2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2022 Buick Enclave

The 2022 Buick Enclave represented a significant shift for Buick, which had traditionally favored conservative styling and functional interiors. Over the past 15 years, Buick transitioned from a sedan-heavy lineup to an all-SUV portfolio, reflecting broader market trends. The Enclave, introduced in 2008, replaced older models and quickly became a favorite among critics and consumers. A 2018 redesign pushed the Enclave further upmarket, and the 2022 mid-cycle refresh brought new exterior styling enhancements and upgraded interior materials. The Avenir trim, in particular, offered unique design elements and luxurious features like climate-controlled front seats and heated second-row captain's chairs.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, despite its minivan stigma, offered a compelling package for those needing efficient transportation for up to seven people. The Pacifica Hybrid's design didn't try to hide its minivan roots, even with the S Appearance Package. The interior featured quality materials like black Nappa leather and a flowing design that some might find dated. The Pacifica Hybrid was not cheap, with the Limited trim starting at $54,095 and the Pinnacle version at $57,645. However, the federal income tax credit of $7,500 helped offset the cost. The Pacifica Hybrid's interior was functional, with comfortable seating and ample storage, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2022 Buick Enclave kept things straightforward with a single powertrain option: a 3.6-liter V6 engine paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, delivering 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available on all trims. The Enclave's maximum towing capacity was 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. The Enclave was known for its quiet and smooth ride, enhanced by the optional Avenir Technology package, which included a premium ride suspension and continuously variable real-time chassis damping. The Enclave handled various terrains well, from highways to city streets, and offered a surprisingly responsive powertrain for its size.

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 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 imperceptible. The Pacifica Hybrid achieved an average fuel economy of 37.1 mpg on a mixed driving loop. While the driving experience was not particularly exciting, the Pacifica Hybrid excelled in efficiency and practicality.

The 2022 Buick Enclave offered easy ingress and egress, excellent visibility, and comfortable seating for up to six adults. The Enclave's interior featured an eight-way power driver seat and six-way power front passenger seat, both heated and with power lumbar control. Premium and Avenir trims added four-way power lumbar with massage and heated second-row seats. The Enclave's third row was spacious enough for adults, and the second-row captain's chairs made access easy. The restyled center console included new push-button transmission gears and ample storage. Cargo space was generous, with 23.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 57.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 97.4 cubic feet with both rows down.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, offering three rows of comfortable seating and ample cargo space. The Pacifica Hybrid Limited 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 did not fold into the floor. The third-row seat was reasonably comfortable, with cupholders, USB ports, and side window shades. Cargo space was impressive, with 32.3 cubic feet behind the third row, 87.5 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 140.5 cubic feet with the second-row seats removed.

The 2022 Buick Enclave featured a standard 4.2-inch driver information center, with Premium and Avenir trims getting an 8-inch reconfigurable version. The 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with navigation available on higher trims. The system could pair up to 10 devices and included a built-in WiFi hotspot. The Premium and Avenir trims featured a 10-speaker Bose audio system, while all Enclaves came with SiriusXM 360L, six USB ports, and various driver-assist features like adaptive cruise control and a head-up display.

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 allowed for five user profiles and included a WiFi hotspot. The available FamCam overhead camera system was a useful feature for parents. The Pacifica Hybrid also offered a 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system and an Amazon Fire TV-enabled rear-seat entertainment system. The surround-view camera system and parking assist were standard on higher trims, enhancing the vehicle's practicality.

The 2022 Buick Enclave saw significant updates to its safety tech, with the Buick Driver Confidence Plus package becoming standard on all trims. This package included automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, lane-change alert, rear cross-traffic warning, lane-keeping assistance, and more. Additional features on higher trims included enhanced automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and a surround-view camera. The Enclave received a four-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA and "Good" ratings in most IIHS crash tests, with an "Acceptable" score in the updated side-impact test.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including a rear-seat reminder system. The Pacifica Hybrid's adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and lane-keeping assist needed refinement, particularly in recognizing lane changes and moderating speed. The Pacifica 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.