2023 Kia Sportage vs 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

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 an SUV, it provided the convenience of sliding side doors, making it easier to load children in tight spaces. The Pacifica Hybrid was unique in its class as a plug-in hybrid minivan, offering a combination of practicality and eco-friendliness that was unmatched by any three-row SUV from mainstream brands. However, its styling was considered soft and dated, and it wasn't cheap, with the base model starting at $55,995 before destination charges.

In contrast, the 2023 Kia Sportage arrived with a completely redesigned look that was both exciting and exotic. Its styling was reminiscent of French automakers, with standout features like boomerang-shaped daytime running lights and textured metal trim on the D Pillar. The Sportage was available in five trim levels, with AWD standard on most. Inside, Kia opted for synthetic leather upholstery, which, while durable, didn't quite match the feel of real leather. The Sportage's interior was spacious, with a large front windshield and a low beltline for better visibility. However, some design choices, like touch-sensitive HVAC controls, were seen as overcomplicated.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was equipped with a plug-in hybrid drivetrain based on a 3.6-litre V6 engine paired with a dual-motor electric drive system, delivering a total of 260 horsepower. The electric drive system provided immediate torque, and the van could travel up to 51 kilometres on electric power alone. The Pacifica Hybrid's regenerative braking system helped capture energy, contributing to an average fuel economy of 6.3 litres per 100 kilometres. While the driving experience was not particularly exciting, the powertrain's efficiency and seamless transition between electric and gasoline modes were impressive.

The 2023 Kia Sportage, on the other hand, featured a 2.5-litre inline four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, offering slightly better fuel economy than its predecessor. However, the lack of a turbocharged engine option, which was available in the previous generation, left some drivers wanting more power. The Sportage's AWD models offered 21 centimetres of ground clearance, making it capable of handling off-road conditions. Despite its capabilities, the Sportage's performance was not as punchy as some might have hoped.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, offering three comfortable rows of seats and ample cargo space. With triple-zone automatic climate control, quality leather upholstery, and heated and ventilated front seats, it provided a comfortable ride. The Pacifica Hybrid's interior was well-designed, with plenty of storage options and a spacious cargo area. However, maximizing cargo space required removing the second-row seats, which was not as convenient as the Stow n' Go seats in the standard Pacifica.

The 2023 Kia Sportage, as a compact crossover, offered impressive interior space, with rear-seat legroom of 1,050 mm and a trunk capacity of 1,121 litres. The Sportage's interior featured decent storage space and a panoramic sunroof option. However, the use of touch-sensitive buttons for HVAC controls was seen as a drawback, as it complicated basic functions. Despite this, the Sportage's interior was spacious and well-suited for families.

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. While the system was generally user-friendly, the voice recognition technology was hit-and-miss. The Pacifica Hybrid also offered a 20-speaker Harman Kardon premium sound system, although the sound quality required some adjustment.

The 2023 Kia Sportage boasted a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system on higher trims, paired with a digital instrument cluster on the X-Line Limited. While the system was visually impressive, the lack of wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on the top interface was puzzling. The Sportage offered Bluetooth, keyless entry, and a Harman Kardon audio system on the X-Line Limited trim. However, the similarity of icons on the screen made it challenging to navigate while driving.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was equipped with a comprehensive package of standard driver-assist and collision-avoidance features. It earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. However, the adaptive cruise control system needed refinement, as it was slow to recognize changes in traffic conditions.

The 2023 Kia Sportage offered a range of collision-avoidance tech and advanced driver assistance systems as standard equipment. Higher trims added features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and highway driving assist. The Sportage's blind-view monitor was particularly impressive, although it was only available on the X-Line Limited trim. As of the time of writing, the Sportage had not yet been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS.