2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport was crafted by removing the third row from the standard Atlas model, lowering the roofline by nearly 6 centimetres, and shortening the SUV’s length by 13.2 cm. This resulted in a more coupe-like appearance while maintaining the same wheelbase, ensuring a spacious interior for five passengers. However, the design changes reduced cargo space to 1,141 litres behind the second-row seat and a maximum of 2,203 litres. The Execline trim, with its 21-inch machined-finish wheels, added a bold and upscale look, although the base Comfortline trim's 18-inch wheels seemed undersized. The interior offered various colour combinations, but the presence of hard, glossy plastics detracted from the overall quality feel.

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, complemented by 18-inch wheels. The minivan's split grille and LED headlamps added a touch of sophistication. While the interior was predominantly dark, the Nappa leather seats and sweeping dash lines provided a sense of elegance. The Pacifica Hybrid's practicality was highlighted by its sliding doors and ample cargo space, although the black interior might not appeal to everyone. The minivan's design prioritized functionality over style, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.6-litre V6 engine producing 276 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. The V6 engine, which did not require premium fuel, provided a more satisfying driving experience and a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and VW’s 4Motion all-wheel-drive system, offering various driving modes. Despite its weight, the V6 engine felt more energetic in the two-row version, although the suspension tuning was criticized for being too firm at low speeds and too soft at higher speeds.

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 figures, achieving 53 km of electric range and 885 km of total range. The minivan's CVT operated smoothly, and the steering was light, suitable for a family vehicle. However, the Pacifica Hybrid was limited to front-wheel drive and lacked a towing package, which might deter some buyers.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport shared its wheelbase and interior dimensions with the larger seven-passenger model, offering ample space for five adults. The test vehicle featured 10-way power-adjustable front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and a dual-zone automatic climate control system. The panoramic sunroof enhanced the sense of space, while the cargo area provided plenty of room for luggage, despite the reduced cargo capacity compared to the seven-passenger model.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid offered a family-friendly interior with features like the FamCam interior camera, heated and cooled front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The second-row captain’s chairs and third-row seats provided comfort, although taller passengers might find the second-row seats a bit low. The Pacifica Hybrid's cargo space was generous, with 914 litres behind the third row and up to 3,978 litres with all seats folded. However, the absence of Stow ‘n Go seats in the hybrid model reduced its versatility.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport came with a Volkswagen Digital Cockpit, an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 12-speaker Fender premium audio system. While the technology offered a range of features, the user experience was sometimes frustrating, particularly with the touchscreen and voice recognition. The Execline trim added automatic high beams and a premium audio system, enhancing the overall 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 added two 10-inch screens for second-row passengers, although the cost might be hard to justify given the prevalence of personal devices. The Pacifica Hybrid also included numerous USB ports, 12-volt outlets, and wireless charging, ensuring devices remained powered throughout the journey.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport included a range of safety features, such as forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The Execline trim added a semi-autonomous Park Assist system and an Area View 360-degree camera system. While the Travel Assist system was generally accurate, it occasionally lacked refinement, and the Lane Assist technology sometimes misinterpreted road markings.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid offered standard safety features like blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The forward collision warning system was particularly effective, providing both visual and audible alerts. However, some features, such as parallel parking assistance, required additional packages or the top Hybrid Pinnacle trim. The 2022 version of the Pacifica received a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA and Good marks from the IIHS, except for a few areas.