2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE 53 Coupe presented a design that was neither offensive nor particularly striking, with its Selenite Gray paint and 22-inch forged aluminum wheels. The SUV's styling, reminiscent of an athletic sneaker from certain angles, was complemented by polished brightwork. Inside, the GLE 53 Coupe offered a luxurious experience with high-end materials, including Nappa premium leather and a Dinamica simulated suede headliner. The dual-screen instrumentation and infotainment system added a high-tech touch, though the lack of traditional controls required some acclimatization. Ambient lighting enhanced the driving experience, especially at night.

In contrast, the 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Limited, with the S Appearance Package, featured body-coloured door handles and mirrors, a gloss black grille surround, and black badging. The 18-inch wheels, described as having a "Foreshadow" finish, added to its aesthetic. The minivan's practicality was evident with its sliding doors and ample cargo space. Inside, the Limited trim offered a dark interior with Nappa leather seats and a sophisticated dash design. The HVAC and audio knobs were user-friendly, though their proximity to the transmission selector dial could cause confusion.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE 53 Coupe was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-6 engine, delivering 429 horsepower at 6,100 rpm and 384 pound-feet of torque from 1,800 to 5,800 rpm. The EQ Boost 48-volt mild-hybrid system provided additional power and improved fuel efficiency, with a tested consumption of 12.7 L/100 km. The AMG GLE 53 Coupe featured a SpeedShift nine-speed automatic transmission and an AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system, offering various driving modes. The adaptive damping control air suspension and AMG Active Ride Control suspension enhanced performance, though the 22-inch wheels and sporty tuning were less forgiving on rough roads. The SUV excelled in urban settings with its speed-sensitive steering and tight turning radius, while Sport+ mode showcased its performance capabilities on challenging roads.

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 official all-electric range of 51 km and a total range of 784 km. In testing, the Pacifica Hybrid exceeded these figures, achieving 53 km of electric range and 885 km of total range. The van's CVT operated smoothly, and the steering was light, suitable for a minivan. However, the Pacifica Hybrid's FWD configuration and lack of a towing package limited its versatility compared to non-hybrid models.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe accommodated up to five passengers, though it was more comfortable for four. The sport-bolstered front seats offered numerous adjustments, including heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The back seat provided ample legroom, and the cargo hold offered 655 litres of space, expandable to 1,790 litres with the rear seats folded. Comfort upgrades included a four-zone climate control system and an Air Balance fragrance system, enhancing the luxurious experience.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured the FamCam interior camera, allowing parents to monitor children in the second and third rows. The minivan's heated and cooled front seats and heated steering wheel added comfort, while the second-row seats were comfortable but low. The Pacifica Hybrid's cargo space was 914 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,477 litres with the seats folded. However, the lack of Stow 'n Go seats in the hybrid model reduced its versatility, and competitors offered more overall space.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe came with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring dual 12.3-inch screens and a range of standard features, including navigation, satellite radio, and smartphone connectivity. The system's natural voice recognition technology was a highlight, though the touchpad on the centre console could be inadvertently activated. Optional features included gesture recognition, augmented video navigation, and a Burmester 3D surround-sound system.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was equipped with a 10.1-inch touchscreen running Uconnect 5, offering wireless smartphone connectivity and the ability to connect two phones via Bluetooth. The optional rear seat entertainment system added two 10-inch screens for second-row passengers, though its value was questionable given the prevalence of personal devices. The Pacifica Hybrid featured numerous charging options, including USB ports, 12-volt outlets, and wireless charging.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe offered a range of safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Intelligent Drive Package added 13 additional systems, enhancing driver assistance and collision avoidance. The Active Lane Change Assist and Active Emergency Stop Assist systems were particularly impressive. While crash-test results for the GLE Coupe were unavailable, the standard GLE received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid included standard safety features such as blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. The forward collision warning system was effective, and the adaptive cruise control operated smoothly. Additional features, such as parking assist, required an upgrade. The 2022 Pacifica received a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA, and the IIHS gave it Good marks, with some exceptions.