2022 GMC Yukon vs 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was a minivan that embraced its identity, offering practicality over style. Despite its minivan label, it provided the convenience of sliding side doors, making it easier to load children in tight spaces. The Pacifica Hybrid was not a standout in terms of aesthetics, even with the S Appearance Package, and its price tag was on the higher side. However, it was unique in its class as a plug-in hybrid minivan, offering an eco-friendly option for families.

In contrast, the 2022 GMC Yukon was a full-size SUV that made a bold statement with its extensive use of chrome, especially in the Denali trim. The Denali's front end was dominated by a large chrome grille, giving it a commanding presence. The Yukon offered a spacious and tastefully crafted interior, with options for second-row captain's chairs and a variety of interior designs. The Denali trim featured luxurious touches like heated and cooled front seats and a premium look with contrasting colours and natural wood details.

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. 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 extend its range, and the transition between electric and gasoline power was seamless. However, the driving experience was described as dull, with light steering and unremarkable regenerative brakes.

The 2022 GMC Yukon offered a choice of three engines, including a 5.3-litre V8 with 355 horsepower, a 6.2-litre V8 with 420 horsepower, and a 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine with 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. The Yukon featured a 10-speed automatic transmission and was available with rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. The Denali trim came with the 6.2-litre V8, providing ample power and a hearty exhaust note. The Yukon's independent rear suspension improved handling and ride quality, although some bouncing was noted on rough surfaces.

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 second-row seats were more comfortable than the standard Pacifica's Stow n' Go seats, and the third-row seat provided reasonable comfort. The Pacifica Hybrid offered 914 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,477 litres with the third-row seats folded.

The 2022 GMC Yukon provided ample passenger space, especially in the third row, thanks to a redesign that increased legroom. The second-row seats folded flat, and power-folding options were available for easy access to the third row. The Yukon offered 722 litres of cargo space behind the third row, with additional storage features like a power-sliding centre console. The Denali trim included power-retractable assist steps and pushbutton transmission controls, enhancing convenience and ease of use.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a FamCam overhead camera system. The system allowed for multiple user profiles and offered a 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. The Pacifica Hybrid also offered Amazon Fire TV for rear-seat entertainment, although it was noted that teenagers preferred their own devices.

The 2022 GMC Yukon came with a 12-inch reconfigurable driver information centre, a 15-inch head-up display, and a 10.2-inch touchscreen with Google Built-In. The Yukon offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a Bose 14-speaker audio system, and a rear-seat media system with dual 12.6-inch touchscreens. The Denali trim included additional features like a power-sliding centre console and power-retractable assist steps.

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 needed refinement in certain situations. The Pacifica Hybrid earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 GMC Yukon came with GMC's Pro Safety suite, including automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assistance. The Yukon also featured a Safety Alert Seat and an adjustable rear camera mirror. In NHTSA tests, the Yukon received a four-star overall rating, with four stars for front crash protection and five stars for side crash protection.