2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2022 Acura MDX

The 2022 Acura MDX was a standout in the three-row luxury crossover SUV category, offering a compact exterior that belied its spacious interior. Built on a new dedicated platform, the MDX featured a longer wheelbase, wider body, and an increased dash-to-axle distance, enhancing its elegant appearance. The vehicle's design was modern and sporty, highlighted by standard Jewel Eye LED headlights and larger wheels. Inside, the MDX boasted a refined cabin with authentic materials like natural wood and real leather, complemented by high-quality plastics. The dashboard's layered design emphasized cabin width, while the unique gear selection and touchpad controls added a futuristic touch. The MDX's interior was both comfortable and functional, with a range of colour options for both the exterior and interior.

In contrast, the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was a practical minivan that prioritized functionality over style. Despite its minivan image, the Pacifica Hybrid offered a unique plug-in hybrid drivetrain, making it a rare find in the market. The vehicle's exterior and interior design appeared softer and more dated compared to the sharper, more architectural trends. However, the Pacifica Hybrid excelled in practicality, with features like sliding side doors for easy access in tight spaces. The interior was equipped with quality materials, including black Nappa leather, and offered ample storage solutions. The Pacifica Hybrid's seating was comfortable, though the second-row seats did not offer the Stow n’ Go feature due to the battery placement. Overall, the Pacifica Hybrid was a practical choice for those seeking efficiency and space.

The 2022 Acura MDX was powered by a naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. It featured a new 10-speed automatic transmission and Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), enhancing its cornering feel and control. The MDX's suspension was upgraded to a double-wishbone setup in the front and a revised multi-link suspension in the rear, improving both sporty handling and ride quality. The vehicle's overall stiffness and rigidity were significantly improved, resulting in a solid ride feel. The MDX offered five drive modes, allowing drivers to tailor the vehicle's performance to their preferences. During test drives, the MDX impressed with its handling and performance, standing out among competitors like the Lexus RX L and Volvo XC90.

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, delivering a total of 260 horsepower. The electric drive system provided immediate torque, and the van could travel up to 51 kilometres on electric power alone. The Pacifica Hybrid's regenerative braking system helped capture energy and improve fuel efficiency, achieving an average of 6.3 litres per 100 kilometres. 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 and practicality, but its driving dynamics were more akin to a four-wheeled appliance.

The 2022 Acura MDX offered versatile seating arrangements with comfortable front and second-row seats. The second row featured a removable centre section and could slide to balance legroom for passengers. The third row was best suited for smaller passengers, but the MDX provided ample USB connections across all rows. The vehicle's cargo space was flexible, with up to 2,690 litres available when the second and third rows were folded. The power tailgate featured convenient functions like Hands-Free Access and customizable opening height. Interior lighting was customizable with 27 themes, enhancing the cabin's ambiance.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, offering three comfortable rows of seats and ample cargo space. The interior featured quality leather upholstery, triple-zone climate control, and a heated steering wheel. Storage solutions were abundant, with various bins and trays throughout the cabin. The second-row seats were more comfortable than the standard Pacifica's Stow n’ Go seats, though they required removal for maximum cargo space. The third-row seat was comfortable for adults and children, with cupholders and USB ports. The Pacifica Hybrid offered up to 3,978 litres of cargo space with the second-row seats removed, surpassing many SUVs in capacity.

The 2022 Acura MDX was equipped with advanced technology, including the ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System with 16 speakers and 710 watts of amplification. The 12.3-inch infotainment system and Acura Precision Cockpit digital instrument panel were standard, offering a customizable user experience. The MDX featured Amazon Alexa integration, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a WiFi hotspot. A head-up display and surround-view camera system were available on higher trims, enhancing convenience and safety.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen display. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and the FamCam overhead camera system. The Harman Kardon premium sound system was available, though its default settings required adjustment for optimal sound quality. The Pacifica Hybrid also offered Amazon Fire TV for rear-seat entertainment, though personal devices were often preferred by passengers. The vehicle's surround-view camera system and parking assist features added convenience, though the adaptive cruise control system required refinement.

The 2022 Acura MDX earned a "Top Safety Pick +" rating from the IIHS, with top marks in every category. The vehicle featured a high-strength steel structure and advanced safety systems, including low-speed braking control and collision mitigation throttle control. The AcuraWatch suite of safety features was standard, offering comprehensive driver assistance technologies.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid also received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. The vehicle included a rear-seat reminder system and a complete package of standard driver-assist features. However, the adaptive cruise control system required improvement in certain situations, such as recognizing departing vehicles and moderating speed when cut off by other motorists.