2022 Toyota Highlander vs 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was a unique offering in the minivan segment, particularly as a plug-in hybrid. Despite its minivan status, which some might find less appealing compared to SUVs, it offered practical features like sliding side doors that made it convenient for families. The Pacifica Hybrid was not designed to hide its minivan identity, unlike some competitors, and its styling was considered soft and somewhat dated. The interior, while comfortable with quality materials like black Nappa leather, did not attempt to disguise its minivan roots. The Pacifica Hybrid was priced on the higher side, with the Limited trim reaching $64,960, though federal and provincial EV rebates could make it more affordable.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Highlander presented a modern and somewhat aggressive design, with features like flared fender arches and a distinctive third-row window. The Highlander offered a spacious cabin with clever storage solutions, making it practical for families. The XSE trim, in particular, stood out with its bold red leather interior and sport-tuned suspension, adding a touch of excitement to the driving experience. The Highlander was available in multiple trims, each offering a range of features from standard AWD to premium options like a panoramic moonroof and a JBL audio system. Its design and features made it a popular choice for those seeking a stylish and versatile SUV.

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. The electric drive system provided immediate torque, ensuring the Pacifica never felt underpowered, even when fully loaded. It offered an electric-only range of up to 51 kilometres, making it ideal for short commutes and errands. The regenerative braking system helped extend the range by capturing energy during coasting. 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 described as dull, with light steering and unremarkable regenerative brakes.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander was equipped with a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. The Highlander offered drive modes including Sport, Normal, and Eco, as well as AWD modes for different terrains. The V6 engine provided good pickup, especially at highway speeds, and delivered a throaty exhaust note. The Highlander's handling was commendable, with a sport-tuned suspension on the XSE trim that reduced body roll while maintaining comfort. It could tow up to 2,268 kilograms, making it versatile for various needs.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, offering three comfortable rows of seats and significant cargo space. It featured triple-zone automatic climate control, quality leather upholstery, and heated and ventilated front seats. Storage solutions were abundant, with extra shelves, bins, and a large floor tray. 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 up to 3,978 litres with the second-row seats removed.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander offered up to 2,387 litres of cargo space with the second- and third-row seats folded. With the second-row seats in use, it provided 1,370 litres, and 453 litres with all seats deployed. The Highlander featured quick-release latches for easy seat folding and a power liftgate on higher trims. The cabin was designed with practicality in mind, offering deep cargo pockets, extra ledges, and a spacious centre console. The XSE trim included second-row captain's chairs, providing a centre aisle to the rear seats, though the third row was less comfortable for adults.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was equipped with the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, featuring a 10.1-inch touchscreen with appealing graphics and a user-friendly interface. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and offered features like FamCam for monitoring rear passengers. 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 Toyota Highlander came standard with an 8-inch touchscreen supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with Bluetooth connectivity and SiriusXM satellite radio. The infotainment system was straightforward, with hard buttons complementing the touchscreen. A larger 12.3-inch touchscreen was available, along with a digital instrument panel and an 11-speaker JBL stereo system. The XSE trim included a wireless charging pad and multiple USB ports for added convenience.

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

The 2022 Toyota Highlander featured the Toyota Safety Sense suite, including forward collision avoidance, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. It also offered blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and eight airbags as standard. Higher trims included additional features like parking sensors and a surround-view monitor. The Highlander earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.