2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2022 Toyota Venza

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was a unique offering in the minivan segment, standing out as a plug-in hybrid with three rows of seating. Despite its minivan label, which some consumers found less appealing compared to SUVs, the Pacifica Hybrid offered practical features like sliding side doors, making it convenient for families. Its design, however, was not particularly striking, even with the S Appearance Package. The interior, while comfortable with premium leather, felt somewhat dated compared to more modern, angular designs. The Pacifica Hybrid was priced on the higher side, but federal and provincial EV rebates helped make it more affordable.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Venza presented a more modern and stylish appearance, reminiscent of a Lexus. It was built on the proven TGNA-K platform, shared with several other Toyota and Lexus models. The Venza's design featured a sleek, scalloped body and a distinctive LED-lit tailgate, giving it a sophisticated look. Inside, the Venza offered a Lexus-like interior with high-quality materials and a well-organized layout. The cabin was spacious, with comfortable seating for five and a range of convenience features, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a midsize crossover with a touch of luxury.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was equipped with a plug-in hybrid drivetrain, combining a 3.6-litre V6 engine with a dual-motor electric drive system, delivering a total of 260 horsepower. The electric motor provided immediate torque, ensuring the Pacifica never felt underpowered, even when fully loaded. It offered an electric-only range of up to 51 kilometres, suitable for daily commutes and errands. The regenerative braking system helped recharge the battery, contributing to an average fuel economy of 6.3 litres per 100 kilometres. However, the driving experience was described as dull, with light steering and unremarkable regenerative brakes.

The 2022 Toyota Venza featured a 2.5-litre inline four-cylinder engine paired with three electric motors, producing a combined 219 horsepower. The Venza's hybrid system balanced electric and gas power for optimal efficiency, with the rear electric motors providing AWD capability. Drivers could choose from EV, Normal, Eco, and Sport modes to tailor performance. The Venza's handling was agile, and it offered a smooth ride, though it wasn't designed for aggressive cornering. The hybrid system was seamless, requiring no special attention, and the Venza delivered a comfortable and efficient driving experience.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, offering three spacious rows of seating and ample cargo space. It featured triple-zone climate control, quality leather upholstery, and a range of storage solutions, including a large floor tray and multiple bins. 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 removed.

The 2022 Toyota Venza accommodated five passengers in two rows, with ample headroom and legroom. The second row offered 114.8 cm of hip room, suitable for three adults. The cabin featured numerous convenience features, including an overhead console, power-adjustable front seats, and a spacious glove compartment. The Venza's lithium-ion battery pack had minimal impact on cargo capacity, offering 816 litres of space behind the second row and 1,560 litres with the seats folded. Toyota focused on creating a quiet cabin, using sound-blocking materials to ensure a serene driving experience.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid came with the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, featuring a 10.1-inch touchscreen with user-friendly graphics and customizable profiles. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and offered a FamCam overhead camera system for monitoring rear passengers. The available 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system required adjustments for optimal sound quality. The Pacifica also offered Amazon Fire TV for rear-seat entertainment, though personal devices were often preferred by passengers. A surround-view camera system and parking assist were available, enhancing convenience and safety.

The 2022 Toyota Venza featured a hybrid powertrain that required no charging infrastructure, making it convenient for those without access to home charging. The Venza's infotainment system included an eight-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and a nine-speaker JBL audio system on higher trims. The Limited model offered a 12.3-inch touchscreen, head-up display, and digital rearview mirror. Toyota Connected Services provided additional features, including Safety Connect and Remote Connect. The Venza's technology package was comprehensive, offering convenience and connectivity for modern drivers.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted a comprehensive suite of safety features, including a rear-seat reminder system to prevent leaving important items inside. It offered adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and lane-keeping assist, though the adaptive cruise system 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 Venza came with the Toyota Star Safety System, featuring stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. It included eight airbags and the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite, offering forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. The Venza also had a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking assist with automated braking on higher trims. It received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.