2022 Jeep Wrangler vs 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler offered a choice between the classic two-door and the more practical four-door body style. Buyers could select from a variety of powertrains, including a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, a gasoline-powered V6, a turbodiesel V6, a gas V8, or the Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid. The standard six-speed manual transmission could be upgraded to an eight-speed automatic, and four-wheel drive was standard across all trims. The Wrangler came in four core trim levels: Sport, Sport S, Sahara, and Rubicon, with numerous special editions like the Willys and Willys Sport. The High Tide model, a US-market special edition, was based on the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sport S trim and included features like LED exterior lighting and a body-colour hardtop. Despite its rugged appeal, the Wrangler's interior was basic, with a focus on durability over luxury.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, available in Touring L, Limited, and Pinnacle trims, presented a more refined and practical option. Our test vehicle, the mid-trim Limited with the S Appearance Package, featured body-coloured door handles and mirrors, gloss black accents, and 18-inch wheels. The Pacifica Hybrid's interior was sophisticated, with Nappa leather seats and a well-designed dashboard. The minivan's practicality was enhanced by sliding doors and ample cargo space, although the hybrid model lacked some features like all-wheel drive and a towing package. The Pacifica Hybrid's interior was comfortable, with heated and cooled front seats and a heated steering wheel, making it a family-friendly choice.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler was equipped with a 3.6-litre V6 engine featuring eTorque mild-hybrid electrification, delivering 285 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 260 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and the optional Selec-Trac full-time 4WD system, the Wrangler was designed for off-road adventures. However, its fuel consumption was high, averaging 14.0 L/100 km over a week of testing. The Wrangler's driving experience was unique, offering an immersive and rugged ride that appealed to off-road enthusiasts despite its loud cabin and frequent fuel stops.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid combined a 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine with a 16-kWh battery and two electric motors, offering 260 horsepower and 230 lb-ft of torque. It was the only minivan available as a plug-in hybrid, with an official all-electric range of 51 kilometres and a total range of 784 kilometres. Our testing exceeded these figures, achieving 53 km of electric range and 885 km of total range. The Pacifica Hybrid's driving experience was smooth, with a continuously variable transmission and a lower centre of gravity for better handling. However, its electric power delivery was limited to all-electric mode first, which could be less efficient for highway commutes.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler's interior was rugged and utilitarian, with comfortable seats and durable cloth upholstery. However, getting in and out was challenging, especially with a raised suspension. Visibility was a mixed bag, with some areas requiring adjustments for better sightlines. The Wrangler Unlimited offered 898 litres of cargo space behind the rear seat, expanding to 2,050 litres with the rear seat folded. Storage options were limited, with small compartments and netting for organization.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in interior space and comfort, with features like the FamCam interior camera for monitoring rear passengers. The minivan's seats were comfortable, with heated and cooled options for the front row. The Pacifica Hybrid offered 914 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,477 litres with the seats folded. While the hybrid model lacked the Stow 'n Go seats due to battery placement, it still provided ample storage for families.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler's infotainment system was basic, with a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Optional upgrades included a larger 8.4-inch touchscreen with satellite radio and a premium audio system. The Wrangler also featured remote engine starting, satellite radio, and a passive keyless entry system, with heated front seats and a heated steering wheel for added comfort.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted a 10.1-inch touchscreen with Uconnect 5, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Our tester included an optional rear seat entertainment system with two 10-inch screens for second-row passengers. The Pacifica Hybrid featured numerous USB ports, 12-volt outlets, and wireless charging, ensuring devices remained powered throughout journeys.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler included the Safety Group and Advanced Safety Group, offering features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. However, its crash-test ratings were mediocre, with a three-star rating for rollover resistance from the NHTSA and Marginal ratings from the IIHS. Safety features were optional, and the Wrangler required careful driving due to its design.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid came with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. The 2022 version received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, and the IIHS awarded it Good marks in most categories. However, some features like parking assist required additional packages or trims.