2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2021 Subaru Outback

The 2021 Subaru Outback, redesigned for the 2020 model year, retained a familiar and comfortable feel reminiscent of older Subaru models. The analog gauges, steering wheel design, and seat forms were consistent with previous iterations, though the interior saw a refresh, especially in trims above the base model. Higher trims featured an 11.6-inch portrait display, surrounded by polished black plastic and chrome trim, enhancing the cabin's modernity. The Onyx Edition XT, with its gray and black StarTex upholstery and lime green stitching, added a touch of flair. Externally, the Outback's gray cladding and smooth, plain styling maintained its lifted wagon appearance, with minor updates like new paint options and standard adaptive LED headlights.

In contrast, the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, despite its minivan stigma, offered a unique plug-in hybrid drivetrain, combining a 3.6-liter V6 engine with a dual-motor electric drive system. This setup provided 260 horsepower and an electric-only range of up to 32 miles. The Pacifica Hybrid's interior featured black Nappa leather, triple-zone climate control, and ample storage options. However, its rounded styling appeared dated compared to more modern designs. The Pacifica Hybrid's practicality shone through with its ability to transport seven people efficiently, though it lacked the Stow n’ Go seats of the standard Pacifica due to the battery placement.

The 2021 Subaru Outback's base 2.5-liter flat-four engine, producing 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, struggled with the vehicle's weight, especially when fully loaded. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) exacerbated the issue, making the Outback slow and noisy under strain. However, the turbocharged 2.4-liter flat-four engine available in the XT trims offered a significant improvement, delivering 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, making the vehicle more capable and refined. The turbo engine's fuel economy was slightly lower, but the trade-off for better performance was worthwhile. The Outback's handling was geared towards comfort, with its high ground clearance and long-travel springs making it adept at tackling rough roads. Subaru's AWD system, with its proactive torque distribution and X-Mode for tougher conditions, further enhanced the Outback's off-road capabilities.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid's plug-in hybrid drivetrain, combining a 3.6-liter V6 engine with a dual-motor electric drive system, provided a total output of 260 horsepower. The electric drive system's immediate torque made the Pacifica feel adequately powered, even when fully loaded. The van could travel up to 32 miles on electric power alone, making it ideal for short commutes and errands. The regenerative braking system helped recharge the battery, contributing to an impressive average fuel economy of 37.1 mpg during testing. The Pacifica Hybrid's driving dynamics were less engaging, with light steering, unremarkable regenerative brakes, and a somewhat unnatural ride quality due to the low-mounted battery. However, the powertrain's seamless transition between electric and gasoline modes and its overall efficiency were commendable.

The 2021 Subaru Outback offered impressive ground clearance, surpassing even some full-size trucks, allowing it to tackle various terrains without being oversized. Inside, it provided 76 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 33 cubic feet with them raised. The cargo area was wide and flat, with ample headroom and legroom for passengers. Visibility was excellent, thanks to thin pillars and large windows. Storage options included large map pockets, bottle holders, and handy pockets in the front center console. However, some features like push-button start and rear climate vents were only available on higher trims. The standard roof rails with integrated crossbars were a standout feature, offering convenience and cost savings.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, with three rows of comfortable seats and substantial cargo space. The interior featured triple-zone climate control, quality leather upholstery, and ample storage options, including extra shelves in the front door panels and a large floor tray under the center console. 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, expanding to 87.5 cubic feet with the third row folded and 140.5 cubic feet with the second row removed, surpassing the cargo capacity of some full-size SUVs.

The 2021 Subaru Outback's infotainment system, despite its dated appearance, offered modern features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The higher trims featured an 11.6-inch touchscreen, which, while responsive, complicated climate control adjustments. Subaru EyeSight, standard on all trims, included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and forward automatic emergency braking. However, the system relied solely on cameras, which could be less effective in certain conditions compared to systems that also use radar.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, offering appealing graphics, a simple user interface, and quick response times. It supported simultaneous Bluetooth pairing, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, Amazon Alexa compatibility, and connected services, including 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 sound system and an Amazon Fire TV-enabled rear-seat entertainment system. However, the voice recognition technology was hit-and-miss, and the sound system required adjustment for optimal performance.

The 2021 Subaru Outback featured a stronger and stiffer chassis, with standard driver’s knee and passenger seat-cushion airbags. Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert was optional on Premium trims and standard on higher trims. Rear emergency braking and a driver-attention monitor were available on select trims. The Outback earned a 2020 IIHS "Top Safety Pick+" award and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with four stars for the front passenger in a frontal crash and four stars for the rollover test.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including a rear-seat reminder system. It offered adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and lane-keeping assist, though 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, with four stars for frontal-impact protection.