2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2023 Subaru Outback

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was a unique offering in the minivan segment, particularly for those seeking a plug-in hybrid option. Despite its minivan status, which some might find less appealing compared to SUVs, it provided practical features like sliding side doors, making it convenient for families. The Pacifica Hybrid was not designed to hide its minivan identity, unlike some competitors, and its styling was considered soft and somewhat dated. The interior, however, offered quality materials like black Nappa leather, though the overall design did not attempt to disguise its minivan nature. The Pacifica Hybrid was priced on the higher side, with the Limited trim reaching $64,960, but federal and provincial EV rebates could make it more affordable.

In contrast, the 2023 Subaru Outback received a facelift that gave it a more aggressive appearance, with redesigned LED headlights, a restyled grille, and a revised bumper. The Outback's design changes were subjective, with some preferring darker paint colours to tone down the bold cladding. The Onyx Edition, with its black wheels and trim, complemented the new design well. The Outback offered a range of trims, with the Limited trim providing a premium interior experience. The Cosmic Blue paint and Java Brown Nappa leather upholstery added to its upscale feel. The Outback's interior was praised for its cohesive design, with thoughtful details like contrast stitching and practical features like flat door sills for roof rack access.

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, producing a total of 260 horsepower. The electric drive system provided immediate torque, and the Pacifica Hybrid could travel up to 51 kilometres on electric power alone. The regenerative braking system helped recharge the battery, and the transition between electric and gasoline power was seamless. The Pacifica Hybrid achieved an average fuel economy of 6.3 litres per 100 kilometres, outperforming its main rival, the Toyota Sienna, in terms of efficiency. However, the driving experience was described as dull, with light steering, unremarkable brakes, and limited cornering grip.

The 2023 Subaru Outback offered a choice between a standard 2.5-litre flat-four engine with 182 horsepower and a turbocharged 2.4-litre flat-four engine with 260 horsepower in the XT models. The standard engine struggled with power, especially during passing and climbing, and returned a fuel economy of 9.2 litres per 100 kilometres, higher than expected. The turbocharged XT models provided better performance but at the cost of fuel efficiency. The Outback's CVT was programmed to mimic an eight-speed automatic, and the Active Torque Split AWD system enhanced its off-road capabilities. The Outback excelled in handling challenging terrain, offering excellent ground clearance and an X-Mode traction system for off-road adventures. However, the standard engine's lack of power was a notable drawback.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, offering three comfortable rows of seats and ample cargo space. The interior featured quality leather upholstery, triple-zone automatic climate control, and heated and ventilated front seats. Storage options were abundant, with various bins and trays throughout the cabin. The second-row seats were more comfortable than the standard Pacifica's Stow n' Go seats, though they required 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 3,978 litres with the second row removed.

The 2023 Subaru Outback prioritized utility with features like a robust roof rack and practical interior design. The Limited trim offered a comfortable experience with power-adjustable front seats, heated seats, and premium Nappa leather upholstery. The Outback's interior was spacious, accommodating four adults comfortably on long trips. The cargo area provided 923 litres of space behind the rear seats, expanding to 2,141 litres with the seats folded. The Outback's high ground clearance made entry and exit easy, and the flat door sills served as steps for roof rack access. However, the Outback could benefit from additional storage solutions in the cabin.

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, SiriusXM satellite radio, and the FamCam overhead camera system for monitoring rear passengers. The system allowed for multiple user profiles and had a user-friendly interface, though the voice recognition technology was inconsistent. The optional 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system required adjustments for optimal sound quality. The Pacifica Hybrid also offered Amazon Fire TV for rear-seat entertainment, though it was not frequently used by passengers with personal devices.

The 2023 Subaru Outback came equipped with the Starlink 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The system included physical controls for essential functions, while other features were embedded in the touchscreen. The voice recognition system was less effective, making smartphone connectivity essential. Additional technologies included a camera-based digital rearview mirror and a 180-degree front-view camera. However, the Outback lacked a surround-view camera, which would have been a valuable addition.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and lane-keeping assist. However, the adaptive cruise control system required refinement, as it was slow to resume speed and braked too abruptly in certain situations. 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 Subaru Outback featured Subaru's EyeSight safety system, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-centring assist. The system added new pedestrian and cyclist detection capabilities, as well as an Automatic Emergency Steering system. The Outback received top safety ratings from the IIHS, including in the new side-impact crash test. However, the adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assist systems had an artificial feel, and the rear automatic braking system was incompatible with some driveways.