2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2022 Subaru Ascent

The 2022 Subaru Ascent introduced a new Onyx Edition trim level, which featured a trendy blacked-out exterior. This trim level was positioned in the middle of the Ascent lineup, offering a sporty appearance with black 20-inch aluminum wheels, unique grille design, and special interior trim. The Onyx Edition was priced at $44,995, excluding the destination fee. Inside, the Ascent Onyx Edition featured a gray two-tone StarTex synthetic leather upholstery, which was water-repellant but had a tendency to trap sweat. The interior also included metallic trim on the dashboard and door panels, creating a modern ambiance.

In contrast, the 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Limited with the S Appearance Package offered a sleek look with body-coloured door handles, gloss black grille surround, and black accents. The exterior was complemented by 18-inch wheels with a "Foreshadow" finish. The Pacifica Hybrid's interior was dark, with Nappa leather seats and a sophisticated dashboard design. The minivan provided practical features like sliding doors and ample cargo space, making it a more functional choice for families. However, the interior was limited to a black colour scheme unless upgraded to the top trim.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. It featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and all-wheel drive (AWD) as standard. The Ascent's fuel consumption was rated at 10.5 litres per 100 kilometres combined, with our testing averaging 11.5 L/100 km. The engine's flat-four layout contributed to a lower centre of gravity, enhancing handling. The CVT offered eight programmed ratios and manual shift control, providing brisk acceleration and commendable passing power. The Ascent's towing capacity was up to 2,270 kilograms, and it featured Subaru’s X-Mode off-road traction control system.

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. Our testing exceeded these figures, achieving 53 km of electric range and 885 km of total range. The Pacifica Hybrid's CVT operated smoothly, and the battery's placement in the floor improved handling. However, the Pacifica Hybrid was front-wheel drive only and lacked a towing package, limiting its versatility compared to the non-hybrid model.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent could accommodate up to eight passengers, though the third row was best suited for children. The Ascent offered a comfortable driving position and was equipped for winter weather with features like heated front seats and a wiper de-icer. The second-row seats were easy to access, and the available panoramic sunroof extended over them. The Ascent provided 458 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,061 litres with both rows folded.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured the FamCam interior camera, allowing parents to monitor children in the rear seats. The minivan offered heated and cooled front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a spacious third row. However, the Pacifica Hybrid lacked the Stow 'n Go seats due to the battery placement, reducing its versatility. Cargo space was 914 litres behind the third row, expanding to 3,978 litres with all seats folded. Despite this, competitors like the Kia Carnival and Honda Odyssey offered more overall space.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent came with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, HD Radio, and satellite radio. The Touring trim added an 8-inch display with Starlink connected services. The system's voice recognition required improvement, and the Onyx Edition's standard stereo lacked sonic quality. Additional technology features were reserved for the Premier trim.

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 added two 10-inch screens for second-row passengers, though it was an expensive addition. The Pacifica Hybrid included numerous USB ports, 12-volt outlets, and wireless charging, ensuring devices remained charged.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent received a "Top Safety Pick+" award from the IIHS and five-star crash-test ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rating in rollover resistance. It came standard with EyeSight driver-assist technology, though it had limitations in direct sunlight and lacked refinement in adaptive cruise control and lane-centring technology. Additional safety features included steering responsive LED headlights and reverse automatic braking.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid offered standard safety features like blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The 2022 version received a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA and Good marks from the IIHS, except for Marginal grades for seat belt reminders and Average grades for headlights and LATCH ease of use.