2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2021 Buick Encore GX

The 2021 Buick Encore GX was praised for its stylish design, which was a significant improvement over the original Encore, often referred to as “the shoe” due to its awkward proportions. The Encore GX offered a sleek and appealing exterior with no unsatisfactory lines, available in three trim levels: Preferred, Select, and Essence. Buyers could opt for the Sport Touring package for a sportier look across all trims. The SUV provided a choice between front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD), with two turbocharged three-cylinder engines. The 1.2-liter engine was exclusive to FWD, while the 1.3-liter engine was available with both FWD and AWD. The test model featured the Essence trim with the 1.3-liter engine, but without AWD, and included several upgrades, bringing the MSRP to $35,065. Despite the high price, Buick offered significant discounts for current GM customers and attractive lease deals for non-GM owners. Inside, the Encore GX's cabin met the expected quality levels for its segment, though the interior design was less refined than the exterior. The placement of analog gauges and the head-up display (HUD) were criticized for being inconvenient and lacking refinement.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, while not a visual standout, was a unique offering as a plug-in hybrid minivan. It provided a practical and efficient solution for transporting up to seven people, with the added benefit of electric-only driving capability. The Pacifica Hybrid's base Touring L trim started at $49,095, with the Limited and Pinnacle trims priced higher. The test vehicle, a Limited trim with additional features, had an MSRP of $57,680. Despite its high cost, the Pacifica Hybrid qualified for a $7,500 federal tax credit. The interior featured quality materials, such as black Nappa leather, but the styling was considered soft and dated. The Pacifica Hybrid did not attempt to disguise its minivan identity, unlike some competitors. However, it offered a compelling package for those prioritizing efficiency and practicality over style.

The 2021 Buick Encore GX offered two turbocharged three-cylinder engines, with the 1.2-liter engine producing 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque. The more powerful 1.3-liter engine delivered 155 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque, providing a more spirited driving experience. The Encore GX's performance was described as adequate, with enough power for highway cruising and nimble handling on winding roads. The FWD models featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT), while AWD models used a nine-speed automatic transmission. Despite Buick's efforts to enhance cabin quietness, the Encore GX was not particularly quiet inside, and its ride quality was criticized for being too brittle over rough roads. The Encore GX's steering was light, making it easy to drive, but it lacked the refinement expected from a premium brand.

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 Pacifica Hybrid could travel up to 32 miles on electric power alone, making it ideal for short commutes and errands. The transition between electric and gasoline power was nearly seamless, and the regenerative braking system helped recharge the battery. During testing, the Pacifica Hybrid achieved an average fuel economy of 37.1 mpg. While the Pacifica Hybrid's powertrain was praised for its efficiency, the driving experience was described as dull, with light steering and unremarkable brakes. The minivan's handling was not particularly engaging, but it excelled in comfort and practicality.

The 2021 Buick Encore GX offered a high seating position and supportive front seats, though the rear seats were less comfortable for taller passengers. Interior storage was ample, with a trunk capacity of 23.5 cubic feet, expandable to 50.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The test vehicle included a hands-free power liftgate and a fold-flat front passenger seat for added convenience. However, the rear lacked air conditioning vents, and the rear seat design was not ideal for long journeys.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, offering three rows of comfortable seating and ample cargo space. The interior featured triple-zone climate control, quality leather upholstery, and heated and ventilated front seats. Storage options were plentiful, with various bins and trays throughout the cabin. The second-row seats were more comfortable than those in a standard Pacifica, but they did not fold into the floor. The third-row seats were reasonably comfortable, and the Pacifica Hybrid provided 32.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind them. With the third-row seats folded, cargo capacity increased to 87.5 cubic feet, and removing the second-row seats expanded it to 140.5 cubic feet.

The 2021 Buick Encore GX featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity for two devices, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The test vehicle included a navigation system, voice recognition, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a surround-view camera. Despite the added packages, the test car lacked the available Bose premium sound system. The infotainment system was praised for its quick response, user-friendly interface, and pleasing graphics.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid came with the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, featuring a 10.1-inch touchscreen display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The system allowed for five user profiles and included a Wi-Fi hotspot. The available FamCam overhead camera system was a useful feature for parents. The test vehicle had a 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, though the sound quality required adjustment. The Pacifica Hybrid also offered an Amazon Fire TV rear-seat entertainment system, but it was deemed unnecessary if passengers had their own devices. The surround-view camera system and parking assist were standard on higher trims.

The 2021 Buick Encore GX came with standard Buick Driver Confidence, which included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard on higher trims. The Encore GX also featured Teen Driver technology and a Tire Fill Alert system. The adaptive cruise control system required manual reactivation after stopping, and its distance management settings were not ideal. The Encore GX received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

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