2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe

The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe offered a variety of trims, each with distinct styling elements that set them apart. The base LS and LT trims featured different grille patterns, while the RST trim boasted a sporty, blacked-out appearance with 22-inch wheels. The Z71 trim was designed for off-roading, with a unique front end, red tow hooks, and all-terrain tires. The Premier trim added chrome accents and polished wheels, and the High Country trim featured a luxurious chrome bar grille and bright-finished 22-inch wheels. The Tahoe's design was characterized by its dominant grille and standard LED headlights, with a more expressive rear design compared to its predecessor. The interior focused on a larger 10.2-inch infotainment screen, though the control layout was somewhat compromised. The Z71 trim we tested included numerous upgrades, resulting in a price of $80,293, and offered a quality interior with exposed stitching and soft-touch surfaces.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, while not a standout in terms of exterior design, provided a practical and efficient package for transporting up to seven people. The minivan's styling was softer and more rounded compared to the more architectural designs gaining popularity. Despite this, the Pacifica Hybrid's interior was comfortable, with black Nappa leather and a range of features like triple-zone climate control and a panoramic sunroof. The Pacifica Hybrid Limited trim we tested included additional features like the S Appearance Package and a Uconnect Theater rear-seat entertainment system, bringing the price to $64,960. The Pacifica Hybrid's interior was spacious and functional, with ample storage and comfortable seating, though the second-row seats did not offer the Stow n’ Go feature due to the battery placement.

The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe offered three engine options, including a standard 5.3-litre V8 with 355 horsepower and a 6.2-litre V8 exclusive to the High Country trim, delivering 420 horsepower. A turbocharged 3.0-litre diesel engine was also available, except for the Z71 trim. The Tahoe's 10-speed automatic transmission powered the rear wheels, with four-wheel drive available on higher trims. The Z71 trim included off-road features like a two-speed transfer case and hill descent control. The Tahoe's independent rear suspension improved ride quality and handling, especially with the adaptive damping and air suspension options. The 5.3-litre V8 engine provided ample power and a satisfying V8 rumble, with a fuel efficiency of 14.3 L/100 km during testing.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured a plug-in hybrid drivetrain with a 3.6-litre V6 engine and a dual-motor electric drive system, producing 260 horsepower. The Pacifica Hybrid could travel up to 51 kilometres on electric power alone, with a total range of 62 kilometres on the battery and 48 km on the gasoline engine. The regenerative braking system helped improve efficiency, resulting in an average fuel economy of 6.3 L/100 km. The Pacifica Hybrid's powertrain was smooth and efficient, though the driving experience was somewhat dull. The steering was light, and the regenerative brakes occasionally felt too grabby. Despite this, the Pacifica Hybrid's powertrain impressed with its seamless transition between electric and gasoline power.

The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe's new independent rear suspension improved passenger comfort and cargo space. The test vehicle featured heated power-adjustable front seats and a heated steering wheel, with a power sliding storage console for added convenience. The second row offered a choice between a bench seat or captain's chairs, with easy access to the third row. The third-row seat provided ample space for adults, and the Tahoe offered a maximum cargo volume of 3,480 litres, surpassing most full-size SUVs.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, with three comfortable rows of seats and ample cargo space. The interior featured triple-zone climate control, quality leather upholstery, and heated and ventilated front seats. Storage options were plentiful, with a large floor tray and multiple bins. The second-row seats were more comfortable than the standard Pacifica's Stow n’ Go seats, though they required removal for maximum cargo space. The third-row seat was comfortable for adults, and the Pacifica Hybrid offered a maximum cargo volume of 3,978 litres, surpassing the Tahoe.

The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe's 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, voice recognition, and Chevrolet Connected Services. The system was user-friendly, though the screen's recessed position made some controls difficult to access. The test vehicle included a Rear Seat Media system, though we did not test its full capabilities. The Tahoe also offered a 15-inch head-up display and a surround-view camera system.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The system allowed for multiple user profiles and included the FamCam overhead camera system. The voice recognition technology was inconsistent, but the system's overall operation was smooth. The test vehicle included a 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system and an Amazon Fire TV rear-seat entertainment system. A surround-view camera system and parking assist were also available.

The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe included standard safety features like Teen Driver, rear-seat reminder, forward collision alert, and low-speed automatic emergency braking. Higher trims offered additional features like lane-departure warning, blind-spot warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Tahoe had not been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS at the time of review.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including a rear-seat reminder system. The Pacifica offered adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and lane-keeping assist, though the adaptive cruise control required refinement. The Pacifica earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.