2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2021 Mazda CX-30

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo featured a distinctive design with shiny black 18-inch wheels, a black grille, black side mirror housings, and matte black body cladding. This gave the vehicle a unique, almost floating appearance, as if it were cresting a hill at speed. The CX-30 stood higher off the ground compared to the Mazda3 hatchback, making it easier to slide into the driver's seat. Inside, the cabin mirrored the Mazda3’s, with quality materials, complementary tones, and stitched chocolate brown surfaces, creating an upscale vibe. The Premium Plus trim added chrome accents and a frameless rearview mirror, with options for black or Griege leatherette upholstery, and black or white leather for higher trims. Prices ranged from about $31,000 to $35,745, including destination charges.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, while not a visual stunner, offered practicality and efficiency. The base Touring L started at $49,095, with the Limited trim at $54,095, and the Pinnacle version at $57,645. Our test vehicle, equipped with extra-cost paint, the S Appearance Package, and a Uconnect Theater rear-seat entertainment system, brought the MSRP to $57,680. Despite its high price, the Pacifica Hybrid’s interior featured quality black Nappa leather and a rounded, flowing design. However, it appeared soft and dated compared to more modern, architectural motifs. The Pacifica Hybrid was a unique offering, being the only plug-in hybrid minivan available, making it a practical choice for those needing efficient transportation for up to seven people.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo came with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing between 227 and 250 horsepower depending on the fuel octane. Torque ranged from 310 to 320 lb-ft, providing effortless acceleration. The six-speed automatic transmission, i-Activ AWD system, and G-Vectoring Control Plus technology enhanced driving dynamics. The CX-30 Turbo had an EPA rating of 25 mpg combined, though real-world testing averaged 24.1 mpg. The SUV’s 12.7-gallon fuel tank allowed for a maximum range of just over 305 miles. The CX-30 Turbo’s driving experience was refined, with sophisticated handling and a focus on driver satisfaction. However, its added height and weight made it less agile than the Mazda3. The CX-30’s Off-Road mode and 2.5 inches of extra ground clearance made it capable on dirt paths, though it was less enjoyable on paved roads.

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 16-kWh battery pack allowed for up to 32 miles of electric-only driving. The Pacifica Hybrid never felt underpowered, even when fully loaded. It achieved an average fuel economy of 37.1 mpg on a mixed driving loop. The transition between electric and gasoline power was nearly imperceptible, and the powertrain operated efficiently without requiring driver intervention. However, the Pacifica Hybrid’s driving dynamics were unremarkable, with light steering, uncommunicative brakes, and a lack of cornering grip. The minivan excelled in efficiency and comfort but lacked driving excitement.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo offered exceptional comfort for the driver, with eight-way power adjustment and heated front seats. The cabin’s minimalist design and high-quality materials created a spacious feel. However, the rear seats were cramped for adults, though rear-seat air conditioning vents provided some comfort. Storage space was generous, but the location of the wireless smartphone charger in the center console storage bin was inconvenient. The CX-30 Turbo provided 20.2 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 45.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, with three rows of comfortable seats and ample cargo space. The minivan featured triple-zone automatic climate control, quality leather upholstery, and heated and ventilated front seats. Storage options were plentiful, with extra shelves, covered bins, and a large floor tray. The second-row seats were more comfortable than the standard Pacifica’s Stow n’ Go seats but required removal to maximize cargo space. The third-row seat was reasonably comfortable, with cupholders, USB ports, and side window shades. The Pacifica Hybrid offered 32.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 87.5 cubic feet with the third-row seats folded, and up to 140.5 cubic feet with the second-row seats removed.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo featured an 8.8-inch infotainment display operated via physical controls and voice commands. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Mazda Connected Services with remote engine starting and a vehicle finder function. Premium trims added SiriusXM satellite radio, a navigation system, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. The Active Driving Display projected useful data onto the windshield, enhancing safety and convenience.

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 supported simultaneous Bluetooth pairing for two devices and included a Wi-Fi hotspot. The available FamCam overhead camera system allowed parents to monitor rear-seat passengers. The Pacifica Hybrid also offered a 20-speaker Harman Kardon audio system and an Amazon Fire TV-enabled rear-seat entertainment system. However, the voice recognition technology was inconsistent, and the sound quality of the audio system required adjustment for optimal performance.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. It came equipped with a full suite of i-ActiveSense advanced driving assistance systems, including adaptive front lighting, front and rear parking sensors, a rear automatic braking system, a surround-view camera system, and Traffic Jam Assist. The mobile 9-1-1 automatic emergency notification system provided additional safety.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid also earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. It featured a comprehensive package of standard driver-assist and collision-avoidance systems, including adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and lane-keeping assist. However, the adaptive cruise control system required refinement, as it was slow to recognize lane departures and overly cautious when other vehicles cut in.