2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2022 Volkswagen Atlas

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas carried over with minor modifications from its predecessor, following significant updates in 2021. Volkswagen streamlined the lineup to include SE, SE with Technology, SEL, SEL R-Line, SEL R-Line Black, and SEL Premium R-Line trims, with most models offering more standard features than before. The pricing ranged from $34,355 to $51,505, plus a $1,195 destination charge. The SEL Premium R-Line trim, with its 21-inch wheels and R-Line design elements, aimed to enhance the SUV's upscale appearance, though some wheel choices did not complement its bold styling. Inside, the Atlas boasted a simple yet premium design, but the use of low-cost materials and hard plastics detracted from the overall quality, especially given its nearly $54,000 price tag.

In contrast, the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was a unique offering in the minivan segment, combining practicality with a plug-in hybrid powertrain. Despite its minivan image, the Pacifica Hybrid provided a compelling package for transporting up to seven people efficiently. The base Touring L started at $49,095, with the Limited trim at $54,095, and the Pinnacle version at $57,645. Our test vehicle, a Pacifica Hybrid Limited, featured extra-cost paint, the S Appearance Package, and a Uconnect Theater rear-seat entertainment system, bringing the MSRP to $57,680. The interior, with black Nappa premium leather, exuded quality, though the styling appeared soft and dated compared to more modern designs. Despite its minivan identity, the Pacifica Hybrid offered a unique blend of efficiency and practicality.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered two engine options. The standard turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, available on SE, SE with Technology, and SEL trims, produced 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, requiring premium fuel for optimal performance. It paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and offered front-wheel drive or 4Motion all-wheel drive. The turbo-four's towing capacity was limited to 2,000 pounds, with fuel economy estimates ranging from 22 to 23 mpg in combined driving. The 3.6-liter V6 engine, standard on higher trims and optional on others, delivered 276 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. While it could tow up to 5,000 pounds, its acceleration was leisurely, and fuel economy estimates were 19 to 20 mpg. The Atlas featured various driving modes and an Active Control system for different conditions, but its ride quality and handling left room for improvement.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured a plug-in hybrid drivetrain based on a 3.6-liter V6 engine paired with a dual-motor electric drive system, producing a total of 260 horsepower. The electric drive system's torque was immediately available, providing ample power even with a full load. The Pacifica Hybrid could travel up to 32 miles on electric power alone, making it ideal for short commutes and errands. The regenerative braking system helped recharge the battery, and the transition between electric and gasoline power was nearly seamless. During testing, the Pacifica Hybrid achieved an average fuel economy of 37.1 mpg. While the driving experience was unremarkable, the powertrain's efficiency and smooth operation were impressive.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in interior space and comfort. With the discontinuation of the base S trim, cloth seats were no longer available, but V-Tex leatherette seating, heated front seats, and a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat were standard. Higher trims added features like tri-zone automatic climate control, ambient lighting, and a panoramic sunroof. The Atlas offered generous seating for seven, with a low step-in height for easy access. Cargo space was also impressive, with 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 96.8 cubic feet with all seats folded. However, unlined storage areas led to unwanted noise from items sliding around.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid provided exceptional comfort and utility, with three comfortable rows of seats and ample cargo space. The Limited trim featured triple-zone automatic climate control, quality leather upholstery, and heated and ventilated front seats. Storage solutions were abundant, with various bins and trays throughout the cabin. The second-row seats were more comfortable than the standard Pacifica's Stow n’ Go seats, though they required removal for maximum cargo space. The third-row seat offered reasonable comfort, and the Pacifica Hybrid provided 32.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind it, expanding to 140.5 cubic feet with the second-row seats removed.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas came standard with the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit instrument cluster, featuring an 8-inch display that expanded to 10.25 inches on higher trims. The SE trim had a 6.5-inch touchscreen with basic infotainment features, while other trims offered the next-generation MIB3 system with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and more. Car-Net connected services were available in three plans, offering features like remote start and emergency assistance. However, the user experience was hindered by slow loading times and a cumbersome interface, making Apple CarPlay or Android Auto preferable for navigation.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, offering appealing graphics and a user-friendly interface. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa compatibility, and connected services, including a Wi-Fi hotspot. The available FamCam overhead camera system allowed parents to monitor rear-seat passengers. While the voice recognition technology was inconsistent, the system's overall operation was smooth. The Pacifica Hybrid also offered a 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system and an Amazon Fire TV-enabled rear-seat entertainment system, though personal devices might render the latter unnecessary.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic post-collision braking, Front Assist, Side Assist, and Rear Traffic Alert. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and more. However, the Lane Assist system occasionally misinterpreted road markings, and the Atlas did not earn a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, with four-star frontal-impact ratings from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted an extensive list of standard safety features, including a rear-seat reminder system. While adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist were included, the system's performance needed refinement. The Pacifica earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with four-star frontal-impact protection.