2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2021 Chrysler Pacifica

In 2021, the Chrysler Pacifica boasted a refreshed exterior design that gave it a more assertive appearance. The new standard LED headlights sat on either side of a revamped hexagonal grille. This update resulted in a more muscular front end, shedding some of the elegance the model had in previous years. At the back, an all-LED taillamp ran the width of the vehicle, with the Chrysler wing badge prominently displayed at its center.

The 2021 Pacifica offered six new wheel designs and retained the S Appearance Package from the 2017 model, featuring darkened elements and black accents that replaced the standard chrome. Inside, Chrysler's focus on premium materials was clear, especially in the top trims. The Pinnacle trim stood out with its quilted leather seats, suede center row pillows, and Berber floor mats, creating a luxurious feel. The dashboard was flat, similar to the Kia Sedona, but with a more premium tilt toward the console area, housing a 10.1-inch touchscreen—the largest in its class.

In contrast, the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid didn’t aim to win beauty contests. Its design was straightforward and functional but lacked the ruggedness or sharp lines seen in some newer SUV designs. The Hybrid version prioritized efficiency and practicality over aesthetic appeal. The interior was nicely appointed with black Nappa premium leather, though the Pacifica's rounded styling made it appear a bit dated compared to the more modern, angular designs trendier at the time.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica offered two powertrains. The standard was a 3.6-liter V6 engine mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission, generating 287 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. Alternatively, a hybrid setup paired a V6 engine with a dual-motor electrically variable transmission and a 16-kilowatt-hour battery, achieving a combined output of 260 horsepower. The V6 internal combustion engine was standard on the Touring and Touring L trims, while the Limited and Pinnacle trims offered either all-wheel drive (AWD) or the hybrid powertrain. AWD was reintroduced to the Pacifica lineup in 2021, acting on-demand based on various conditions to improve traction without the need for driver intervention.

The hybrid version of the 2021 Pacifica delivered an all-electric range of over 30 miles and more than 500 miles total range. It achieved 82 MPGe and 30 mpg combined. In contrast, the V6 models managed 19 mpg city and 28 mpg highway, which dropped to 17 mpg city and 25 mpg highway when AWD was added.

For 2022, the Pacifica Hybrid carried forward the same 3.6-liter V6 engine hybrid system, offering a combined output of 260 horsepower. It could travel up to 32 miles on electric power alone, making it ideal for short commutes or errands. The 2022 model continued to excel in efficiency, averaging around 37.1 mpg in mixed driving conditions. While the hybrid system's performance was smooth and the switch between electric and gasoline power nearly imperceptible, it didn’t deliver a particularly engaging driving experience. The steering was light, and the regenerative brakes could be somewhat grabby at times.

The 2021 Pacifica focused on family-friendly functionality. Upfront, seating was spacious, and the center console had a padded lid instead of armrests, providing a feeling of togetherness. It offered ample storage, including under-stack bins. Standard features included power-sliding rear doors, tri-zone climate control, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and Stow 'n Go seats in the second and third rows, enhancing the vehicle’s versatility. The rear cargo area was spacious, and the Pinnacle trim offered best-in-class storage capacity of 227.6 liters.

The 2022 Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility. It featured triple-zone automatic climate control with a new clean air filtration system. The interior included quality leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and ample storage options, such as the large floor tray under the center console. The second-row seats didn't have the Stow 'n Go functionality due to the hybrid battery placement, but they were more comfortable and adjustable for legroom. The third-row was reasonably comfortable and provided additional storage when needed by folding down into the floor. Without the second-row seats, the cargo space expanded to a vast 140.5 cubic feet, superior to many three-row SUVs.

The 2021 Pacifica featured Chrysler's Uconnect 5 infotainment system, controlled via a 10.1-inch touchscreen. The system was responsive, graphically appealing, and offered customizable user profiles. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and navigation. For rear passengers, an in-seat entertainment option was available, along with a premium sound system that could be upgraded to a 20-speaker Harman Kardon option. The FamCam interior monitoring camera was standard on the Pinnacle trim.

The 2022 Pacifica Hybrid also featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, complete with a 10.1-inch touchscreen and user-friendly interface. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa compatibility, and connected services with a Wi-Fi hotspot. The FamCam system was available and proved beneficial for parents. The rear-seat entertainment system had been enhanced with Amazon Fire TV, allowing access to streaming services and content downloads. However, voice recognition technology on the 2022 model was less reliable.

The 2021 Pacifica came standard with 97 safety features, increasing to 100 on the Pinnacle trim. Key features included forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control with stop and go, lane-departure warning with lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection. It received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Pacifica Hybrid included a comprehensive package of safety features and added a rear-seat reminder system to prevent accidentally leaving occupants inside the vehicle. It offered adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and lane-keeping assist, although the adaptive cruise control needed refinement. The Pacifica Hybrid earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.