2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2021 Acura RDX

The 2021 Acura RDX, especially with the optional A-Spec Package, was a stylish SUV. Its subtle yet effective design changes conveyed sportiness without overpromising on performance. Acura avoided making the RDX look like an off-roader, focusing instead on its daily driving and road-tripping capabilities. The A-Spec Package added sporty interior elements like front sport seats with simulated suede inserts, a sport steering wheel, and red ambient lighting, enhancing the overall sporty feel. However, the gauge cluster with red markings on a brushed silver background was hard to read, except at night.

In contrast, the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was a practical minivan that didn't try to hide its identity. Despite its minivan image, it offered a unique plug-in hybrid drivetrain, making it a standout in its category. The Pacifica Hybrid's interior featured quality materials like black Nappa premium leather and a clean air filtration system. However, its rounded, flowing design appeared soft and dated compared to more modern, architectural styles. The Pacifica Hybrid was not cheap, with the Limited trim costing $54,095, and our test vehicle reaching $57,680 with additional options.

The 2021 Acura RDX featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. A 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and front-wheel drive was standard, with the option to add the SH-AWD system for improved handling. The Integrated Dynamics System allowed drivers to choose between Snow, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ driving modes, adjusting powertrain response, steering effort, and suspension firmness. The A-Spec model's 20-inch alloy wheels and performance tires contributed to its sporty handling, though it lacked adaptive dampers and rev-matching for the transmission.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid combined a 3.6-liter V6 engine with a dual-motor electric drive system, producing a total of 260 horsepower. The 16-kWh battery pack allowed for up to 32 miles of electric-only driving, making it ideal for short commutes and errands. The Pacifica Hybrid's regenerative braking system helped recharge the battery, achieving an average fuel economy of 37.1 mpg on a mixed driving loop. While the Pacifica Hybrid's powertrain was impressive, its driving dynamics were less engaging, with light steering, unremarkable regenerative brakes, and a somewhat unnatural ride quality due to the low-mounted battery.

The 2021 Acura RDX offered remarkable passenger and cargo space for a compact SUV. The front seats were comfortable and supportive, especially in the A-Spec trim with 12-way power adjustment, heating, and ventilation. However, rear-seat comfort was compromised by a low and flat cushion and excessive seatback recline angle. Cargo space measured 29.5 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 58.9 cubic feet with the seats folded, with additional storage compartments under the cargo floor.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, offering three rows of comfortable seats and ample cargo space. The front seats featured quality leather upholstery, heating, and ventilation, while the second-row seats were more comfortable than the standard Pacifica's Stow n' Go chairs. The third-row seat provided reasonable comfort for two adults or three kids. Cargo space measured 32.3 cubic feet behind the third row, 87.5 cubic feet with the third row folded, and up to 140.5 cubic feet with the second-row seats removed. However, removing the second-row seats was not as easy as folding them into the floor.

The 2021 Acura RDX featured the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system, which used a touch-sensing pad on the center console instead of a touchscreen. While the TTI mirrored the screen, making it more intuitive than similar systems, it still required a learning curve and could be distracting. The A-Spec trim included a 16-speaker Acura/ELS Studio 3D premium audio system, which delivered excellent sound quality.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid came with the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, featuring a 10.1-inch touchscreen display, appealing graphics, and a simple user 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. However, the voice recognition technology was hit-and-miss, and the 20-speaker Harman Kardon premium sound system required adjustments for optimal sound quality. The rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV was a pricey option that might be unnecessary if passengers had their own devices.

The 2021 Acura RDX came standard with AcuraWatch, a suite of safety features including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, lane-departure warning, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. However, blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert were only available with the Technology Package. The RDX earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it received four-star ratings for frontal-impact and rollover resistance.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted a comprehensive package of standard safety features, including a rear-seat reminder system. It offered adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and lane-keeping assist, though the adaptive cruise control needed refinement. The Pacifica Hybrid earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with a four-star rating for frontal-impact protection.