2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS presented a more understated appearance in its base GLS 450 form, avoiding the flashy chrome embellishments seen on competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. Mercedes confidently steered clear of the ostentatious grilles found on the BMW X7 and Lexus LX. For those seeking a touch more flair, the AMG GLS 63 model offered enhanced visual drama with flared wheel arches, a robust grille, and distinctive exhaust tips. The Maybach version took luxury to another level with chrome accents, a traditional hood ornament, and optional 23-inch wheels. Inside, the GLS 450's interior, though basic by GLS standards, exuded luxury with leather upholstery, a panoramic roof, and ambient lighting. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen were seamlessly integrated, providing a high-quality feel without being overly delicate.

In contrast, the 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Limited with the S Appearance Package featured a sleek design with body-coloured door handles and gloss black accents. The split grille was flanked by LED headlamps, and the rear boasted LED tail lamps spanning its width. While minivans like the Pacifica lacked the SUV's cool factor, they offered practicality with sliding doors and ample cargo space. The interior, though predominantly black, was sophisticated with Nappa leather seats and a well-designed dash. The controls, however, were closely positioned, leading to potential confusion between the HVAC and transmission selector. Despite these minor issues, the Pacifica Hybrid provided a comfortable and practical environment for families.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 was powered by a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, supported by the Mercedes EQ Boost mild-hybrid system. This setup delivered 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, with an electric motor adding 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque in short bursts. The GLS 450's inline-six engine offered smooth performance, making it a suitable choice for a luxury SUV. However, the air suspension, while adjustable, lacked the refinement expected in a luxury vehicle, leading to excessive body motion over bumps. The GLS 450 had a towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms, which was competitive but not class-leading.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid combined a 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine with a 16-kWh battery and two electric motors, offering a unique plug-in hybrid option in the minivan segment. Official ratings indicated 51 kilometres of all-electric range and a total range of 784 kilometres. In practice, the Pacifica Hybrid exceeded these figures, achieving 53 km of electric range and 885 km of total range. Charging the battery on a Level 2 home charger took just two hours. However, the Pacifica's default to all-electric mode first was less efficient on highways, where the electric range depleted quickly. The Pacifica Hybrid was front-wheel drive only and lacked a towing package, limiting its versatility compared to gasoline-only models.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a seven-seat configuration with a 60/40 split-folding second-row bench and two third-row seats. An optional six-seat version replaced the bench with captain's chairs. The second-row seats could slide forward for third-row access, and the GLS boasted impressive legroom due to its long wheelbase. Cargo space was 355 litres with all seats in place, expanding to 2,400 litres with the second and third rows folded. The GLS featured power-folding seats and a power tailgate, with air suspension aiding cargo loading. However, the touchscreen was difficult to reach, and some ergonomic issues were noted.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured the FamCam interior camera, allowing parents to monitor children in the second and third rows. The interior included heated and cooled front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a comfortable driver's seat. The second-row seats were comfortable but low, and the third row offered ample space for adults. The Pacifica Hybrid's cargo space was 914 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,477 litres with the third row folded, and 3,978 litres with all seats down. However, the plug-in hybrid lacked the Stow 'n Go seats and built-in vacuum cleaner available in gasoline models.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came equipped with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring a 12.3-inch touchscreen, digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, navigation, and voice recognition. The system offered multiple control options, with voice recognition being the most user-friendly. The GLS also included augmented-reality navigation, though the embedded system occasionally suggested inefficient routes. Optional features included a Burmester audio system and a head-up display.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen with Uconnect 5, known for its user-friendly interface and crisp graphics. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with Bluetooth connectivity for two phones. The optional rear seat entertainment system added two 10-inch screens with apps and games, though 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 Mercedes-Benz GLS included standard safety features such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and Pre Safe, which prepared the vehicle for a potential collision. Optional features included a surround-view camera system and advanced driver-assistance technologies. Crash-test ratings were unavailable at the time of publication.

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 was particularly effective, providing clear alerts. However, features like parking assist required additional packages. The 2022 Pacifica received a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA, and the 2023 model was expected to perform similarly.