2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid

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, while not particularly striking, was functional, and the interior, though somewhat dated in style, provided a comfortable and quality feel with premium leather upholstery. The Pacifica Hybrid was priced on the higher side, but federal and provincial EV rebates made it more accessible.

In contrast, the 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid marked a significant departure from its predecessors with a more assertive and truck-like design. The new model was longer and wider, giving it a more muscular stance. The CR-V Hybrid retained its classic D-pillar taillights but updated them for a modern look. The interior followed Honda's trend towards a more premium feel, with high-quality materials and attractive contrast stitching. The CR-V Hybrid's design was consistent with other Honda models, offering a cohesive and upscale experience.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured a plug-in hybrid drivetrain combining a 3.6-litre V6 engine with a dual-motor electric drive system, producing 260 horsepower. The electric motor provided immediate torque, and the van could travel up to 51 kilometres on electric power alone. The Pacifica Hybrid's regenerative braking system helped extend its range, achieving an average fuel economy of 6.3 litres per 100 kilometres. While the powertrain was impressive, the driving experience was less engaging, with light steering and unremarkable brakes. The Pacifica Hybrid excelled in efficiency but lacked excitement in its driving dynamics.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid, on the other hand, combined a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, delivering 204 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque. This made it the most powerful CR-V to date, with a top speed of 185 km/h. The CR-V Hybrid featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and four drive modes, including a new Snow mode. The updated Real Time AWD system improved traction, and the new "B" shifter position enhanced regenerative braking. The CR-V Hybrid achieved a combined fuel economy of 6.4 litres per 100 kilometres, making it more efficient than its non-hybrid counterparts.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, offering three comfortable rows of seats and ample cargo space. With 914 litres of cargo space behind the third row and up to 3,978 litres with the second-row seats removed, it provided more storage than many SUVs. The interior featured triple-zone climate control, quality leather upholstery, and numerous storage solutions. However, removing the second-row seats to maximize cargo space was cumbersome compared to SUVs with fold-flat seats.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid benefited from its larger exterior, translating to more interior volume. It offered 1,028 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 2,030 litres with them folded. The CR-V Hybrid's rear seat legroom increased, providing ample space for passengers. The interior featured thoughtful storage solutions, including a cubby for smartphones and eight cupholders. The CR-V Hybrid's design prioritized passenger comfort and practicality, making it a strong contender in the compact SUV segment.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was equipped with the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, featuring a 10.1-inch touchscreen display with appealing graphics and a user-friendly interface. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with SiriusXM satellite radio. The available FamCam overhead camera system was a useful feature for parents. However, the voice recognition technology was inconsistent, and the optional 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system required adjustments for optimal sound quality.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid offered a standard 7-inch touchscreen infotainment display with physical volume and tuning knobs, while the EX-L and Hybrid Touring trims featured a 9-inch touchscreen. The CR-V Hybrid was well-equipped with USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity, dual-zone climate control, and a 12-speaker Bose Premium audio system. The Hybrid Touring trim included Honda's smart navigation system, optimizing fuel efficiency based on the route. The CR-V Hybrid's technology package was comprehensive and user-friendly.

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 system required refinement, as it was slow to respond to changing traffic conditions. The Pacifica Hybrid 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 Honda CR-V Hybrid came with the Honda Sensing suite of advanced driver-assistance technologies, including improved collision mitigation, road-departure mitigation, and lane-keeping assist systems. New safety features for 2023 included traffic jam assist, traffic sign recognition, and low-speed braking control. The CR-V Hybrid also featured a blind-spot monitoring system and cross-traffic monitor. It received a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA, with additional structural enhancements for improved crash protection.