2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2023 Audi Q5

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, despite being a minivan, offered a unique proposition in the automotive market. It was a plug-in hybrid with three rows of seating, a rarity among mainstream brands. While it didn't boast the rugged image of a midsize crossover SUV, it provided practical features like sliding side doors, which made it easier to load children in tight parking spaces. The Pacifica Hybrid's design, both inside and out, was more rounded and flowing, which some might have found dated compared to the sharper, more architectural styles gaining popularity. Despite its high price tag, the Pacifica Hybrid's interior was comfortable, with quality materials like black Nappa leather, though it didn't attempt to disguise its minivan identity.

In contrast, the 2023 Audi Q5 presented a more refined and sporty appearance, with subtle curves and angular accents. Available in both regular SUV and Sportback body styles, the Q5 managed to maintain a classy look, even with its coupelike design. Inside, the Q5's layout was simple yet elegant, though its age was beginning to show. Standard features included leather seating and heated front seats, with options for a heated steering wheel and rear seats. The Q5's build quality was solid, with no squeaks or creaks, and it offered a quiet cabin experience, meeting the standards expected of a luxury SUV.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was equipped with a plug-in hybrid drivetrain based on a 3.6-liter V6 engine paired with a dual-motor electric drive system, producing a total 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 32 miles 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 37.1 mpg during testing. However, the driving experience was described as dull, with light steering and unremarkable regenerative brakes.

The 2023 Audi Q5 offered three engine choices. The base 40 TFSI was a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 201 horsepower, while the midrange 45 TFSI increased output to 261 hp. The 55 TFSI plug-in hybrid delivered 362 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, with an electric-only range of 23 miles. All Q5s came with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and standard Quattro all-wheel drive. The Q5 Sportback with the 45 TFSI engine experienced a noticeable delay in power delivery, but once underway, it provided adequate power. Handling was sporty, with precise steering, and the Q5 offered a good balance between ride comfort and cornering ability.

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. Storage options were plentiful, with various bins and trays throughout the cabin. The second-row seats were more comfortable than the standard Pacifica's Stow n’ Go chairs, though they required removal to maximize cargo space. The Pacifica Hybrid provided 32.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 87.5 cubic feet with the third row folded, and up to 140.5 cubic feet with the second row removed.

The 2023 Audi Q5's interior design had remained largely unchanged since 2018 but continued to offer a well-thought-out layout. The infotainment touchscreen was positioned for easy visibility, and traditional dials and buttons were used for climate controls. The Q5 provided good outward visibility, with ample space for taller passengers in both the front and rear seats. Storage options were available, though some were oddly sized. The Q5 offered 25.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, slightly less in the Sportback model, but still competitive within its class.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, offering a user-friendly interface and customizable profiles. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The available FamCam system allowed parents to monitor rear-seat passengers. 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 2023 Audi Q5 came standard with a 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen, offering sharp graphics and quick responses. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available across all trims. Higher trims featured a Bang & Olufsen audio system. The Q5 could be monitored remotely via a smartphone app, and mid-range trims included a customizable digital instrument panel. Audi Connect Care services were available for a limited time, providing features like a Wi-Fi hotspot.

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 2023 Audi Q5 received five stars from the NHTSA for overall, frontal, and side protection, and four stars in rollover tests. The IIHS awarded it a Top Safety Pick+ rating. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims added lane-keep assist, a surround-view camera system, and traffic jam assist. The top Prestige trim offered matrix-design LED headlights and a head-up display.