2023 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 somewhat dated. The F Sport models featured sporty touches like Scored Aluminum trim and NuLuxe synthetic leather. However, comfort was compromised by less-than-ideal seating and limited lumbar support.

In contrast, the 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, particularly in the Limited trim with the S Appearance Package, offered a practical and sophisticated design. The exterior featured body-coloured accents and black badging, complemented by 18-inch wheels. The Pacifica Hybrid's interior was dark but sophisticated, with Nappa leather seats and a well-designed dashboard. The minivan's practicality was enhanced by features like the FamCam interior camera, heated and cooled front seats, and a spacious third row. However, the Pacifica Hybrid's versatility was limited by the absence of Stow 'n Go seats due to the battery placement. Despite this, the Pacifica Hybrid provided ample cargo space and a comfortable ride for passengers.

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 model combined a V6 with two electric motors for a total of 308 horsepower. All RX 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 performance dampers and adaptive variable suspension, but the drive modes offered minimal changes in driving dynamics. The RX excelled in comfort and cabin quietness, absorbing road imperfections and providing a serene driving experience. Fuel efficiency varied, with the RX 350 consuming 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 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 pound-feet of torque. It was the only minivan available as a plug-in hybrid, with an all-electric range of 51 kilometres and a total range of 784 kilometres. In testing, the Pacifica Hybrid exceeded these estimates, achieving 53 km of electric range and 885 km of total range. The Pacifica Hybrid's electric power delivery defaulted to all-electric mode first, which was efficient in city driving but less so on the highway. The minivan's front-wheel drive configuration limited its versatility compared to gasoline-only models. Despite this, the Pacifica Hybrid provided a smooth and comfortable driving experience, with a CVT that operated seamlessly.

The 2022 Lexus RX offered 2,826 litres of passenger volume in its two-row configuration, comfortably accommodating four adults. The three-row L models provided a 2/3/2 seating configuration, but space was limited for anything beyond groceries. Cargo space varied, with 453 litres behind the second row in the standard RX and 210 litres in the three-row version. 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's load-in height was high.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in interior space and practicality. The FamCam interior camera allowed parents to monitor children in the second and third rows. The minivan's seats were comfortable, with heated and cooled front seats and a spacious third row. However, the absence of Stow 'n Go seats in the hybrid model reduced its versatility. Cargo space was generous, with 914 litres behind the third row and 3,978 litres with all seats folded. Despite this, competitors like the Kia Carnival and Honda Odyssey offered more overall space.

The 2022 Lexus RX featured an 8-inch touchscreen display, with a 12.3-inch version available for the 450h L and other trims. The touchscreens were positioned atop the centre stack, creating ergonomic challenges. The infotainment system was responsive, but the touchpad was hypersensitive and frustrating 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 provided additional personalization options.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid came with a 10.1-inch touchscreen running Uconnect 5, known for its ease of use and crisp graphics. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity were standard, along with the ability to connect two phones via Bluetooth. The optional rear seat entertainment system added two 10-inch screens for second-row passengers, but its value was questionable given the prevalence of personal devices. The Pacifica Hybrid offered numerous charging options, including USB ports, 12-volt outlets, and wireless charging.

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 designation 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.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The forward collision warning system provided both visual and audible alerts. However, features like parallel parking assist required additional packages. The 2022 Pacifica received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, while the IIHS rated it Good in most categories, with some areas needing improvement.