2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2021 Volvo XC90

The 2021 Volvo XC90 marked a significant shift in Volvo's design philosophy, maintaining its traditional styling while adding a touch of modern character. The XC90 retained its boxy profile and blunt front end, but introduced softer lines, more chrome, and distinctive LED headlights with "Thor's Hammer" daytime running lights. The Inscription trim, with its extra chrome and optional 21-inch alloy wheels, was the most eye-catching, while the R-Design and Momentum trims offered sportier and more understated looks, respectively. Inside, the XC90 embraced "Swedish minimalism," featuring high-quality materials like matte-finish wood trim and optional wool upholstery, creating a refined yet understated cabin environment.

In contrast, the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was a practical minivan that didn't shy away from its identity. While it wasn't a standout in terms of aesthetics, even with the S Appearance Package, it offered a unique plug-in hybrid option in the minivan segment. The Pacifica Hybrid's interior was comfortable, with black Nappa leather and a flowing design that felt somewhat dated compared to more modern, angular styles. Despite its higher price point, the Pacifica Hybrid provided a compelling package for those seeking efficiency and practicality, especially with its electric-only driving range and spacious interior.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains, all centered around a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base T5 model featured a turbocharged engine producing 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, while the T6 added a supercharger for a total of 316 hp and 295 lb-ft. The T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid, or Recharge, combined the T6 engine with electric motors for a total output of 400 hp and 472 lb-ft. Despite its power, the XC90's small engine struggled with flexibility compared to competitors' larger engines, and the plug-in hybrid's electric mode was limited to low speeds. The XC90 excelled in ride quality, thanks to an optional air-suspension system, and offered a respectable towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds.

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, delivering a total of 260 horsepower. The Pacifica Hybrid 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, and the transition between electric and gasoline power was nearly seamless. While the Pacifica Hybrid's driving experience was unremarkable, its powertrain impressed with its efficiency, achieving an average fuel economy of 37.1 mpg during testing. However, the driving dynamics were less engaging, with light steering and a somewhat unnatural ride quality due to the low-mounted battery weight.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 offered six-seat or seven-seat configurations, with average headroom and legroom across its three rows. The third row was tight for adults, and the seats lacked support. The interior felt spacious, thanks to an optional power moonroof and upright roof profile. The XC90's cargo space was limited, with 11.2 cubic feet behind the third row, 34.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, and 64.1 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded. Storage options were also limited, but a hands-free power tailgate was available.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, offering three comfortable rows of seats and ample cargo space. The interior featured triple-zone climate control, quality leather upholstery, and heated and ventilated front seats. Storage was abundant, with various compartments and a large floor tray. The second-row seats were more comfortable than the standard Pacifica's Stow n' Go seats, but they didn't fold into the floor, requiring removal for maximum cargo space. The Pacifica Hybrid provided 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 seats removed.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a 9-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. The system was intuitive, with a portrait-oriented touchscreen that mimicked a tablet interface. However, the text and typeface made reading menus difficult while driving, and the wireless charging pad was too small for most phones. The XC90 also offered a 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system and a head-up display.

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. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The system allowed for five user profiles and included a FamCam overhead camera system for monitoring rear passengers. The Pacifica Hybrid also offered a 20-speaker Harman Kardon audio system and an available rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV. However, the voice recognition technology was inconsistent, and the sound quality required adjustment for optimal performance.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS for non-hybrid models and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. It offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including lane-keep assist, driver-attention monitoring, and Volvo's Pilot Assist driver aid. Pilot Assist combined adaptive cruise control with automated lane centering, providing smooth operation but struggling with highway curves.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid claimed to offer more standard safety features than any other vehicle in the industry. It included a rear-seat reminder system and a complete package of driver-assist and collision-avoidance features. However, it lacked adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assist. The Pacifica Hybrid earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with a four-star rating for frontal-impact protection.