2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2022 Lexus RX

The 2022 Lexus RX presented a modern and sporty design, continuing the aesthetic updates from its 2020 facelift. Available in both standard and long-wheelbase versions, the RX 350 offered seating for five, while the RX 450h hybrid model provided a three-row, 7-passenger option. The RX's exterior was characterized by sharp character lines and angular features, creating an aggressive yet restrained design. The F Sport models added a performance-oriented look with 20-inch wheels and unique styling elements. Inside, the RX maintained a luxury appeal with high-quality materials, though the centre stack felt dated. The F Sport models added sporty touches, but the seats were less comfortable, and finding an ideal driving position was challenging.

In contrast, the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was not a standout in terms of looks, even with the S Appearance Package. However, it offered a practical and efficient package for transporting up to seven people. The interior featured quality leather upholstery, triple-zone climate control, and ample storage options. The second-row seats were more comfortable than the standard Pacifica's Stow n’ Go chairs, though they required removal for maximum cargo space. The third-row seat provided reasonable comfort, and the Pacifica Hybrid offered impressive cargo capacity, with up to 3,978 litres available when the second-row seats were removed.

The 2022 Lexus RX 350 was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, while the RX 450h hybrid added two electric motors for a combined output of 308 hp. All models featured an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. Despite its sporty appearance, the RX's performance was underwhelming, with a lack of engine growl and unimpressive acceleration. The F Sport models included adaptive suspension and additional drive modes, but changes in driving dynamics were minimal. The RX excelled in comfort and cabin quietness, with a compliant ride and isolated road noise. Fuel consumption for the RX 350 was 12.2 L/100 km in the city and 9.0 on the highway, while the RX 450h hybrid achieved 7.9 L/100 km combined.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured a plug-in hybrid drivetrain with a 3.6-litre V6 engine and a dual-motor electric drive system, producing 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 extend the electric range, and the transition between electric and gasoline power was nearly seamless. The Pacifica Hybrid achieved an average fuel economy of 6.3 L/100 km. While the driving experience was not exciting, the powertrain's efficiency and ability to handle speed humps impressed. The steering was light, and the regenerative brakes occasionally felt too grabby, but the Pacifica Hybrid's performance was commendable for its powertrain brilliance.

The 2022 Lexus RX offered 2,826 litres of passenger volume in its two-row configuration, comfortably seating four adults. The three-row L models had limited space for anything beyond groceries, with a 2/3/2 seating configuration. Cargo space in the standard RX was 453 litres behind the second row, expanding to 923 litres with the seats folded. The three-row models provided 210 litres with all seats upright, increasing to 1,657 litres with both back rows down. The RX featured thoughtful interior elements like a smartphone slot and adjustable-height cup holder, but the rear seats did not fold completely flat, and the cargo area had a high load-in height.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, offering three comfortable rows of seats and significant cargo space. The interior featured triple-zone climate control, quality leather upholstery, and ample storage options. The second-row seats were more comfortable than the standard Pacifica's Stow n’ Go chairs, though they required removal for maximum cargo space. The third-row seat provided reasonable comfort, and the Pacifica Hybrid offered impressive cargo capacity, with up to 3,978 litres available when the second-row seats were removed. The Pacifica Hybrid's design facilitated easy access to storage and passenger areas, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2022 Lexus RX came with an 8-inch touchscreen display, with a 12.3-inch version available on higher trims. The touchscreens were moved closer to the driver in the 2020 refresh, but the positioning remained ergonomically unfriendly. The infotainment system included voice commands and a touchpad, though the latter was difficult to use. The RX offered a range of tech features, including six USB ports, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, Bluetooth, wireless charging, and a WiFi hotspot. The Lexus App allowed for remote engine start and vehicle settings customization.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen display. The system offered appealing graphics, a simple user interface, and quick response times. It supported simultaneous Bluetooth pairing, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The FamCam overhead camera system allowed parents to monitor rear-seat passengers. The Pacifica Hybrid also offered a 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system and an available rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV. The surround-view camera system and parking assist features added convenience, though the voice recognition technology was inconsistent.

The 2022 Lexus RX was equipped with the Lexus Safety System 2.0+, which included adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, road-sign recognition, and a pre-collision system. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a head-up display. The RX received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, but only with optional triple-beam LED headlights. It scored four stars overall from the NHTSA, with five stars in side crash tests and four in frontal crashes and rollover resistance.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including a rear-seat reminder system. It offered adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and lane-keeping assist. However, the adaptive cruise control needed refinement, as it was slow to resume speed and braked too hard 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 four stars in frontal-impact protection.