2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2023 Kia Telluride

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, despite its minivan label, offered a unique proposition as a plug-in hybrid vehicle. It wasn't the most visually appealing option, even with the S Appearance Package, and its price point was on the higher side, starting at $55,995. The interior, while comfortable with black Nappa premium leather, felt somewhat dated compared to more modern designs. Chrysler didn't attempt to disguise the Pacifica's minivan identity, unlike Kia's approach with the Carnival. However, the Pacifica Hybrid stood out as a rare plug-in hybrid minivan, offering practicality with its sliding doors and spacious interior, making it a compelling choice for those prioritizing efficiency and utility.

In contrast, the 2023 Kia Telluride presented a more rugged and stylish appearance with its updated front and rear styling, new wheel designs, and fresh paint colours. The X-Line and X-Pro models added a touch of off-road capability with raised suspensions and unique design elements. Inside, the Telluride featured a modern digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, enhancing its futuristic appeal. The interior updates, including new colours and a more functional centre console, contributed to a refined and comfortable cabin experience. Overall, the Telluride exuded a sense of adventure and sophistication, appealing to those seeking a versatile and stylish SUV.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was equipped with a 3.6-litre V6 engine paired with a dual-motor electric drive system, delivering a total output of 260 horsepower. Its plug-in hybrid system allowed for an electric-only range of up to 51 kilometres, making it ideal for short commutes and errands. The Pacifica Hybrid's powertrain seamlessly transitioned between electric and gasoline modes, providing a smooth and efficient driving experience. However, the driving dynamics were less engaging, with light steering and unremarkable regenerative brakes. Despite its practicality and efficiency, the Pacifica Hybrid's driving experience felt more like a utilitarian appliance.

The 2023 Kia Telluride, on the other hand, featured a robust 3.8-litre V6 engine producing 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. It offered multiple driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Smart, Sport, and Snow, along with an AWD system with a low-speed Lock setting. The Telluride's performance was impressive, with a fuel economy of 9.8 litres per 100 kilometres in the X-Line and 11.5 L/100 km in the X-Pro. The X-Pro model excelled in off-road conditions, thanks to its all-terrain tires and improved cooling system. On highways, the Telluride provided a smooth and comfortable ride, with responsive handling and minimal noise, making it a delightful vehicle to drive.

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. The second-row seats were more comfortable than the standard Stow n’ Go chairs, providing better legroom and adjustability. The Pacifica Hybrid offered 914 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 2,477 litres with the third row folded. Removing the second-row seats increased the cargo capacity to 3,978 litres, surpassing many SUVs. However, the process of removing the seats was less convenient than in some competitors.

The 2023 Kia Telluride accommodated seven or eight passengers, depending on the configuration. It featured premium Nappa leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, and heated and ventilated front- and second-row seats. The second row offered manual side-window sunshades, USB ports, and storage pockets. The third-row seat was more comfortable than in many midsize SUVs, providing reasonable leg support. The Telluride's cargo space was generous, with 601 litres behind the third row, expandable to 1,304 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum of 2,455 litres with both rear rows down. The smart power tailgate and ample storage options added to its practicality.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen display, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a FamCam overhead camera system. The system allowed for five user profiles and simultaneous Bluetooth pairing for two devices. However, the voice recognition technology was inconsistent, and the sound quality of the optional 20-speaker Harman Kardon system required adjustments. The rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV was available but not widely used by passengers with personal devices.

The 2023 Kia Telluride came standard with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and Kia Connect services. The voice recognition system performed well, though it didn't control the climate system. Over-the-air updates kept the system current, and six USB charging ports ensured power for all passengers. The Telluride also featured Driver Talk and Quiet Mode, a wireless phone charger, and a 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. New digital-key technology and a Full Display rear-view mirror added to its technological appeal.

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 system 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 Kia Telluride offered an extensive list of standard safety features, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian and cyclist detection, and automatic emergency braking. It also included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-centring assist. The adaptive cruise control system could adjust speed based on navigation data, and Highway Drive Assist 1.5 provided semi-autonomous driving assistance. The Telluride earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with NHTSA crash-test results pending.