2022 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was a unique offering in the minivan segment, standing out as a plug-in hybrid with three rows of seating. Despite its minivan label, which some might find less appealing compared to SUVs, the Pacifica Hybrid offered practical features like sliding side doors, making it convenient for families. Its design, while not particularly striking, was functional, and the interior, though comfortable with quality materials, appeared somewhat dated compared to more modern, angular designs. The Pacifica Hybrid was priced on the higher side, with the Limited trim reaching over $57,000 before tax credits, but it offered a distinct combination of hybrid efficiency and minivan utility.

In contrast, the 2022 Chevrolet Traverse presented itself as a more traditional SUV, appealing to those who preferred the SUV aesthetic over a minivan. It featured a refreshed design with new headlights, taillights, and grille options, along with various appearance packages. The Traverse RS trim, with its blacked-out elements and 20-inch wheels, was particularly stylish. Inside, the Traverse offered a spacious cabin with practical features like Smart Slide second-row seats and ample storage. However, the use of hard plastics in some areas detracted from the overall feel of quality. The Traverse was competitively priced, starting at $33,700, making it an attractive option for families seeking a roomy SUV without breaking the bank.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine paired with a dual-motor electric drive system, delivering a total of 260 horsepower. This setup allowed the Pacifica Hybrid to travel up to 32 miles on electric power alone, making it ideal for short commutes and errands. The transition between electric and gasoline power was smooth, and the regenerative braking system helped recharge the battery. Despite its efficiency, the Pacifica Hybrid's driving experience was somewhat uninspiring, with light steering and unremarkable brakes. However, its powertrain was praised for its seamless operation and efficiency, achieving an average fuel economy of 37.1 mpg during testing.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came with a single engine option: a 3.6-liter V6 producing 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. This engine provided adequate power for the Traverse's size, and the SUV could tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. The Traverse offered various driving modes, including Tow/Haul, Snow, and Off-Road, to suit different conditions. While the V6 engine could be a bit noisy under acceleration, it was generally well-suited to the vehicle's needs. The Traverse's ride quality was comfortable, though it could feel disconnected from the road at higher speeds. Overall, the Traverse delivered a solid performance for a family SUV, with a combined fuel economy rating of 20.9 mpg during testing.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, offering three rows of comfortable seating and ample cargo space. The interior featured quality leather upholstery, triple-zone climate control, and a range of storage solutions, 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 to maximize 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 up to 140.5 cubic feet with the second row removed.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse offered a spacious interior with seating for up to seven passengers in RS, Premier, and High Country trims, which featured second-row captain's chairs. The Traverse's Smart Slide second-row seats and wide rear doors facilitated easy access to the third row. The cabin was equipped with power-adjustable and heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and triple-zone climate control. Storage was plentiful, with hidden compartments behind the infotainment screen and under the cargo floor. The Traverse provided 23 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 57.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 98.2 cubic feet with the second row folded.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The system supported multiple user profiles and simultaneous Bluetooth pairing for two devices. The Pacifica Hybrid also offered a 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system and an available rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV. However, the voice recognition technology was inconsistent, and the sound system required adjustments for optimal performance.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came with a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, depending on the trim level, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity for two devices, and a WiFi hotspot. Higher trims offered an 8-inch digital instrumentation panel and an integrated navigation system. The Traverse's voice recognition system was responsive and accurate, enhancing the overall user experience. The RS trim included a Bose premium sound system, though it was not particularly impressive. The Traverse also featured a digital rearview mirror and a surround-view camera system for improved visibility.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, 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 resume speed and overly sensitive to vehicles cutting in. The Pacifica Hybrid earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, though its frontal-impact protection was rated four stars.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came standard with Chevy Safety Assist, which included forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims offered additional features like adaptive cruise control and a rear pedestrian alert system. The Traverse's safety systems were generally accurate and refined, though it lacked a lane-centering assist feature. The Traverse received top "Good" ratings in most IIHS collision tests, except for an "Acceptable" rating in a new side-impact test. NHTSA ratings were not available at the time of writing.