2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2022 Honda Passport

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was a minivan that didn't shy away from its identity. Despite the stigma some associated with minivans, it offered practical features like sliding side doors, which made loading children in tight parking spaces a breeze. The Pacifica Hybrid was not a visual standout, even with the S Appearance Package, and it came with a hefty price tag. The interior, though comfortable with quality materials, felt somewhat dated compared to more modern designs. However, it was the only plug-in hybrid minivan available, making it a unique option for those seeking efficiency.

In contrast, the 2022 Honda Passport shared its platform with the Honda Ridgeline, Odyssey, and Pilot, giving it a familiar yet rugged appearance. The Passport's new styling aimed to provide a tougher look, especially in the TrailSport trim, which added off-road appeal. The interior was spacious and comfortable, with quality materials and thoughtful design. The Passport's design updates and new trim levels aimed to attract those looking for a capable and stylish midsize SUV.

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 drive system provided immediate torque, making the Pacifica feel adequately powered even when fully loaded. It could travel up to 32 miles on electric power alone, and the regenerative braking system helped recharge the battery. During testing, the Pacifica Hybrid achieved an average fuel economy of 37.1 mpg. The transition between electric and gasoline power was smooth, and the powertrain operated efficiently without requiring driver intervention. However, the driving experience was unremarkable, with light steering, grabby brakes, and limited cornering grip.

The 2022 Honda Passport retained its 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The Passport offered both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) options, with the AWD system featuring mechanical torque vectoring. The Passport's V6 engine provided smooth and satisfying acceleration, and the SUV averaged 21.3 mpg during testing. The Passport excelled on twisty roads, offering firm and communicative handling. However, the brakes could heat up and vibrate during mountain descents, which was a concern given the Passport's 5,000-pound towing capacity.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, offering three rows of comfortable seats and ample cargo space. The interior featured quality leather upholstery, triple-zone automatic climate control, and numerous storage options. The second-row seats were more comfortable than the standard Pacifica's Stow n’ Go seats but required removal to maximize cargo space. The third-row seat was reasonably comfortable, and the Pacifica Hybrid provided 32.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind it, expanding to 87.5 cubic feet with the third row folded and 140.5 cubic feet with the second row removed.

The 2022 Honda Passport offered easy entry and exit, with large, comfortable seats and a spacious interior. The Passport featured leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a triple-zone automatic climate control system. Rear passengers enjoyed ample legroom and a slightly elevated seating position. The Passport provided generous storage options, including a massive center console storage bin. Cargo space measured 41.2 cubic feet behind the rear seat, expanding to 77.7 cubic feet with the rear seat folded down. The Passport's simple utility and comfort made it a practical choice for daily use.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid came equipped 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 features like FamCam, a rear-seat entertainment system, and a 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. However, the voice recognition technology was hit-and-miss, and the sound quality required adjustment for optimal performance.

The 2022 Honda Passport's infotainment system included an 8-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and satellite radio. The TrailSport trim added a navigation system, while the Elite trim featured a 10-speaker premium sound system and HondaLink connected services. The system was functional but lacked a stereo tuning knob and had a clunky navigation system. Wireless smartphone charging was standard, but the Passport's technology offerings were not as advanced as some competitors.

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 needed refinement, particularly in recognizing departing vehicles and moderating speed in traffic. 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 Honda Passport included the Honda Sensing suite of driver aids, such as adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and lane-centering assist. The Passport also featured blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a rear-seat reminder system. However, the lane-departure warning and lane-centering assist functions were intrusive, and the adaptive cruise control was not smooth in traffic. The Passport earned five-star ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rating for front passenger protection and rollover resistance. The IIHS gave the Passport top ratings in most respects, with an Acceptable rating for front-passenger protection in a small overlap collision.