2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2023 Acura MDX

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 image of a midsize crossover SUV, it provided the convenience of sliding side doors, making it easier to load children in tight spaces. The Pacifica Hybrid stood out as a unique option, being the only plug-in hybrid minivan available, with no direct competitors offering the same combination of features. However, its styling was considered soft and dated, and it wasn't cheap, with the Limited trim reaching a price of $64,960, even after factoring in federal EV rebates.

Inside, the Pacifica Hybrid featured a comfortable interior with quality black Nappa leather, though its design was seen as less modern compared to newer trends. Despite its appearance, the Pacifica Hybrid didn't try to hide its minivan identity, unlike some competitors. While it might not have been the most visually appealing choice, it offered a compelling package for those prioritizing efficiency and practicality over style.

The 2023 Acura MDX, particularly in its Type S variant, aimed to deliver a blend of luxury and performance. It featured a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine producing 355 horsepower, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system. The MDX Type S offered various driving modes, including a unique Lift mode for increased ground clearance. However, despite these enhancements, the MDX Type S struggled to deliver a cohesive driving experience. The transmission was indecisive, and the ride lacked compliance, leading to a less predictable and enjoyable drive.

While the MDX Type S boasted impressive features like a panoramic moonroof, quilted leather interior, and advanced technology, it fell short in terms of performance. The engine's power increase over the standard V6 was not substantial enough to justify its fuel consumption, and the driving dynamics were not as refined as expected. The MDX Type S was more suited for those seeking a luxury SUV with a focus on comfort and style rather than a thrilling driving experience.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in its role as an efficient people mover. Its plug-in hybrid drivetrain combined a 3.6-litre V6 engine with a dual-motor electric drive system, delivering a total output of 260 horsepower. The electric drive system provided immediate torque, ensuring the Pacifica never felt underpowered, even when fully loaded. It could travel up to 51 kilometres on electric power alone, making it ideal for short commutes and errands. The regenerative braking system helped recharge the battery, contributing to an impressive average fuel economy of 6.3 litres per 100 kilometres.

While the Pacifica Hybrid's powertrain was praised for its efficiency and seamless transition between electric and gasoline modes, the driving experience was less engaging. The steering was light and uncommunicative, and the regenerative brakes occasionally felt too grabby. Despite these drawbacks, the Pacifica Hybrid's powertrain was considered brilliant, offering a practical and efficient solution for families.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S featured a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine producing 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. It utilized a 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura's SH-AWD system, which could distribute power to individual wheels for improved handling. The MDX Type S offered various driving modes, including Sport and Sport+, but struggled to deliver a cohesive performance. The transmission was indecisive, and the ride lacked compliance, leading to a less predictable driving experience.

Despite its performance-oriented features, the MDX Type S fell short in terms of driving dynamics. The engine's power increase over the standard V6 was not substantial enough to justify its fuel consumption, and the driving experience was marred by issues such as squealing tires and poor brake pedal modulation. The MDX Type S was more suited for those seeking a luxury SUV with a focus on comfort and style rather than a thrilling driving experience.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in terms of interior space and utility. It offered three comfortable rows of seats and ample cargo space, making it an ideal choice for families. The Pacifica Hybrid's interior featured quality leather upholstery, triple-zone automatic climate control, and a range of storage solutions. The second-row seats were more comfortable than the standard Pacifica's Stow n' Go seats, and the third-row seat provided reasonable comfort for passengers. With the third-row seats folded, the Pacifica Hybrid offered 2,477 litres of cargo space, and removing the second-row seats increased the capacity to 3,978 litres.

The 2023 Acura MDX provided a functional interior with three rows of seats and a choice of two or three second-row seating positions. The MDX Type S featured 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions, wrapped in quilted leather upholstery. However, the seats were firm and didn't provide the expected level of support for spirited driving. The second-row seats offered flexibility with a removable centre section, but the third row was best suited for children due to limited space.

In terms of cargo capacity, the MDX offered 461 litres of space behind the third row, expanding to 1,107 litres with the third row folded and 2,021 litres with both rear rows down. While the MDX provided a decent amount of cargo space, it fell short of the Pacifica Hybrid's capacity.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen display. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, SiriusXM satellite radio, and the FamCam overhead camera system for monitoring rear passengers. The system was user-friendly, but the voice recognition technology was inconsistent. The Pacifica Hybrid also offered a 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, though the sound quality required adjustment for optimal performance.

The 2023 Acura MDX boasted a Digital Precision Cockpit with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment display. However, the infotainment screen was not touch-sensitive, requiring the use of a True Touchpad Interface (TTI) on the centre console. While the TTI aimed to provide a better user experience, it was less intuitive than traditional touchscreens. The MDX offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa Built-In, and a high-end ELS Studio 3D audio system with 25 speakers. The MDX also featured a head-up display with navigation instructions and driving assistance status.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was equipped with a comprehensive suite of 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 resume speed and overly sensitive to vehicles cutting in. 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 2023 Acura MDX offered a range of safety features, including a collision mitigation braking system, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control with low-speed following capability. The MDX also included rain-sensing wipers, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. While the safety systems generally operated with accuracy, there were occasional issues, such as false lane-departure notifications and a collision warning triggered by an overhead sign. The MDX received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with four-star ratings for frontal-impact protection.