2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2021 Audi Q5

The 2021 Audi Q5 was a sharp-looking crossover SUV that embodied the Audi design language while maintaining its unique character. It featured an expressive front with LED headlights and a prominent Audi Singleframe grille, emphasizing width with horizontal elements. The body showcased crisp character lines, and the rear was marked by bold, large taillights. The Q5 exuded a classy, modern appearance with exceptional fit and finish. The plug-in hybrid version included S-Line trim pieces and enhancements, offering a more refined look with standard 19-inch wheels or optional 20-inch wheels.

Inside, the Q5 maintained a classy and modern aesthetic, packed with technology yet uncluttered. Controls were smartly grouped, and the design was cohesive and pleasing. High-quality materials like real wood and metal were used, with crisp lines where different materials met. The 10.1-inch touchscreen was strategically placed for the driver’s line of sight. The second row was well-appointed, featuring standard leather upholstery throughout.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, while not a visual standout, was a practical choice for those needing a plug-in hybrid minivan. Despite its minivan image, it offered the convenience of sliding side doors and a spacious interior. The Pacifica Hybrid was not cheap, with the base model starting at $55,995, excluding a steep destination charge. The Limited trim, with additional features, brought the price to $64,960, though federal and provincial EV rebates could make it more affordable.

The interior was comfortable, with black Nappa premium leather and a rounded, flowing design. However, it appeared soft and dated compared to more modern, architectural styles. The Pacifica Hybrid didn’t hide its minivan identity, focusing instead on practicality and efficiency. It offered a unique plug-in hybrid option in a segment with limited competition, making it a compelling choice for those prioritizing efficiency and practicality.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV enhanced the driving experience with an additional 114 horsepower and 96 pound-feet of torque from a 14.1-kWh battery, resulting in a total output of 362 hp and 373 lb-ft of torque. This setup provided impressive acceleration, reaching 0 to 100 km/h in 5.3 seconds, and offered fuel efficiency of 4.7 litres-equivalent per 100 km combined. The Q5 PHEV could be recharged overnight with household current or in 2.4 hours with Level 2 service. It featured a seven-speed S Tronic automatic transmission with full-time Quattro AWD and various driving modes for battery management. The Q5’s handling was sporty yet comfortable, with minimal body roll and powerful braking.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured a plug-in hybrid drivetrain based on a 3.6-litre V6 engine paired with a dual-motor electric drive system, producing 260 horsepower. The electric drive system provided immediate torque, and the Pacifica never felt underpowered, even when fully loaded. It could travel up to 51 km on electric power alone, suitable for daily commutes and errands. The regenerative braking system contributed to an average fuel economy of 6.3 litres per 100 km. The Pacifica Hybrid’s powertrain was smooth and efficient, though the driving experience was unremarkable, with light steering and a lack of cornering grip.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV offered smart packaging, with the battery pack located under the luggage compartment floor, preserving cargo space. It provided 710 litres of space behind the second row and 1,503 litres with the second row folded. The second row offered reasonable legroom and ample headroom and shoulder room, accommodating two adults comfortably. The front seats were supportive and adjustable, with heating and optional ventilation. The interior featured practical storage solutions and a well-organized layout.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, with three comfortable rows of seats and ample cargo space. It featured triple-zone automatic climate control, quality leather upholstery, and heated and ventilated front seats. Storage options were abundant, with various bins and trays throughout the cabin. The second-row seats were more comfortable than standard Stow n’ Go seats, though they required removal for maximum cargo space. The third-row seat was comfortable for two adults or three children, with cupholders and USB ports. The Pacifica Hybrid offered 914 litres of cargo space behind the third row and up to 3,978 litres with the second-row seats removed.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV featured Audi’s MMI 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, complemented by a 12.3-inch HD instrument cluster with customizable views. The system included a Bang & Olufsen 3D audio system, wireless Apple CarPlay, and wired Android Auto, offering a high level of customization and quality sound.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was equipped with the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, featuring a 10.1-inch touchscreen with appealing graphics and a user-friendly interface. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and simultaneous Bluetooth pairing for two devices. The FamCam overhead camera system was a useful feature for parents. The Pacifica Hybrid also offered a 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, though the default sound quality required adjustment. The rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV was available but not essential if passengers had their own devices.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but the gasoline model received top ratings, except for headlights. Safety features included six airbags, an anti-lock braking system, electronic stability control, and various driver-assistance features like Audi Pre Sense front and adaptive cruise control.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid claimed to offer more standard safety features than any other vehicle, including a rear-seat reminder system. It had adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and lane-keeping assist, though the adaptive cruise required refinement. The Pacifica earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with a four-star rating for frontal-impact protection.