2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE was a vehicle that, despite its prestigious brand, did not quite capture the visual allure expected from a luxury SUV. Its design, reminiscent of a hurriedly completed assignment, lacked the refined proportions seen in its competitors like the BMW X5 or the Porsche Cayenne. The exterior, with its aggressive front nose and sloping hood, promised much but delivered little past the A-pillar, maintaining a resemblance to its predecessors. The flat taillights and contoured rear attempted to mask its minivan-like tendencies, but the overall aesthetic fell short of the elegance seen in other Mercedes models. The AMG trim added a sporty touch, yet it struggled to compete visually with the likes of the BMW X5 M or the Range Rover Sport SVR.

However, the interior of the GLE was a different story, showcasing a significant improvement with its 2021 redesign. The cabin was a masterpiece of quality and design, featuring a bold red and black colour scheme that exuded luxury. The interior materials, including wood, metal, leather, and suede, were a delight to touch, although some controls like the gear selector felt flimsy. The GLE's interior was a testament to Mercedes' commitment to luxury, offering a sense of pampering that rivalled even the most opulent SUVs. Despite this, the GLE required significant optional upgrades to truly feel luxurious, similar to the experience offered by more affordable models like the Kia Telluride.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, while not a visual standout, offered a unique proposition as a plug-in hybrid minivan. Its design, even with the S Appearance Package, did not aim to disguise its minivan roots, unlike many crossover SUVs. The Pacifica Hybrid was not inexpensive, with the base model starting at $55,995, and the Limited trim reaching $64,960 with additional options. However, the federal EV rebate and provincial incentives made it a more attractive option financially. The interior, though comfortable with premium leather and a clean air filtration system, felt somewhat dated compared to the more modern, angular designs gaining popularity. The Pacifica Hybrid did not attempt to hide its identity, focusing instead on practicality and efficiency.

The Pacifica Hybrid's interior was designed for comfort and utility, with features like triple-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. Storage solutions were abundant, with various compartments and bins throughout the cabin. The second-row seats, while not offering the Stow n’ Go feature due to the battery placement, were more comfortable and adjustable than those in the standard Pacifica. The third-row seats provided reasonable comfort, and the cargo space was impressive, with up to 3,978 litres available when the second-row seats were removed. The Pacifica Hybrid excelled in providing a practical and efficient solution for transporting people and cargo, despite its less exciting driving experience.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE excelled in performance, offering a range of advanced suspension and engine configurations. The base GLE 350 featured a reliable coil-sprung setup, while the GLE 450 and AMG models boasted the AIRMATIC air suspension with adaptive dampers. The AMG Ride Control+ and E-Active Body Control systems provided exceptional handling, allowing the GLE to lean into turns like a motorcyclist. The AMG GLE 53 Coupe, with its electric supercharger, delivered quick throttle response, although it lacked the expected punch. The GLE's hybrid system, EQ Boost, added 21 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, enhancing the driving experience without significantly improving fuel efficiency. The GLE's fuel consumption varied across models, with the AMG GLE 53 Coupe averaging 14.7 L/100 km, while the GLE 450 4MATIC achieved 10.4 L/100 km combined. All GLE models featured standard 4MATIC AWD, with towing capabilities up to 3,500 kg. The driving experience was exceptional, with precise steering and impressive ride quality, making the GLE a versatile and capable SUV.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid offered a unique plug-in hybrid drivetrain, combining a 3.6-litre V6 engine 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 km 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 seamless. The Pacifica Hybrid achieved an average fuel economy of 6.3 L/100 km, outperforming its rival, the Toyota Sienna, which used a four-cylinder engine. The Pacifica Hybrid's powertrain was impressive, but the driving experience was less engaging, with light steering, unremarkable brakes, and limited cornering grip. Despite this, the Pacifica Hybrid's powertrain efficiency and practicality made it a compelling choice for those prioritizing efficiency and utility.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a spacious interior, with most models featuring two rows of seats and an optional third row for seven-passenger seating. The second-row seats provided power controls for recline and fore-aft adjustments, while the third-row access was facilitated by sliding and folding the second-row seats. The Coupe body style accommodated five passengers, with limited rear space due to the sloping roofline and large rear tires. Cargo capacity varied, with the SUV offering 630 litres behind the second row and 2,055 litres with all rows folded. The Coupe's cargo space was more limited, with 655 litres behind the second row and 1,790 litres behind the first. The GLE's usability was enhanced by the MBUX infotainment system, which replaced the previous rotary/touchpad combo with a single touchpad and simplified interface. The interior controls were intuitive, although some features required setup before driving.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, offering 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 solutions were abundant, with various compartments and bins throughout the cabin. The second-row seats, while not offering the Stow n’ Go feature due to the battery placement, were more comfortable and adjustable than those in the standard Pacifica. The third-row seats provided reasonable comfort, and the cargo space was impressive, with up to 3,978 litres available when the second-row seats were removed. The Pacifica Hybrid's interior was designed for practicality and efficiency, making it an ideal choice for families and those needing to transport people and cargo.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured a 12-inch touchscreen display with Interior Assistant, allowing for gesture control and customizable shortcuts. The MBUX system offered a user-friendly interface with search bars and larger type, making it easier to navigate. The AMG models included a Track Pace app for performance tracking, while the Seat Kinetics feature adjusted seating positions for comfort. The GLE's technology offerings included a head-up display, ambient lighting with 64 colours, and a natural voice assistant. The navigation system projected front camera feeds with overlay arrows for directions, and the semi-automated functionality allowed for lane changes and speed adjustments. The GLE's technology was extensive, offering more features than most customers would fully utilize.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was equipped with the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, featuring a 10.1-inch touchscreen display with appealing graphics and a simple user interface. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as SiriusXM satellite radio. The FamCam overhead camera system allowed parents to monitor rear-seat passengers, and the available navigation system provided additional convenience. The Pacifica Hybrid's technology offerings included a 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, Amazon Fire TV for rear-seat entertainment, and a surround-view camera system. The adaptive cruise control and parking assist systems provided additional driving assistance, although the adaptive cruise control required refinement. Overall, the Pacifica Hybrid's technology offerings were comprehensive, enhancing the driving experience and passenger comfort.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE received top safety ratings, earning the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. The GLE was equipped with a range of safety and driver assistance features, including blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and evasive steering assist. The Pre-Safe Sound and Pre-Safe Impulse Side features provided additional protection in the event of a crash. The GLE's safety features were comprehensive, offering peace of mind for drivers and passengers.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid also received top safety ratings, earning the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. The Pacifica Hybrid was equipped with a complete package of standard driver-assist and collision-avoidance features, although it lacked adaptive cruise control with lane-centring assist. The adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and lane-keeping assist provided additional driving assistance, although the system required refinement. The Pacifica Hybrid's safety features were extensive, offering protection and assistance for drivers and passengers.