2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC was a testament to the brand's commitment to a timeless aesthetic, characterized by soft curves and rounded edges. While it maintained a modern edge with its menacing LED headlights, it avoided the overly aggressive styling seen in some competitors. The GLC's long hood and wide grille gave it a dramatic stance, reminiscent of a raised C-Class or E-Class sedan, emphasizing its car-like characteristics. Inside, the GLC's cabin was an automotive masterpiece, with flowing lines and a minimalist approach that elevated the interior to an art form. The GLC was available in both a conventional SUV format and a crossover "coupe" body style, with the latter sacrificing some cargo space for a sharper look.

In contrast, the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid embraced its minivan identity, offering practicality over style. Despite the S Appearance Package, the Pacifica Hybrid wasn't a head-turner, but it excelled in functionality. The interior featured black Nappa premium leather, providing a sense of quality, though the styling appeared softer and more dated compared to contemporary trends. The Pacifica Hybrid's design didn't attempt to disguise its minivan nature, focusing instead on offering a unique plug-in hybrid option in a segment with little competition. While it wasn't cheap, the Pacifica Hybrid provided a compelling package for those prioritizing efficiency and practicality.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 was powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 255 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. This power was managed by a nine-speed automatic transmission, with options for rear-wheel drive or 4MATIC all-wheel drive. The GLC offered various drive modes, including Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+, but even in Comfort mode, the engine provided ample power. The steering was soft yet precise, and the GLC struck a balance between refinement and responsiveness. For those seeking more power, the AMG GLC43 and AMG GLC63 variants offered significantly higher horsepower, with the latter's twin-turbo V8 producing up to 503 hp.

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 electric drive system provided immediate torque, and the Pacifica Hybrid could travel up to 32 miles on electric power alone. The regenerative braking system helped recharge the battery, contributing to an average fuel economy of 37.1 mpg during testing. While the Pacifica Hybrid's powertrain impressed with its efficiency, the driving experience was less engaging, with light steering and unremarkable regenerative brakes. However, the transition between electric and gasoline power was seamless, and the vehicle excelled in its primary role as an efficient people mover.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC offered 56.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, dropping to 19.4 cubic feet with them up. The GLC Coupe's fastback design reduced these figures to 49.4 and 17.6 cubic feet, respectively. The GLC's interior was well-designed, with ample storage options, including a decently sized center console and deep door pockets. Rear-seat space was adequate, with plenty of headroom in the SUV, though the Coupe's low roofline compromised headroom.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, offering three comfortable rows of seats and up to 140.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the second-row seats removed. The interior featured triple-zone climate control, quality leather upholstery, and ample storage options, including a large floor tray and multiple bins. 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 third-row seat was reasonably comfortable, with cupholders and USB ports for passengers. The Pacifica Hybrid's cargo space was impressive, providing 32.3 cubic feet behind the third row and 87.5 cubic feet with the third row folded.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC featured the MBUX infotainment system with a 10.25-inch touchscreen, center console touch controller, and advanced voice-control system. The system was intuitive, offering both touch and controller options for navigating menus. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were included, though switching between the GLC's radio and smartphone apps required navigating through menus.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid came with the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, featuring a 10.1-inch touchscreen with appealing graphics and a user-friendly interface. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The available FamCam overhead camera system allowed parents to monitor rear-seat passengers. While the voice recognition technology was inconsistent, the system's overall operation was satisfactory. The Pacifica Hybrid also offered a 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system and an available rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC was equipped with standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Optional features included a 360-degree parking camera and dynamic cruise control. However, the parking sensors were overly sensitive, leading to false positives.

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