2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2022 Ford Expedition

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, despite its minivan label, offered a practical solution for families needing efficient transportation. While it didn't boast the rugged appeal of an SUV, it provided the convenience of sliding side doors, making it easier to load children in tight spaces. The Pacifica Hybrid was unique in its class as a plug-in hybrid minivan, offering an electric-only driving range that no three-row SUV from a mainstream brand could match. However, its styling was considered soft and dated, and it came with a hefty price tag, even after factoring in federal and provincial EV rebates.

In contrast, the 2022 Ford Expedition underwent several updates, including exterior styling revisions and enhanced infotainment technology. It featured a new grille, headlights, and bumper, along with redesigned wheels. The Expedition was available in various trims, including the off-road-focused Timberline and the sporty Stealth Edition. Inside, it boasted a redesigned dashboard with the latest Sync 4 and Sync 4A infotainment systems. The Expedition's interior was spacious and comfortable, with leather-wrapped, heated, and ventilated front seats, making it a favourite for long road trips.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was powered by a plug-in hybrid drivetrain, combining a 3.6-litre V6 engine with a dual-motor electric drive system, producing a total of 260 horsepower. It offered an electric-only range of up to 51 kilometres, making it ideal for short commutes and errands. The Pacifica Hybrid's regenerative braking system helped achieve an average fuel economy of 6.3 litres per 100 kilometres. While the driving experience was not particularly exciting, the powertrain's efficiency and seamless transition between electric and gasoline modes were commendable.

The 2022 Ford Expedition featured a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre EcoBoost V6 engine, delivering 380 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. The Expedition's powertrain was paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, offering a towing capacity of up to 4,173 kg. While the Expedition's fuel economy ranged from 12.9 to 13.9 litres per 100 kilometres, its powerful engine and impressive towing capabilities made it a strong contender for those needing a robust SUV. The Expedition's driving dynamics were generally smooth, though the sport-tuned suspension in the Stealth Edition could result in a harsher ride.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, offering three comfortable rows of seats and ample cargo space. It featured triple-zone automatic climate control, quality leather upholstery, and heated and ventilated front seats. The Pacifica Hybrid's interior was designed for convenience, with numerous storage options and a spacious cargo area. With the third-row seats folded, it provided 2,477 litres of cargo space, and removing the second-row seats increased capacity to 3,978 litres.

The 2022 Ford Expedition offered exceptional comfort, with power-adjustable, leather-wrapped, heated, and ventilated front seats. The second-row captain's chairs provided ample legroom, and the third-row seats were easy to access. The Expedition's cargo space was generous, with 546 litres behind the third row and up to 2,961 litres with both rear rows folded. The Expedition Max variant offered even more cargo capacity, making it an excellent choice for families needing extra space.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen display, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The system allowed for multiple user profiles and included a FamCam overhead camera system for monitoring 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 2022 Ford Expedition came equipped with the Sync 4 and optional Sync 4A infotainment systems, featuring a 12-inch or 15.5-inch touchscreen display. Both systems included wireless smartphone connectivity, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a connected navigation system. The Expedition offered a choice of Bang & Olufsen sound systems, with the higher-end models featuring a 22-speaker B&O Unleashed system. The Expedition also provided advanced trailer backup assist technology and an upgraded rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV.

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, as it was slow to respond to changing traffic conditions. The Pacifica Hybrid earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Ford Expedition offered a range of Ford Co-Pilot360 safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control with lane-centring assist and a surround-view camera system. The Expedition's adaptive cruise control system was smooth and refined, but the lane-centring assist technology had some quirks, particularly in heavy traffic. Ford's BlueCruise hands-free driving technology was also available on the Expedition.