2022 GMC Yukon vs 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, despite its minivan label, offered a practical and efficient solution for families. It might not have been the most stylish vehicle, even with the S Appearance Package, but it provided unique features like sliding side doors, which made loading children in tight parking spaces a breeze. The Pacifica Hybrid's interior, with its black Nappa premium leather, felt high-quality, though its rounded styling appeared somewhat dated compared to more modern designs. The vehicle's price was steep, starting at $49,095 for the base Touring L and going up to $57,645 for the Pinnacle version, but it did qualify for a $7,500 federal income tax credit.

In contrast, the 2022 GMC Yukon exuded a premium feel, especially with its extensive use of chrome, which was particularly prominent on the Denali trim. The Denali's front end, dominated by a vast chrome grille, gave it a commanding presence. The 22-inch bright machined aluminum wheels and dark Redwood Metallic paint added to its striking appearance. The off-road-oriented AT4 trim had its unique styling, including a dark grille and red recovery hooks. Inside, the Yukon offered a spacious and tastefully crafted cabin with standard seating for eight, or seven with the second-row captain's chairs. The Denali trim featured exclusive interior designs, such as the Teak/Light Shale color combo, adding a premium touch.

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 16-kWh battery pack 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 nearly imperceptible, and the regenerative braking system helped recharge the battery. During testing, the Pacifica Hybrid achieved an average fuel economy of 37.1 mpg on a mixed driving loop. However, the driving experience was somewhat dull, with light and uncommunicative steering and an unremarkable regenerative braking system.

The 2022 GMC Yukon offered three engine choices, including a 5.3-liter V8 with 355 horsepower, a 6.2-liter V8 with 420 horsepower, and a 3.0-liter turbodiesel engine with 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. The turbodiesel engine provided excellent fuel economy and a range of up to 648 miles on a tank. All engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, with rear-wheel drive standard and four-wheel drive optional. The AT4 trim came exclusively with 4WD and featured a two-speed transfer case for better off-road control. The Yukon's maximum towing capacity was 8,400 pounds with the 5.3-liter engine and the Max Trailering Package. The independent rear suspension improved ride quality and handling, though some bouncing was noted over rough pavement.

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 automatic climate control, quality leather upholstery, and heated and ventilated front seats. Storage options were plentiful, 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, though they did not collapse into the floor. The third-row seat was reasonably comfortable, and the Pacifica Hybrid provided 32.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind it. With the third-row seats folded, cargo space increased to 87.5 cubic feet, and with the second-row seats removed, it offered up to 140.5 cubic feet.

The 2022 GMC Yukon addressed previous shortcomings with its redesign, increasing third-row legroom by more than 10 inches to 34.9 inches. Cargo space behind the third row also increased to 25.5 cubic feet. The second-row seats folded flat, and power fold-and-tumble bucket seats were available for easier access to the third row. The power-sliding center console revealed additional storage space, and power-retractable assist steps made entry and exit easier. The pushbutton transmission controls took some getting used to but eventually became second nature.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen display, offering appealing graphics, a simple user interface, and speedy response. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, Amazon Alexa compatibility, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The available FamCam overhead camera system allowed parents to check on rear-seat passengers. The 20-speaker Harman Kardon premium sound system required some adjustment for optimal sound quality. The rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV was available but might be unnecessary if passengers had their own devices.

The 2022 GMC Yukon came standard with a 12-inch reconfigurable driver information center and a 15-inch multi-color head-up display on the Denali trim. The 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system included Google Built-In, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The Bose 14-speaker audio system in the Denali trim was adequate but not exceptional. The rear-seat media system featured dual 12.6-inch LCD HD touchscreens compatible with various media formats, though additional adapters might be needed for some devices.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including a rear-seat reminder system. It earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. However, the adaptive cruise control system needed refinement, as it was slow to recognize lane departures and overly cautious when other vehicles cut in.

The 2022 GMC Yukon came with GMC's Pro Safety suite, including automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assistance. The Pro Safety Plus package added blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and rear park assist. The Safety Alert Seat and rear camera mirror enhanced safety further. The Yukon received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with four stars for front crash protection, five stars for side crash protection, and three stars for rollover resistance. The IIHS had not yet tested the current-generation Yukon.