2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2021 Ford Bronco Sport

The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport was a nod to the past with its modern retro design, reminiscent of the classic Bronco. It was a unibody crossover that combined rugged styling with everyday practicality, making it suitable for both urban commutes and weekend adventures. The vehicle featured a short front overhang for improved approach angles and tall fender wells for trail driving. Its bold "BRONCO" lettering on the grille and tailgate, along with minimal Ford branding, gave it a distinctive look. The interior was rugged yet refined, with a focus on functionality, offering a range of seating options and storage solutions to suit different needs.

In contrast, the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was a minivan that embraced its identity without trying to disguise it as something else. It offered a spacious and comfortable interior with premium materials, but its rounded styling appeared somewhat dated compared to more modern designs. Despite its appearance, the Pacifica Hybrid was a unique offering in the market, providing a plug-in hybrid powertrain that allowed for electric-only driving, making it an efficient choice for families. The interior was well-appointed, with features like a Uconnect Theater rear-seat entertainment system and a range of comfort and convenience options.

The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport offered two engine options, both paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The Base, Big Bend, and Outer Banks trims featured a 1.5-liter EcoBoost turbocharged three-cylinder engine producing 181 horsepower and 190 pound-feet of torque. The Badlands and First Edition models were equipped with a more powerful 2.0-liter EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 245 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque. The Bronco Sport excelled off-road, thanks to its short wheelbase, independent suspension, and terrain management system with up to seven G.O.A.T. modes. On-road, it was a competent and comfortable vehicle, though the 1.5-liter engine could feel strained under heavy acceleration.

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. Its 16-kWh battery pack allowed for up to 32 miles of electric-only driving, making it ideal for short commutes and errands. The transition between electric and gasoline power was seamless, and the regenerative braking system helped recharge the battery. The Pacifica Hybrid achieved an impressive average fuel economy of 37.1 mpg during testing. While the driving experience was not particularly engaging, the powertrain's efficiency and smooth operation were standout features.

The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport was designed with active lifestyles in mind, offering clever features like a cargo area capable of accommodating two 27.5-inch mountain bikes. It had a range of accessories for transporting outdoor gear, and the roof could support up to 150 pounds. The interior provided ample storage options, though visibility could be an issue for taller drivers. The Bronco Sport's towing capacity varied between 2,000 and 2,200 pounds, depending on the engine.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, with three rows of seating and a spacious cargo area. It featured triple-zone climate control, quality leather upholstery, and a range of storage solutions. The second-row seats were more comfortable than those in a standard Pacifica, though they did not fold into the floor. The third-row seats were reasonably comfortable, and the cargo area offered 32.3 cubic feet of space, expandable to 87.5 cubic feet with the third row folded. Removing the second-row seats increased cargo capacity to 140.5 cubic feet, surpassing many full-size SUVs.

The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport came equipped with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen featuring SYNC 3, compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It offered a range of tech options, including a Bang & Olufsen sound system and a 360-degree camera. The terrain management system provided various drive modes for different conditions, and trail control technology assisted with off-road driving. Intelligent access with push-button start was available on most trims, along with a digital instrument panel.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, and Amazon Alexa. The system allowed for multiple user profiles and included a FamCam overhead camera for monitoring rear passengers. A 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system was standard on higher trims, though sound quality required adjustment. The Pacifica also offered an Amazon Fire TV rear-seat entertainment system and a surround-view camera system for added convenience.

The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport included the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of safety features, such as pre-collision assist, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. An optional Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package added adaptive cruise control and other advanced features. All models came with all-wheel drive and a terrain management system for enhanced safety. However, crash test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were not available at the time.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. While the adaptive cruise control system needed refinement, the Pacifica earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. Its safety credentials were among the best in the industry, providing peace of mind for families.