehicle also featured a following-distance indicator, HD rear vision camera, and Teen Driver technology. Notable available features included adaptive cruise control and a head-up display.

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, and automatic emergency braking. The Pacifica received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Buick Enclave made the Buick Driver Confidence Plus package standard, including automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assistance. Premium trim added enhanced automatic emergency braking and a surround-view camera. The Enclave received a four-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA and "Good" ratings in most IIHS crash tests.