Despite the increasing preference for SUVs as family vehicles, minivans are still the go-to option for anyone looking for comfort, space, and practicality without minding the apparent stigma of being seen driving one. Newer minivan designs from manufacturing companies like Kia, Toyota, Chrysler, and Honda are injecting life back into the almost-abandoned minivans and continuing to meet the mobility needs of many families. In their recent updated designs, Chrysler and Toyota introduced minivans that featured a hybrid powertrain, a deeper dive into technology, and stylish exterior and interior furnishings. These two hybrid minivans are the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid and the Toyota Sienna Hybrid. Each one has unique features, but which is the better choice?
Both Models Have Strong Hybrid Systems
The Chrysler Pacifica's powertrain is a 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine mated to two electric motors. The total system output is pegged at 260 horsepower, enough to powerfully steer the minivan while still delivering a decent fuel economy. The 240-volt battery charges in two hours, and the minivan can drive on its electric power alone for approximately 32 miles. It delivers 82 MPGe and 30 MPG combined. On the other hand, the Toyota Sienna comes with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine connected to two electric motors, generating 245 horsepower output from the combined system. It's more efficient and has better fuel economy than the Pacifica, as it yields up to 35 MPG combined.
Both Are Good-Looking Minivans
From the minivans' exterior designs, you can easily tell that both Chrysler and Toyota are in a quest to make the best impression on their prospective customers, even those who traditionally classify all minivans as ugly. At a glance, you can immediately identify its big grille on the front and the strong, smooth contouring on the fascia that reflects light differently, no matter your angle of view or time of day. The rear adopts a sporty design, with the tail lights taking on a beautiful design. Chrysler's design brings out a more luxurious feel with better curves on its body. Unlike the 2020 Chrysler Pacifica, which featured a narrow grille and highly placed standard headlights, the 2021 Chrysler Pacifica embraces a larger grille that gives it a handsome look. The taillights also get a new look, courtesy of an LED tail light bar.
The Sienna And The Pacifica Excel On The Inside
Minivans have always excelled at providing enough sitting space for many family members and friends and versatility when carrying more luggage. The Toyota Sienna isn't that spacious at the back, but the front makes up for it. The center console adopts a bridge-like design with a space below it to allow passengers to place larger items like handbags under it while also providing other storage compartments like cup holders. The seats on the second row offer a 25-inch fore-and-aft sliding function, allowing you to slide it back to as much legroom as you need, therefore enjoying more comfort. The third row easily flips forward and pulls back into the rear storage to allow more cargo space whenever needed. While the second row doesn't pull back, it can flip forward and create more space for storage. The seats are made of a soft material, yet tough enough to withstand weather spills, aggressive child play, and the installation of child seats. The material varies from synthetic to leather, depending on your personal preference.
Similarly, the Chrysler Pacifica offers an impressive amount of interior- and cargo space. It boasts 32.3 cubic feet of space at the back when all the seats are up and 140.5 cubic feet with the third- and second rows folded. The Pacifica's interior is well-thought-out and beautifully designed to give it that ultimate luxurious look. There are enough cupholders and storage spaces all around the cabin and cup holders, the Chrysler Pacifica has a space for all the little things you need for your trip. All the upholstery options, the leather, synthetic, and Nappa, give a beautiful finish and an ultimate touch of class. This makes the Chrysler Pacifica a great option for someone who loves some luxury while enjoying their family minivan.
Tech Features At Its Best
Chrysler and Toyota have put their best foot forward to make the most of the available technology advancement options on their new minivan designs. The Toyota Sienna comes with a rear seat entertainment 11.6-inch screen that allows you to connect to another device through HDMI, cast your device's screen, a remote for easier access, and wireless headphone sets for better sound output. For better safety, the Sienna is equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite that includes pedestrian detection and automatic emergency braking, lane control, adaptive cruise control, full-speed dynamic cruise control, and automatic high beams. On the other hand, the Chrysler Pacifica features a 10.1-inch Uconnect touchscreen with beautiful graphics, instant responses, and a friendly user interface. The Uconnect Theatre family package comes with the rear system in place, which includes a flip-up touchscreen at the rear seat and a roof-mounted screen for everyone to enjoy. The Pacifica is equipped with all the safety functions of the Sienna, plus blind-spot monitors, parking monitors, and a surround-view camera system.
Price: The Sienna Beats The Pacifica
The Toyota Sienna starts at $34,000 and goes up to $48,000 for the top trim. The Chrysler Pacifica starts at $43,600 and can go as high as $54,500. And while comfort, space, and versatility are key considerations when choosing a minivan for your family, a touch of luxury and innovative tech will improve your experience. With that being said, the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid is a better proposition overall, but the Toyota Sienna isn't far behind. And, with the price difference between the two, it all boils down to your preference, needs, and budget.