2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2022 Nissan Pathfinder

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder showcased a bold new design, drawing inspiration from Nissan's latest SUV styling trends. It featured a reimagined V-motion grille, reminiscent of the Rogue and Armada, with the new Nissan logo prominently displayed. The LED headlights and slim daytime running lights added a modern touch, while the C-pillar design paid homage to the original Pathfinder. With 11 paint options and a distinctive black roof, the Pathfinder offered a robust and contemporary aesthetic. The SUV's wider stance and increased height contributed to its rugged appearance, aligning it with competitors like the Kia Telluride. Inside, the Pathfinder provided a spacious and upscale environment, especially in higher trims, with seating configurations accommodating up to eight passengers.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, particularly in the Limited trim with the S Appearance Package, presented a sleek and practical design. The minivan featured body-coloured accents, gloss black grille surrounds, and 18-inch wheels with a "Foreshadow" finish. LED headlamps and tail lamps enhanced its modern look. While minivans may lack the allure of SUVs, the Pacifica Hybrid offered practicality with sliding doors and ample cargo space. The interior, though predominantly black in the Limited trim, boasted Nappa leather seats and a sophisticated dashboard design. The Pacifica Hybrid's interior was comfortable, with heated and cooled front seats, but taller passengers might find the second-row seating a bit low. The minivan's spacious third row and flat-folding seats added to its versatility, although the hybrid model sacrificed some features like Stow 'n Go seating and a built-in vacuum cleaner.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder retained its 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a new 9-speed automatic transmission, the Pathfinder offered smooth gear transitions and a stable ride. Standard all-wheel drive in Canada, along with hill descent control and seven drive modes, enhanced its capability. The Pathfinder's towing capacity reached 6,000 pounds, supported by trailer sway control technology. While the transmission occasionally struggled at speed, it recalibrated quickly, ensuring a comfortable driving experience. The Pathfinder's tight turning radius made it easy to maneuver in urban settings and off-road trails.

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 lb-ft of torque. It provided an all-electric range of 51 kilometres and a total range of 784 kilometres, with a combined fuel economy of 2.9 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres. The Pacifica Hybrid's electric power delivery defaulted to all-electric mode, which was efficient in city driving but less so on highways. The minivan's front-wheel-drive configuration limited its towing capacity compared to gasoline-only models. Despite these limitations, the Pacifica Hybrid offered a smooth driving experience with a continuously variable transmission and a lower centre of gravity for improved handling.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder prioritized interior comfort and flexibility. Enhanced insulation reduced road noise, while features like wide-opening doors and the EZ Flex Latch and Glide system facilitated easy access to the third row. The Pathfinder offered best-in-class front-seat legroom and ample hip room for third-row passengers. Its removable second-row centre console and generous cargo space, with up to 2,421 litres available, added to its practicality. The Pathfinder's interior was designed for family use, with heated and ventilated seats, tri-zone climate control, and numerous cup holders.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured innovative technology like the FamCam interior camera, allowing parents to monitor rear-seat passengers. The minivan's interior offered heated and cooled front seats, a comfortable driver's seat, and a spacious third row. However, the hybrid model lacked Stow 'n Go seating due to battery placement, reducing its versatility. Despite this, the Pacifica Hybrid provided ample cargo space, with up to 3,978 litres available when all seats were folded. The minivan's interior was well-equipped, though some features like heated second-row seats were unavailable in the hybrid model.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder came equipped with a range of standard technology features, including an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a six-speaker audio system. Upper trims offered a 9-inch touchscreen, a 13-speaker Bose audio system, and a fully digital instrument panel. The Pathfinder's technology was user-friendly and accessible across various trim levels, ensuring a connected driving experience.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen with Uconnect 5, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The optional rear seat entertainment system provided additional screens for second-row passengers, though it came at a significant cost. The Pacifica Hybrid included multiple USB ports, 12-volt outlets, and wireless charging, ensuring devices remained powered throughout the journey.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder included the Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite as standard, featuring automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and more. Upper trims offered a surround-view monitor, and the Pathfinder Platinum added an extra airbag. While crash test ratings were unavailable, the Pathfinder's safety features provided peace of mind.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. The forward collision warning system was particularly effective, providing clear alerts. While some features required additional packages, the Pacifica Hybrid's safety technology was robust. The 2022 model received a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA, and the 2023 model was expected to perform similarly.