2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2022 Ford Bronco

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 provided practical features like sliding side doors, making it convenient for families. Its design, while not particularly striking, was functional, and the interior offered a sense of quality with its premium leather. However, the styling appeared somewhat dated compared to more modern, angular designs. The Pacifica Hybrid was priced on the higher side, but it offered a federal tax credit that helped offset the cost.

In contrast, the 2022 Ford Bronco was celebrated for its retro styling and off-road prowess. It returned with new models like the Everglades, designed for challenging terrains with features like an intake snorkel and mud-terrain tires. The Bronco lineup offered a variety of trims, each with increasing off-road capabilities. Despite its rugged nature, the Bronco managed to deliver a surprisingly smooth ride on pavement, outperforming its direct rival, the Jeep Wrangler, in terms of comfort and handling. The Bronco's popularity was evident as the 2022 models quickly sold out, leaving many enthusiasts eager for a chance to own one.

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 motor provided immediate torque, ensuring the van never felt underpowered, even when fully loaded. It 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. However, the driving experience was described as dull, with light steering and unremarkable regenerative brakes.

The 2022 Ford Bronco offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder with 300 horsepower and a turbocharged 2.7-liter V6 with 330 horsepower. Both engines provided ample power, and the Bronco's off-road capabilities were exceptional, with features like a seven-speed manual transmission with a crawl gear and a 10-speed automatic. The Bronco excelled in challenging terrains, such as deep mud and steep rock climbs, and its performance on pavement was commendable, offering a smoother ride than the Jeep Wrangler. The Bronco's versatility made it a strong contender for those seeking both off-road adventures and comfortable road trips.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, offering three comfortable rows of seats and ample cargo space. It featured triple-zone climate control, quality leather upholstery, and numerous storage solutions, including a large floor tray and a long storage bin. 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 Ford Bronco's boxy design contributed to its spacious interior, offering generous headroom and legroom. Cargo capacity varied depending on the model and roof type, with the two-door hard top providing up to 52.3 cubic feet with seats folded, while the four-door hard top offered up to 77.6 cubic feet. The Bronco featured clever storage solutions, such as netted door pockets and accessory rails, and offered options for stowable doors and removable fender flares. Its utility was further enhanced by external hard mounting points for racks and light bars.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was equipped 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 multiple user profiles and included features like FamCam for monitoring rear passengers. However, the voice recognition technology was inconsistent. The Pacifica Hybrid also offered a 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system and an available rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV.

The 2022 Ford Bronco utilized the Sync 4 infotainment system, known for its quick responses and sharp graphics. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with helpful off-road apps. The Bronco's technology enhanced its off-road capabilities, with features like G.O.A.T. modes for different terrains and a forward-looking trail camera for navigating obstacles. The Trail Turn Assist feature allowed for sharper turns in tight spaces, and the Bronco's technology offerings were well-integrated with its rugged design.

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 system required refinement. 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.

The 2022 Ford Bronco included standard safety features like hill-start assist and trailer sway control. Optional packages added features such as frontal collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The Bronco received a four-star rating for frontal crash protection and a three-star rating for rollover protection from the NHTSA. The IIHS awarded it top scores in frontal, side, and roof strength tests.