2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2021 Lexus GX

The 2021 Lexus GX retained its rugged and aggressive exterior styling, a testament to its decade-long presence in the market. Despite its age, the GX's design remained coherent, with the massive spindle grille and triple-beam LED headlights adding to its distinctive look. However, the interior did not match the modern luxury standards, with wood trim resembling molded plastic and an abundance of actual plastic. The semi-aniline leather was a redeeming feature, but overall, the interior felt dated.

In contrast, the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, while not a visual standout, offered a practical and efficient design. The minivan's rounded, flowing exterior and interior styling appeared soft and somewhat dated compared to more modern, angular designs. However, the Pacifica Hybrid's interior was comfortable, with quality black Nappa leather and a spacious layout. Despite its higher price point, the Pacifica Hybrid provided a unique offering as a plug-in hybrid minivan, appealing to those prioritizing efficiency and practicality.

The 2021 Lexus GX was powered by a 4.6-litre V8 engine, delivering 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. While the V8 provided ample power for initial acceleration, the GX's hefty weight of 2,349 kilograms made high-speed maneuvers and stopping a challenge. The body-on-frame construction resulted in a less refined ride quality, but the GX excelled in off-road capabilities with features like a Torsen centre differential and Multi-Terrain Select. It boasted a towing capacity of 2,948 kilograms, making it a robust choice for off-road enthusiasts.

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 a total of 260 horsepower. The Pacifica Hybrid offered an electric-only range of 51 kilometres, ideal for short commutes and errands. The regenerative braking system contributed to an impressive fuel economy of 6.3 litres per 100 kilometres. While the driving experience was not particularly exciting, the Pacifica Hybrid's powertrain was efficient and seamless, with a nearly imperceptible transition between electric and gasoline modes.

The 2021 Lexus GX's interior ergonomics reflected its age, with limited legroom and an awkward steering wheel position. The dashboard's shape and boxy profile provided excellent visibility, but storage options were limited. The GX offered three rows of seating, but the third row was cramped and difficult to access. Cargo space was also limited, with only 1,833 litres available with the second and third rows folded.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, offering three comfortable rows of seats and ample cargo space. The interior featured triple-zone automatic climate control, quality leather upholstery, and numerous storage options. The second-row seats were more comfortable than the standard Pacifica's Stow n' Go seats, and the third row provided reasonable comfort for adults. With the third-row seats folded, the Pacifica Hybrid offered 2,477 litres of cargo space, and removing the second-row seats expanded it to 3,978 litres, surpassing many SUVs.

The 2021 Lexus GX was light on tech features, with a dated infotainment system lacking Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The touchscreen graphics were reminiscent of the 1990s, and the system offered limited functionality. However, analog controls provided a straightforward interface for essential functions.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, offering appealing graphics and a user-friendly interface. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with SiriusXM satellite radio. The available FamCam system allowed parents to monitor rear-seat passengers, and the optional 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system provided decent audio quality. The Pacifica Hybrid also offered Amazon Fire TV for rear-seat entertainment, although personal devices were often preferred by passengers.

The 2021 Lexus GX came equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ bundle, including a pre-collision system, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. However, it lacked some advanced safety features found in other Lexus and Toyota models, such as traffic-sign recognition and Lane Tracing Assist. The GX had not been rated by NHTSA or IIHS.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted an extensive list of standard safety features, including a rear-seat reminder system. It offered adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and lane-keeping assist, although the adaptive cruise system required refinement. The Pacifica earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, with a four-star rating for frontal-impact protection.