2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, despite its minivan status, offered a practical solution for families needing efficient transportation. While it didn't boast the rugged appeal of an SUV, it provided the convenience of sliding side doors, making it easier to load children in tight spaces. The Pacifica Hybrid was not a standout in terms of aesthetics, even with the S Appearance Package, and its price point was on the higher side. However, it was a unique offering as a plug-in hybrid minivan, with no direct competitors in the market.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, on the other hand, maintained its reputation for luxury and ruggedness. With its extended length, it offered more space without compromising the classic Jeep style. The High Altitude package added a bold look with blacked-out elements and dark grey wheels. Inside, the Grand Cherokee L impressed with its upscale materials and design, although some lower-grade plastics were present. The vehicle's handling was top-notch, providing a comfortable ride with its air suspension, making it a strong contender in the midsize SUV segment.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured a plug-in hybrid drivetrain with a 3.6-litre V6 engine paired with a dual-motor electric drive system, delivering a total of 260 horsepower. It could travel up to 51 kilometres on electric power alone, making it ideal for short commutes. 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 driving experience was not thrilling, the powertrain's efficiency and seamless transition between electric and gasoline modes were commendable.

In contrast, the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's standard 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine produced 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, but it was criticized for its lack of low-end torque. The optional 5.7-litre Hemi V8 engine offered 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, significantly improving towing capacity and performance. The Grand Cherokee L's chassis provided confident handling, and its air suspension allowed for adjustable ground clearance. Fuel economy varied, with the V6 achieving 11.3 litres per 100 kilometres combined, while the V8 was less efficient at 14.1 litres per 100 kilometres.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, offering three rows of comfortable seating and ample cargo space. It featured triple-zone climate control, quality leather upholstery, and numerous storage solutions. The second-row seats were more comfortable than the standard Pacifica's Stow n’ Go seats, although they required manual removal for maximum 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 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L benefited from its extended wheelbase, providing more legroom for second-row passengers. It offered standard second-row captain's chairs and optional bench seating. The third row was best suited for children, and the power-folding feature added convenience. Cargo space was generous, with 481 litres behind the third row, 1,330 litres behind the second row, and 2,407 litres with both rows folded. The Grand Cherokee L's interior featured a well-organized dashboard with easy access to controls, although some infotainment graphics were difficult to read.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was equipped with the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, featuring a 10.1-inch touchscreen with user-friendly controls and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The FamCam overhead camera system was a standout feature for parents. However, the voice recognition system had room for improvement. The optional 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system required adjustments for optimal sound quality. The rear-seat entertainment system offered Amazon Fire TV, but personal devices were often preferred by passengers.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L came with Uconnect 5, offering an 8.4-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen depending on the trim. The system was generally easy to use, although some graphics were hard to decipher. The McIntosh sound system provided good audio quality, and the night vision feature was impressive. The Grand Cherokee L also offered advanced features like Active Driving Assist and a passenger screen that allowed for independent media control and navigation assistance.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted a comprehensive suite of safety features, including a rear-seat reminder system. It earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. However, its adaptive cruise control system needed refinement, particularly in recognizing lane departures and moderating speed in traffic.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L also received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS for models built after May 2023 and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It offered a range of standard safety features, including forward emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring. Optional features included night vision and Active Driving Assist, enhancing its safety credentials.