2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2022 Kia Sorento

The 2022 Kia Sorento, particularly in the X-Line trim, presented a stylish and rugged appearance. This midsize SUV was enhanced with rugged bumpers, matte-finish wheels, black lower body cladding, and robust roof rails, giving it a distinctive presence. In the U.S., the X-Line was a package applied to the top trim, while in Canada, it was a standalone mid-grade package. Canadian Sorentos came standard with all-wheel drive, including the hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, with pricing starting from $34,595 to $48,085 for the gas-only version and from $36,695 for the hybrid. The Sorento's interior exuded quality, with leather upholstery and simulated wood trim, and the cabin reflected rock-solid construction. Despite its stylish interior, the Sorento maintained practical storage space, making it a great deal for buyers.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, available in Touring L, Limited, and Pinnacle trims, offered a practical choice for families. Our test vehicle, the mid-trim Limited with the S Appearance Package, featured body-coloured door handles, gloss black accents, and 18-inch wheels. The Pacifica Hybrid's split grille was flanked by LED headlamps, and the LED tail lamps spanned the rear width. While minivans lacked the cool factor of SUVs, they provided more cargo space and sliding doors. The Limited's interior, though dark, was sophisticated with Nappa leather seats and a few sweeping lines on the dash. However, the proximity of the HVAC and audio knobs to the transmission selector dial could cause confusion.

The 2022 Kia Sorento's standard engine was a 191-horsepower 2.5-litre four-cylinder, which took nearly 9.5 seconds to reach 60 mph. However, the turbocharged 2.5-litre engine, available from the X-Line trim, delivered 281 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque, making it more enjoyable to drive. This engine was paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automated manual transmission, allowing the Sorento to reach 60 mph in about 7.5 seconds. The SUV's suspension provided a blend of compliance and composure, making it feel more like a sports sedan. Fuel consumption was higher than expected, with an average of 11.5 L/100 km during testing.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid combined a 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine with a 16-kWh battery and two electric motors, offering 51 km of all-electric range and 784 km of total range. In testing, it achieved 53 km of electric range and 885 km of total range. Charging the battery on a Level 2 home charger took two hours, while a standard outlet would take 14 hours. The Pacifica defaulted to all-electric mode before switching to hybrid mode, which was efficient in the city but less so on the highway. The Pacifica Hybrid was front-wheel drive only and lacked a spare tire and towing package. It delivered 260 hp and 230 lb-ft of torque, with a smooth CVT and light steering.

The 2022 Kia Sorento's interior felt luxurious, with Burgundy leather and heated and ventilated front seats. Second-row captain's chairs were standard from the EX trim, with heated options in higher trims. The third-row seat was cramped, making it better suited for children. Cargo space was limited with the third row up but expanded significantly when folded. The Sorento featured a "smart" power tailgate for easy loading.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid offered the FamCam interior camera, allowing parents to monitor children in the second and third rows. The front seats were heated and cooled, with a comfortable driver's seat. Second-row seats were comfortable but low, and the third row was spacious enough for adults. The Pacifica Hybrid lacked Stow 'n Go seats due to the battery placement, reducing versatility. Cargo space was ample, with 914 litres behind the third row and 3,978 litres with all seats folded. However, it lacked features like a built-in vacuum cleaner and heated second-row seats.

The 2022 Kia Sorento featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system in lower trims, while higher trims had a 10.25-inch display with navigation, satellite radio, and smartphone integration. The system was intuitive but had a unique design. A 12-speaker Bose audio system was reserved for the SX trim, and a wireless phone charger was standard from the LX Premium trim.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid came with a 10.1-inch touchscreen running Uconnect 5, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The optional rear seat entertainment system added two 10-inch screens for second-row passengers, with streaming capabilities. The Pacifica Hybrid had numerous USB ports, 12-volt outlets, and wireless charging, ensuring devices stayed charged.

The 2022 Kia Sorento offered a comprehensive list of safety features, including a rear-seat reminder system, Junction Assist, and a Blind View Monitor. Highway Driving Assist provided Level 2 semi-autonomous driving. The Sorento received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid included standard safety features like blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. Some features, like parking assist, required additional packages. The 2022 Pacifica received a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA and Good marks from the IIHS, except for Marginal grades for seat belt reminders and Average grades for headlights and LATCH ease of use.