2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2022 Hyundai Kona

The 2022 Hyundai Kona received a notable makeover, enhancing its sophistication with a longer body, revised grille, and new LED lighting. The sporty character lines and alloy wheel designs added to its appeal, while the interior updates, such as the separated instrument panel and ambient lighting, provided a more spacious and refined look. The introduction of the N Line and Kona N trims brought unique styling elements, including body-colour cladding and exclusive interior features, elevating the Kona's athletic appearance. Our test vehicle, a Kona N Line, impressed with its streamlined proportions, Surfy Blue exterior, and sporty interior accents, offering a fit and finish appropriate for its price point.

In contrast, the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, while not a visual standout, offered practicality and efficiency. Despite its minivan image, it provided a unique plug-in hybrid option with a substantial electric-only range. The Pacifica Hybrid's interior featured quality materials and comfort-focused amenities, such as triple-zone climate control and heated seats. However, its rounded styling appeared dated compared to more modern designs. The Pacifica Hybrid's practicality shone through with its spacious interior, accommodating up to seven passengers comfortably, and offering ample cargo space, making it a versatile choice for families prioritizing efficiency and utility.

The 2022 Hyundai Kona offered a diverse range of powertrains, catering to different performance preferences. The base trims featured a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 147 horsepower, while the N Line trim boasted a turbocharged 1.6-litre engine delivering 195 horsepower. The high-performance Kona N took it further with a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine producing 276 horsepower, paired with an N eight-speed wet DCT. The Kona N's performance features, such as launch control and an electronic limited-slip differential, enhanced its driving dynamics. Our test vehicle, a Kona N Line, provided a spirited driving experience with its turbocharged engine and AWD, offering agility and stability in various driving conditions.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid combined a 3.6-litre V6 engine with a dual-motor electric drive system, producing a total 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 regenerative braking system contributed to its efficiency, achieving an average fuel economy of 6.3 litres per 100 kilometres. While the Pacifica Hybrid's powertrain impressed with its seamless transition between electric and gasoline modes, its driving dynamics were less engaging, with light steering and unremarkable regenerative brakes. However, its ability to handle speed humps with ease was noteworthy.

The 2022 Hyundai Kona, despite its compact size, offered commendable front-seat comfort with ample headroom and legroom. However, rear-seat occupants faced challenges with limited space and small door openings. The Kona's cargo space, at 544 litres with all seats up, was tight, requiring rear seat folding to access 1,296 litres of space. Towing was not recommended, limiting its utility for larger loads.

In contrast, the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, offering three comfortable rows of seats and substantial cargo space. The Pacifica Hybrid's interior featured quality leather upholstery, climate control, and ample storage options. Its second-row seats provided comfort and adjustability, while the third-row seat accommodated passengers with ease. The Pacifica Hybrid's cargo capacity reached 914 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,477 litres with the third row folded, and up to 3,978 litres with the second-row seats removed, surpassing many SUVs in cargo space.

The 2022 Hyundai Kona introduced more tech features, including an 8-inch display with Bluetooth connectivity and an optional 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation and HD Radio. The Kona N Line and Kona N offered advanced infotainment options, including a Harman Kardon audio system and wireless device charging. Hyundai BlueLink provided connected services, enhancing convenience and security. The Kona's infotainment system was user-friendly, with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, and the FamCam system for monitoring rear passengers. The system allowed for multiple user profiles and simultaneous Bluetooth pairing. However, voice recognition was inconsistent. The Pacifica Hybrid's optional 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system required adjustments for optimal sound quality. The rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV offered diverse entertainment options, though personal devices were preferred by passengers.

The 2022 Hyundai Kona provided essential safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, and driver attention warning. Optional technologies included adaptive cruise control and blind-spot warning. The Kona received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and "Good" ratings from the IIHS, with a "Superior" rating for vehicle-to-vehicle front crash protection.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. However, its adaptive cruise control required refinement. The Pacifica Hybrid 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.