2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2023 Land Rover Defender

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, despite its minivan label, offered a practical and efficient solution for families. 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 stood out as a unique offering, being the only plug-in hybrid minivan available, with no direct competitors in the three-row SUV segment. Its design, though not particularly striking, was functional, and the interior, with its black Nappa leather, exuded a sense of quality. However, the styling appeared somewhat dated compared to more modern, angular designs.

In contrast, the 2023 Land Rover Defender captured attention with its boxy, classic truck design, reminiscent of the old LR4. Its industrial design was consistent, with square-jawed features and steep angles, giving it a rugged, off-road-ready appearance. The Defender's design paid homage to its 1980s predecessor with tasteful accents like the dome and faux-metal step plates. Available in three body styles, the Defender offered versatility and choice, appealing to those seeking a vehicle with a strong off-road character. Despite its high price, the Defender's unique design and off-road capabilities made it a popular choice in Canada.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in efficiently transporting up to seven people with its plug-in hybrid drivetrain. It combined a 3.6-litre V6 engine with a dual-motor electric drive system, delivering a total output 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 51 kilometres on electric power alone, making it ideal for short commutes and errands. The regenerative braking system further enhanced efficiency, capturing energy during coasting. The Pacifica Hybrid achieved an average fuel economy of 6.3 litres per 100 kilometres, outperforming its rival, the Toyota Sienna, in terms of power and efficiency.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender, on the other hand, was a beast off-road, with its permanent four-wheel drive and Terrain Response 2 system. It offered a range of engines, including a turbocharged inline-six and a supercharged V8. The V8, with 518 horsepower and 461 pound-feet of torque, provided exhilarating performance, akin to a speedboat engine in a trawler. The six-cylinder engine, part of a mild hybrid system, delivered 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque, offering a balance of power and efficiency. However, the Defender's on-road performance was less impressive, with excessive body roll and wind noise. Its fuel economy varied, with the V8 being the least efficient, but the mild-hybrid inline-six offered a reasonable balance.

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 abundant, with extra shelves, a large floor tray, and a long storage bin. The second-row seats were more comfortable than the standard Pacifica's Stow n' Go chairs, and the third-row seat provided reasonable comfort. The Pacifica Hybrid offered 914 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,477 litres with the third row folded. Removing the second-row seats increased cargo capacity to 3,978 litres, surpassing many full-size SUVs.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender offered unmatched seating configurations, with the ability to seat up to eight passengers. The Defender 90 featured a jump seat, allowing three across in the front, while the 110 and 130 models offered optional third rows. The Defender 130 provided a total of 2,180 litres of cargo space with the third row and second row folded. The Defender's large glass areas and panoramic moonroof enhanced visibility, and it offered a range of features, including off-road tires, a metal roof rack, and various accessories. The Defender's interior was functional, with options like a console refrigerator and a pressurized water rinse system.

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. The system allowed for five user profiles and simultaneous Bluetooth pairing for two devices. However, the voice recognition technology was inconsistent. The Pacifica Hybrid also offered a 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system and an Amazon Fire TV rear-seat entertainment system. The surround-view camera system and parking assist system added convenience, although the latter was not a substitute for driving skills.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender came with two touchscreen infotainment systems running Pivi Pro software. The standard 10-inch screen and optional 11.4-inch touchscreen were quick and easy to operate. The Defender offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, a voice assistant, and connected apps. Heated front seats, keyless entry, and heated power-folding mirrors were standard. Higher trims added features like air suspension, a locking rear differential, and a head-up display. The Defender's technology package was comprehensive, enhancing both convenience and off-road capability.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including a rear-seat reminder system. 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 respond to changing traffic conditions. The Pacifica's safety features provided peace of mind, but the adaptive cruise control's performance was a notable drawback.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender received a five-star rating in Euro NCAP crash testing, praised for its solid structure. It came equipped with six airbags, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. The Defender offered advanced features like a digital instrument panel, head-up display, and a 360-degree camera system. However, it lacked front knee airbags and rear side thorax airbags, which was a concern for some buyers.