2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2021 Volvo XC90

The 2021 Volvo XC90 marked a significant shift in Volvo's design philosophy, moving away from its traditionally conservative styling. This model retained the brand's signature boxy profile and rectangular grille but introduced softer lines and more chrome detailing. The LED headlights, featuring the distinctive "Thor’s Hammer" daytime running lights, added a unique touch to the vehicle's appearance. The XC90 was available in various trims, with the Inscription model showcasing extra chrome trim and optional 21-inch alloy wheels, while the R-Design and Momentum trims offered sportier and more understated looks, respectively. Inside, the XC90 embraced "Swedish minimalism," with high-quality materials and a restrained design. The interior featured matte-finish wood trim and optional wool upholstery, creating a sophisticated yet understated atmosphere.

In contrast, the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was a practical minivan that prioritized functionality over aesthetics. While it didn't boast a striking appearance, it offered a unique plug-in hybrid powertrain, making it a standout choice for those seeking efficiency. The Pacifica Hybrid's exterior design was rounded and flowing, which some might find dated compared to more modern, angular designs. Inside, the Pacifica Hybrid provided a comfortable and spacious environment, with black Nappa premium leather upholstery and a range of convenience features. Despite its utilitarian appearance, the Pacifica Hybrid excelled in providing a practical and efficient solution for families, offering a plug-in hybrid option that was unmatched in the minivan segment.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrain options, all centred around a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base T5 model featured a turbocharged engine producing 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The T6 variant added a supercharger, increasing output to 316 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid, also known as the Recharge, combined the T6 engine with electric assistance, delivering a total of 400 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque. All models in Canada came with all-wheel drive as standard. While the XC90's power was impressive, the small engine sometimes struggled to provide seamless acceleration, especially when relying solely on electric power. The XC90 offered three drive modes—Pure, Hybrid, and Power—but the Pure mode was limited to low-speed use. Despite these limitations, the XC90 excelled in providing a luxurious ride, with an optional air-suspension system ensuring a smooth and quiet experience. The XC90 also boasted a respectable towing capacity of 2,250 kilograms.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured a plug-in hybrid drivetrain based on a 3.6-litre V6 engine paired with a dual-motor electric drive system. This setup provided a total system output of 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 recharge the battery, contributing to an average fuel economy of 6.3 litres per 100 kilometres. While the Pacifica Hybrid's powertrain was efficient, it lacked the driving excitement of more performance-oriented vehicles. The steering was light, and the regenerative brakes occasionally felt too grabby. Despite these drawbacks, the Pacifica Hybrid's powertrain was praised for its seamless transition between electric and gasoline power, offering a smooth and efficient driving experience.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 was available in six-seat or seven-seat configurations, with the option of second-row captain’s chairs or a bench seat. While headroom and legroom were average for the segment, the third-row space was tight for adults, and the seats lacked support. The XC90 featured a power sunroof and four-zone climate control, enhancing the interior's spacious feel. However, storage space was limited, with a shallow centre console and minimal storage options. Cargo capacity was also on the lower end, with 317 litres with all seats in place, 965 litres with the rear seats folded, and 1,815 litres 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 heated and ventilated front seats. Storage options were abundant, with extra shelves, a large floor tray, and multiple storage bins. The second-row seats were more comfortable than the standard Pacifica's Stow n’ Go chairs, offering adjustable legroom. The third-row seat provided reasonable comfort, with cupholders, USB ports, and side window shades. Cargo space was impressive, with 914 litres behind the third row, 2,477 litres with the third row folded, and up to 3,978 litres with the second-row seats removed.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system, which emphasized simplicity and functionality. It came with a 9-inch touchscreen, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. The system was easy to use, with a portrait-oriented touchscreen that allowed for intuitive navigation. However, the text and typeface made reading some menus challenging while driving. The XC90 also offered a 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins premium audio system and a head-up display as optional features.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was equipped with the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, featuring a 10.1-inch touchscreen display. The system offered appealing graphics, a simple user interface, and quick response times. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, as well as SiriusXM satellite radio. The available FamCam overhead camera system allowed parents to monitor rear-seat passengers. While the Uconnect 5 system was generally well-received, the voice recognition technology was inconsistent. The Pacifica Hybrid also offered a 20-speaker Harman Kardon premium sound system and an optional rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 received the highest "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for non-hybrid models, with top "Good" scores in all crash tests. It also earned a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The XC90 offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including lane-keep assist, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was equipped with an extensive array of standard safety and security features, including a rear-seat reminder system. While it lacked adaptive cruise control with lane-centring assist, it did offer adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and lane-keeping assist. The Pacifica Hybrid earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. However, its adaptive cruise control system required refinement, as it was slow to respond to changes in traffic conditions.