2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2021 Honda Odyssey

The 2021 Honda Odyssey presented a familiar design with subtle updates to modernize its appearance. It featured a new grille and front bumper, standard LED headlights with automatic high-beam operation, and a gloss black spear with a chrome insert across the taillights. New wheel designs were introduced for the top three trims, enhancing the Odyssey's aesthetic by reducing brightwork. The Elite trim, in particular, offered a more luxurious feel with perforated leather upholstery, ambient dashboard lighting, and handsome 19-inch wheels, making it a strong contender in the minivan segment.

In contrast, the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was not known for its looks, even with the S Appearance Package. It was a practical choice for those seeking efficiency and utility, offering a plug-in hybrid drivetrain that was unique in the minivan market. The Pacifica Hybrid's interior was comfortable, with quality leather upholstery and a clean air filtration system. However, its rounded styling appeared dated compared to more modern designs. Despite this, the Pacifica Hybrid provided a compelling package for those prioritizing efficiency and practicality over style.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey was equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower, paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission. This combination delivered smooth and effortless power, with driving modes like Normal, Sport, Econ, and Snow, and paddle shifters for manual control. The Odyssey's fuel-saving variable cylinder management technology contributed to an EPA rating of 22 mpg in combined driving, though our tests averaged 21.8 mpg. While the Odyssey lacked all-wheel drive, it featured a new electronic brake booster for improved brake pedal feel and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability. The Odyssey's ride and handling were enjoyable, though the brakes showed signs of fade under heavy use.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured a plug-in hybrid drivetrain with a 3.6-liter V6 engine and 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, with regenerative braking helping to recharge the battery. Our tests showed an impressive average fuel economy of 37.1 mpg. The Pacifica Hybrid's powertrain seamlessly transitioned between electric and gasoline modes, though it lacked driving mode options. While the Pacifica Hybrid excelled in efficiency, its driving experience was less engaging, with light steering, unremarkable regenerative brakes, and limited cornering grip.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey offered a well-designed interior with logical controls and ample storage. The Elite trim featured a 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The Magic Slide second-row seat layout provided versatile seating configurations, though removing the second-row seats for maximum cargo space was cumbersome. The Odyssey offered 32.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 144.9 cubic feet with the seats removed.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, with triple-zone climate control, quality leather upholstery, and ample storage options. 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 Pacifica Hybrid offered 32.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 140.5 cubic feet with the second-row seats removed. The Pacifica Hybrid's interior was well-suited for families, with thoughtful features like a large storage bin and side window sunshades.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Cabin Control app. Higher trims added navigation, WiFi capability, and a rear-seat entertainment system. The Odyssey's technology suite included HondaLink subscription services, though the lack of a tuning knob and subpar voice recognition were drawbacks. The rear-seat entertainment system was not touchscreen, which disappointed some users.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid came with the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, featuring a 10.1-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The system supported multiple user profiles and simultaneous Bluetooth pairing. The Pacifica Hybrid offered a 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system and an available rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV. While the Uconnect 5 system was generally well-received, its voice recognition technology needed improvement.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey came with Honda Sensing as standard, offering a suite of advanced driving assistance systems. New features for 2021 included low-speed follow capability, pedestrian braking, and road-sign recognition. The Odyssey earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, though its adaptive cruise control and lane-departure warning systems could be smoother.

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