2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2023 Lexus GX

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 an electric-only driving range that no three-row SUV from a mainstream brand could match. However, its styling was considered soft and dated, and it wasn't cheap, with the Limited trim costing over $60,000 before incentives. The interior featured quality materials, but Chrysler made no attempt to disguise its minivan identity.

In contrast, the 2023 Lexus GX presented a bold and commanding presence with its massive spindle grille and high ground clearance. The Black Line Special Edition added exclusivity with limited production and unique paint options. Despite its luxury badge, the GX's design leaned towards a sleeker aesthetic compared to Toyota's blocky designs. The interior, however, was marred by an abundance of plastic materials, which detracted from its luxury appeal. While it offered some luxury touches like heated and cooled seats, the GX's low sales volume meant Lexus focused on easy manufacturing rather than extensive updates.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured 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, 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 helped extend the electric range, and the transition between electric and gasoline power was seamless. However, the driving experience was described as dull, with light steering and unremarkable regenerative brakes.

The 2023 Lexus GX was powered by a 4.6-litre V8 engine producing 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. While it didn't excel on paper compared to more modern engines, the V8 provided a satisfying linear power delivery. The GX had a towing capacity of 2,948 kilograms, but its fuel economy was less impressive, with estimates of 16.2 L/100 km in the city and 14.5 combined. The GX's weight affected its handling, but its roll was predictable and controllable. The Torsen limited-slip differential and 4WD system enhanced its off-road capabilities.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, offering three comfortable rows of seats and ample cargo space. It featured triple-zone 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 seats, and the third-row seat provided reasonable comfort. The Pacifica Hybrid offered 914 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 2,477 litres with the third row folded, and up to 3,978 litres with the second row removed.

The 2023 Lexus GX provided ample cubby space for small items, with a deep centre console bin and convenient cupholders. The decision to use hard buttons instead of touch interfaces was appreciated, though the abundance of buttons required familiarization. The second row was comfortable, with captain's chairs and fold-out cupholders. However, the third row was too tight for regular use. The GX's side-hinged trunk door was cumbersome, and its cargo space was limited, offering only 328 litres behind the rear seats, expandable to 1,322 litres with the third row folded, and 1,832 litres with both rows down.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, offering appealing graphics and a user-friendly interface. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the FamCam overhead camera system was a useful feature for parents. However, the voice recognition technology was inconsistent. The optional 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system required adjustments for optimal sound quality. The rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV was available but not widely used by passengers.

The 2023 Lexus GX's infotainment system, updated in 2022, already felt dated compared to other Lexus models. The 10.3-inch touchscreen was an improvement, offering SiriusXM, Bluetooth, and smartphone compatibility. However, the graphics and responsiveness lagged behind competitors. The GX's tech offerings were overshadowed by its off-road capabilities, with features like a real 4WD system, downhill assist, and the Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System enhancing its performance in challenging conditions.

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 required refinement, as it was slow to respond to changes in traffic conditions.

The 2023 Lexus GX had not been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS, but it featured the Lexus Safety System+ with automatic emergency braking, lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and more. Despite its older design, the GX incorporated modern safety technology to enhance driver assistance.