2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2022 Buick Encore GX

The 2022 Buick Encore GX was a compact SUV that closely resembled its sibling, the Encore, making it challenging to distinguish between the two, especially in similar colours. Both models featured Buick's signature trapezoidal "waterfall" grille, high beltline, and similar headlight and fascia designs. The Encore GX, however, had a slightly longer wheelbase and additional length, which gave it a more balanced appearance. The optional ST (Sport Touring) appearance package enhanced its aesthetic appeal with body-colour moldings, custom grille, sport bumpers, and 18-inch aluminum wheels. Inside, the Encore GX offered a comfortable cabin with soft-touch materials and leather upholstery on higher trims, though it wasn't truly premium. The controls were straightforward, and the available heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel added to the driving comfort.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, while not a visual standout, was a unique offering in the minivan segment with its plug-in hybrid capability. Despite its minivan image, it provided practical benefits like sliding side doors for easy access in tight spaces. The Pacifica Hybrid was not inexpensive, with the base model starting at $55,995, but it offered a federal EV rebate to offset costs. The interior featured quality materials like black Nappa leather, though the styling felt somewhat dated. The Pacifica Hybrid's strength lay in its practicality and efficiency, offering a plug-in hybrid powertrain that allowed for electric-only driving, making it a compelling choice for those prioritizing efficiency over style.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX was equipped with a 1.3-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine, producing 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive in Canada. Despite its small size, the engine was surprisingly capable, though it exhibited some harshness typical of three-cylinder engines. The Encore GX's driving dynamics were uninspiring, with a noisier cabin than expected from a Buick, despite the brand's emphasis on quietness. The ride was not as settled as anticipated, and the vehicle was not designed for off-roading, handling only light gravel and dirt paths.

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 excelled in efficiency, with an average fuel economy of 6.3 litres per 100 kilometres. The transition between electric and gasoline power was seamless, and the regenerative braking system helped recharge the battery. However, the driving experience was unremarkable, with light steering, uncommunicative brakes, and limited cornering grip. Despite these drawbacks, the powertrain's efficiency was impressive.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX, though compact, offered a comfortable and user-friendly experience. The vehicle's design facilitated easy ingress and egress, with controls that were clearly marked and easy to operate. Front-seat headroom and legroom were adequate, though rear-seat knee room was limited. The cargo space measured 665 litres behind the rear seats and 1,422 litres with the seats folded, providing reasonable storage capacity for its size. The Encore GX also featured a two-level cargo floor for added versatility and an optional hands-free power liftgate for convenience.

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 automatic climate control, quality leather upholstery, and heated and ventilated front seats. Storage solutions were abundant, with various bins and trays throughout the cabin. The second-row seats were more comfortable than those in a standard Pacifica, though they required removal to maximize cargo space. The third-row seat was reasonably comfortable, with cupholders and USB ports. The Pacifica Hybrid provided 914 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,477 litres with the third row folded, and up to 3,978 litres with the second row removed.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX offered a decent array of technology features, including an eight-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth audio streaming, and a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot. The vehicle also included OnStar telematics and SiriusXM satellite radio. Optional features included a navigation system, HD surround vision, a head-up display, and adaptive cruise control. The Convenience package added features like automatic parking assist and wireless phone charging. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with intuitive app layouts and efficient voice recognition.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was equipped with the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, featuring a 10.1-inch touchscreen with appealing graphics and a simple user interface. It 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. The Pacifica Hybrid also offered a 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system and an available rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV. The surround-view camera system and parking assist features were useful, though the voice recognition technology was inconsistent.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX came with a range of standard driver assistance features, including Teen Driver technology and a tire-fill alert system. It performed well in safety tests, earning five stars from the NHTSA for overall crash protection and "Good" ratings from the IIHS in crash tests. The Encore GX received "Superior" ratings for front crash prevention, though its headlights received mixed ratings depending on the trim level.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including a rear-seat reminder system. It 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.