2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer vs 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer was a compact SUV that combined appealing aesthetics with practical features. Its design was well-proportioned, with character lines and small details that enhanced its visual appeal. The option of a contrasting roof colour in black, white, or red added to its charm. Available in four trims—LS, LT, Activ, and RS—the Trailblazer offered a range of choices for Canadian consumers, with prices starting at $25,998 and reaching $30,298. The RS trim, which we tested, was the most expensive, with a sticker price of $37,653 after options and destination charges. Despite its stylish interior, the use of hard plastics detracted from its overall appeal, making the LT trim a more sensible choice for budget-conscious buyers.

In contrast, the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was a minivan that prioritized functionality over style. While it didn't boast the rugged image of an SUV, it offered the practicality of sliding side doors and a spacious interior. The Pacifica Hybrid was unique in its class, being the only plug-in hybrid minivan available. It came in three trims: Touring L, Limited, and Pinnacle, with prices starting at $55,995. Our Limited-trim test vehicle, equipped with additional features, had an MSRP of $64,960. Despite its higher price, the Pacifica Hybrid offered a comfortable and well-appointed interior, with premium leather and a range of convenience features. However, its exterior and interior design felt somewhat dated compared to more modern competitors.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer was powered by a turbocharged 1.3-litre three-cylinder engine, producing 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) in front-wheel-drive models, provided a lively driving experience. Opting for all-wheel drive (AWD) added a nine-speed automatic transmission and improved suspension, enhancing ride and handling. The Trailblazer's light weight, turbocharged torque, and 18-inch wheels made it nimble and fun to drive, especially in urban settings. However, it was noisy on highways, and its suspension struggled with speed bumps. Fuel efficiency was a concern, with our test vehicle averaging 9.0 litres per 100 kilometres, slightly above the official rating.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured a plug-in hybrid drivetrain based on a 3.6-litre V6 engine, combined with a dual-motor electric drive system. This setup delivered 260 horsepower, with immediate torque from the electric motors. The Pacifica Hybrid could travel up to 51 kilometres on electric power alone, making it ideal for short commutes. Charging was convenient, with the ability to use a standard household outlet. The transition between electric and gasoline power was seamless, and regenerative braking helped improve efficiency. Our test vehicle achieved an average fuel economy of 6.3 litres per 100 kilometres. While the Pacifica Hybrid's powertrain was impressive, its driving dynamics were less engaging, with light steering and unremarkable brakes.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer, despite its compact size, offered impressive functionality. It could accommodate four passengers comfortably, with a 10-way power-adjustable driver seat for optimal positioning. The rear seat, though flat and firm, provided ample legroom. Cargo space was generous, with 716 litres available in the trunk and 1,540 litres with the rear seats folded. The front passenger seat also folded flat, allowing the Trailblazer to carry items up to 2.5 metres long.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, with three rows of comfortable seating and ample cargo space. The Limited trim featured premium leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. Storage options 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 spacious enough for adults, and the Pacifica Hybrid offered 914 litres of cargo space behind it. Folding the third-row seats created a 2,477-litre cargo area, while removing the second-row seats expanded capacity to 3,978 litres.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer came equipped with a user-friendly infotainment system featuring a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen. Standard features included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Our test vehicle had the larger screen, with access to Spotify, SiriusXM, and an optional Bose audio system. The system's intuitive interface and physical controls made it easy to use. Additional features included a keyless entry keypad and a hands-free power liftgate.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, and the FamCam camera system for monitoring rear passengers. The system supported multiple user profiles and simultaneous Bluetooth pairing. However, voice recognition was inconsistent. Our test vehicle included a 20-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, though sound quality required adjustment. The Pacifica Hybrid also offered Amazon Fire TV for rear-seat entertainment, though our passengers preferred their own devices. A surround-view camera system and parking assist were available, though the latter was less effective than manual parking.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer prioritized safety with 10 airbags and a rear-seat reminder system. Chevy Safety Assist was standard, providing advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) such as forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. Optional features included blind-spot warning and adaptive cruise control. The Trailblazer received top crash-test ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted an extensive list of standard safety features, including a rear-seat reminder system. While it lacked adaptive cruise control with lane-centring assist, it offered adaptive cruise with stop-and-go capability and lane-keeping assist. However, the adaptive cruise system required refinement, as it was slow to resume speed and braked too abruptly in traffic. The Pacifica earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though its frontal-impact protection was rated four stars.