2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid 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 centre. Despite these changes, the Pacifica retained some of its original sophistication, particularly noticeable as one moved from the front to the sides and rear. The S Appearance Package, with its darkened features and black accents, added a touch of sportiness to the exterior. Inside, the Pacifica offered a premium feel, especially in the Pinnacle trim, with its quilted Nappa leather seats, suede centre row pillows, and Beber floor mats. The flat dashboard, anchored by a 10.1-inch touchscreen, provided a modern touch, while the sound deadening technology ensured a quiet ride.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, while not a standout in terms of looks, offered a unique proposition as a plug-in hybrid minivan. Despite its rounded, flowing exterior and interior styling, which some might find dated, the Pacifica Hybrid focused on practicality and efficiency. The S Appearance Package added some visual appeal, but the real draw was its plug-in hybrid drivetrain. The interior, with black Nappa premium leather, provided a sense of quality, though it lacked the modern, architectural motifs seen in some competitors. The Pacifica Hybrid didn't try to hide its minivan identity, instead embracing it with features like sliding side doors and a spacious interior. While not cheap, the Pacifica Hybrid offered a unique combination of practicality and efficiency, making it a compelling choice for those prioritizing eco-friendliness and utility.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica offered two powertrain options: a traditional 3.6-litre V6 engine with 287 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, and a hybrid version combining the V6 with a dual-motor electrically variable transmission and a 16-kWh battery, achieving 260 horsepower. The hybrid model, designated as the Pacifica Hybrid, provided an all-electric range of over 50 kilometres and a total range of 784 kilometres, with a fuel efficiency of 2.9 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres. The traditional V6 Pacifica had a fuel consumption of 12.4 L/100 km in the city and 8.4 on the highway, with AWD models seeing slightly higher numbers. The AWD system, available for the first time in 16 years, activated on-demand based on driving conditions, enhancing traction without compromising fuel efficiency.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured a plug-in hybrid drivetrain based on the 3.6-litre V6 engine, paired with a dual-motor electric drive system. The total system output was 260 horsepower, with immediate torque from the electric drive system. The Pacifica Hybrid could travel up to 51 kilometres on electric power alone, making it ideal for short commutes and errands. The regenerative braking system helped extend the electric range, and the transition between electric and gasoline power was nearly seamless. The Pacifica Hybrid achieved an average fuel economy of 6.3 L/100 km, outperforming its main rival, the Toyota Sienna, in terms of efficiency. However, the driving experience was somewhat uninspiring, with light steering, unremarkable regenerative brakes, and a ride quality affected by the low-mounted battery weight.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica was designed with family life in mind, offering spacious front seats and a practical cabin layout. The removal of armrests in favour of a padded centre console lid allowed for a sense of togetherness, while still providing ample storage space. Standard features included rear power-sliding doors, three-zone climate control, and Stow 'n Go seating for the second and third rows, allowing for flexible cargo and passenger configurations. The Pacifica boasted best-in-class total storage of 3,979 litres, making it a top choice for family travel.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, with triple-zone automatic climate control, quality leather upholstery, and heated and ventilated front seats. Storage options were plentiful, with extra shelves, a large floor tray, and a long storage bin accessible from the second row. The second-row seats were more comfortable than the standard Pacifica's Stow 'n Go chairs, though they required removal to maximize cargo space. The third-row seat offered reasonable comfort, with cupholders, USB ports, and side window shades. The Pacifica Hybrid provided 914 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,477 litres with the third-row seats tumbled, and up to 3,978 litres with the second-row seats removed.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system was responsive and easy to use, though it lacked a head-up display. The second-row in-seat entertainment system remained an option, with new games added to the roster. The Pinnacle model included FamCam, an interior monitoring camera with unique features like a rear-facing child seat view.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid also utilized the Uconnect 5 system, offering a customizable user experience with five different profiles. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and included the FamCam system for monitoring rear passengers. The 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system provided premium audio, though it required some adjustment for optimal sound quality. The rear-seat entertainment system offered Amazon Fire TV, allowing for streaming and downloading content. A surround-view camera system and parking assist were available, enhancing convenience and safety.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica came with up to 116 standard or available safety features, including automatic pedestrian emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and forward collision warning. The Pinnacle grade offered additional features like a surround-view camera and lane departure warning. The Pacifica received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though the IIHS had not yet rated it.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid expanded its safety features to include a rear-seat reminder system. It offered a comprehensive package of driver-assist and collision-avoidance features, though it lacked adaptive cruise control with lane-centring assist. The adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability required refinement, as it was slow to resume speed and overly cautious in traffic. The Pacifica Hybrid 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.