2022 Chevrolet Suburban vs 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, despite its minivan label, offered a unique proposition in the automotive market. It was a plug-in hybrid minivan, a rarity among mainstream brands, providing a practical solution for families needing efficient transportation. The Pacifica Hybrid's design, while not particularly striking, was functional, with sliding side doors that made it easy to load children in tight parking spaces. The interior, though comfortable with quality materials like black Nappa leather, appeared somewhat dated compared to more modern, angular designs. The Pacifica Hybrid was not inexpensive, with the Limited trim reaching an MSRP of $64,960, but federal and provincial EV rebates helped make it more affordable.

In contrast, the 2022 Chevrolet Suburban embraced a bold, truck-like design, sharing its styling cues with the Tahoe SUV and Silverado 1500 pickup. The Suburban's imposing presence was accentuated by its tall hood, long proportions, and large wheels. Available in six trims, the Suburban offered a range of customization options. Our RST test vehicle, with its Cherry Red Tintcoat exterior and black-painted 22-inch wheels, exuded a sporty appeal. Inside, the Suburban provided a spacious cabin with varying levels of luxury, from the economically comfortable LS trim to the plush High Country. The RST's interior, while well-appointed, felt somewhat dark due to its predominantly black colour scheme.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was equipped with a plug-in hybrid drivetrain based on a 3.6-litre V6 engine paired with a dual-motor electric drive system, delivering a total output of 260 horsepower. The Pacifica Hybrid could travel up to 51 kilometres on electric power alone, making it ideal for short commutes and errands. The transition between electric and gasoline power was seamless, and the regenerative braking system helped extend the electric range. The Pacifica Hybrid achieved an average fuel economy of 6.3 litres per 100 kilometres, outperforming its closest rival, the Toyota Sienna, in terms of efficiency. However, the driving experience was somewhat uninspiring, with light steering, unremarkable brakes, and limited cornering grip.

The 2022 Chevrolet Suburban offered three engine choices: a 5.3-litre V8, a 6.2-litre V8, and a 3.0-litre turbodiesel inline-six. The 5.3-litre V8, standard on most trims, produced 355 horsepower, while the 6.2-litre V8, available on higher trims, delivered 420 horsepower. The new 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine provided 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, offering excellent towing capability and fuel efficiency. The Suburban's independent rear suspension improved ride quality and increased interior space. Our RST test vehicle, equipped with the 6.2-litre V8 and Magnetic Ride Control, offered effortless power and acceleration, making it well-suited for towing and long-distance travel.

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 range of storage solutions. The second-row seats were more comfortable than the standard Pacifica's Stow n' Go seats, 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 Chevrolet Suburban boasted impressive interior space, accommodating up to nine passengers with the optional front-row bench seat. The third row offered adequate headroom and legroom, and access was easy. The Suburban's cargo capacity was unmatched, with 1,175 litres of space behind the third row and 4,097 litres with the second and third rows folded. The power-sliding centre console and various storage compartments added to the Suburban's practicality. However, its large size made it challenging to manoeuvre and park in tight spaces.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, and a FamCam overhead camera system. The system allowed for multiple user profiles and simultaneous Bluetooth pairing. However, the voice recognition technology was inconsistent. The Pacifica Hybrid also offered a 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system and an optional rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV.

The 2022 Chevrolet Suburban came equipped with the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 System, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen on the LS and a 10.2-inch screen on higher trims. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Google built-in, and a WiFi hotspot. The Suburban offered a range of audio systems, from a basic six-speaker setup to a premium Bose 10-speaker system. The Suburban's technology package included a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and up to 13 camera views, enhancing its tech appeal.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and lane-keeping assist. However, the adaptive cruise control system required refinement. The Pacifica Hybrid earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, though its frontal-impact protection received four stars.

The 2022 Chevrolet Suburban featured the Chevy Safety Assist suite, including automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assistance. Optional safety features included adaptive cruise control, HD surround vision, and blind-spot monitoring. The Suburban received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with four stars for front crash protection, five stars for side crash protection, and three stars for rollover resistance.