2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2021 Mazda CX-30

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo was a striking vehicle, especially for those who appreciated a bold black aesthetic. Its shiny black 18-inch wheels, grille, and side mirror housings, combined with thick matte black body cladding, gave it a distinctive look. Mazda's design philosophy aimed to create a light and agile appearance, making the CX-30 seem as if it was floating over its wheels. This design choice set it apart from the Mazda3 hatchback, on which it was based, by giving it a higher stance and a unique presence on the road.

Inside, the CX-30 offered a cabin reminiscent of the Mazda3, with quality materials and a sophisticated design. The interior featured stitched chocolate brown surfaces and chrome accents, providing an upscale vibe. The GT trim, where the turbocharged engine became available, came with standard black or white leather. The vehicle's pricing ranged from $24,700 to $36,400, with our test model priced at $38,827, including fees.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, while not a visual standout, was a practical choice for those needing a minivan with a plug-in hybrid powertrain. Despite its minivan image, it offered the convenience of sliding side doors and a spacious interior. The Pacifica Hybrid was not cheap, with prices starting at $55,995 and reaching $64,960 for our test vehicle, including the destination charge. However, federal and provincial EV rebates could make it more affordable. The interior featured black Nappa leather and a design that, while comfortable, appeared somewhat dated compared to more modern styles.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo was equipped with a turbocharged Skyactiv 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing between 227 and 250 horsepower, depending on the fuel's octane rating. It delivered 310 to 320 lb-ft of torque, ensuring strong acceleration. The vehicle's fuel efficiency was rated at 9.3 L/100 km in combined driving, with a real-world average of 9.6 L/100 km. The CX-30 Turbo's i-Activ AWD system and G-Vectoring Control Plus technology contributed to its dynamic performance, offering effortless acceleration and impressive traction. However, its added height and weight compared to the Mazda3 made it less agile on the road.

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. It could travel up to 51 kilometres on electric power alone, making it ideal for short commutes. The regenerative braking system helped achieve an average fuel economy of 6.3 L/100 km. While the Pacifica Hybrid's powertrain was impressive, the driving experience was less engaging, with light steering and unremarkable regenerative brakes. The vehicle excelled in efficiency but lacked excitement behind the wheel.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo offered a comfortable and driver-focused interior with eight-way manual adjustment for the driver's seat. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were standard on higher trims. However, the lack of ventilated seats and limited front passenger seat adjustment were drawbacks. The cabin's design created a sense of spaciousness, but rear-seat space was cramped for adults. The CX-30 provided 572 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,280 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, with three rows of comfortable seating and ample cargo space. The interior featured triple-zone climate control, quality leather upholstery, and heated and ventilated front seats. Storage options were abundant, with various bins and compartments throughout the cabin. The second-row seats were more comfortable than the standard Pacifica's Stow n' Go seats, but they required removal for maximum cargo space. The Pacifica Hybrid offered 914 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 2,477 litres with the third row folded, and up to 3,978 litres with the second row removed.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo featured an 8.8-inch infotainment display operated via physical controls and voice commands. While the system required acclimation, it offered standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The GT trim added SiriusXM, navigation, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. An Active Driving Display projected useful data onto the windshield, enhancing safety and convenience.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted a 10.1-inch Uconnect 5 touchscreen with user-friendly graphics and customizable profiles. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with SiriusXM. The available FamCam system allowed parents to monitor rear-seat passengers. The 20-speaker Harman Kardon audio system required adjustments for optimal sound quality. The Pacifica also offered Amazon Fire TV for rear-seat entertainment, though personal devices were often preferred by passengers.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo earned top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, with a full suite of safety features and ADAS. The GT trim added adaptive front lighting, parking sensors, and rear automatic emergency braking.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid claimed to offer more standard safety features than any other vehicle. It included a rear-seat reminder system and a comprehensive package of driver-assist features. However, adaptive cruise control needed refinement. The Pacifica received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, with a four-star rating for frontal-impact protection.