2022 Acura RDX vs 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, despite its minivan status, offered a unique proposition as a plug-in hybrid with three rows of seating. It wasn't the most visually appealing vehicle, even with the S Appearance Package, and its price point was on the higher side. The interior, while comfortable with quality black Nappa leather, felt somewhat dated compared to more modern designs. Chrysler made no attempt to disguise the Pacifica's minivan identity, which could be a drawback for those seeking a more rugged image.

In contrast, the 2022 Acura RDX presented subtle styling changes inspired by its larger sibling, the MDX. The RDX's design updates included a refreshed grille surround, bumper styling, and new wheel designs. The PMC Edition, with its exclusive Long Beach Blue Pearl paint, stood out in the lineup. The RDX's interior boasted high-quality materials and a quieter cabin, enhancing its appeal. The A-Spec Platinum Elite package added a touch of luxury, justifying its price with a solid build and stylish flair.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured a plug-in hybrid drivetrain combining a 3.6-litre V6 engine with a dual-motor electric drive system, delivering 260 horsepower. The electric drive system provided immediate torque, ensuring the Pacifica never felt underpowered, even when fully loaded. It offered an electric-only range of 51 kilometres, making it ideal for short commutes and errands. The regenerative braking system contributed to an impressive average fuel economy of 6.3 litres per 100 kilometres. However, the driving experience was somewhat uninspiring, with light steering and unremarkable regenerative brakes.

The 2022 Acura RDX, powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder VTEC engine, produced 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. The 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters complemented the engine's performance. Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system enhanced the RDX's driving dynamics, providing a responsive and enjoyable experience. The revised Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) offered distinct driving modes, while sound-deadening measures ensured a quieter ride. Despite its engaging performance, the RDX didn't quite reach the thrill levels of some German competitors.

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 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 chairs, though they required removal to maximize cargo space. The Pacifica Hybrid provided 914 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,477 litres with the third row folded and 3,978 litres with the second row removed.

The 2022 Acura RDX, while a compact SUV, offered ample room for four adults and their luggage. The interior emphasized a sporty driving position, with a unique control layout that required some acclimation. The standard 12-way power-adjustable and heated front seats were comfortable, and the dual-zone automatic climate control ensured a pleasant cabin environment. The back seat, however, lacked support, prioritizing a flat cargo load floor. The RDX provided 835 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,668 litres with the rear seats folded.

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 system's voice recognition technology was inconsistent, but the available 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system delivered impressive audio quality. The Pacifica also offered Amazon Fire TV for rear-seat entertainment, though it might not be necessary for tech-savvy passengers with their own devices.

The 2022 Acura RDX's True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system paired a 10.2-inch display with a touchpad controller. While the system required a learning curve, it offered Amazon Alexa Built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad. The RDX featured three premium sound systems, with the ELS Studio 3D surround-sound audio system providing an immersive experience. The Technology package and higher trims included a navigation system and a 10.5-inch head-up display.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted an extensive list 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, the adaptive cruise control system required refinement, as it was slow to resume speed and overly cautious in moderate traffic.

The 2022 Acura RDX received structural upgrades for improved side-impact safety, maintaining its Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. New safety features included a rear seatbelt reminder system and enhanced AcuraWatch driver-assist systems. While the adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist were generally accurate, they occasionally issued false warnings in challenging conditions. The RDX earned a five-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA, with four-star frontal-impact and rollover resistance ratings.