2022 Jeep Wrangler vs 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, despite its minivan label, offered practical advantages that many three-row midsize crossover SUVs couldn't match. Its sliding side doors made loading children in tight parking spaces a breeze, and its plug-in hybrid status set it apart in a market lacking similar options. However, its rounded, flowing design appeared soft and dated, and even with the S Appearance Package, it wasn't a head-turner. The interior, though nice with black Nappa premium leather, didn't hide its minivan identity, which could be a deal-breaker for some.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Wrangler presented a rugged, adventurous image that appealed to those seeking an off-road experience. Buyers had to choose between a two-door or four-door model and various powertrains, including a turbocharged four-cylinder, gasoline V6, turbodiesel V6, gas V8, or plug-in hybrid. The Wrangler's High Tide special edition, based on the four-door Sport S trim, added features like LED exterior lighting, a body-color hardtop, and a 1.5-inch suspension lift. Despite its high price, the Wrangler's basic interior and rough ride were part of its charm, offering a unique, immersive driving experience.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in efficiency and practicality. Its plug-in hybrid drivetrain, based on a 3.6-liter V6 engine paired with a dual-motor electric drive system, produced a total of 260 horsepower. The van could travel up to 32 miles on electric power alone, making it ideal for short commutes and errands. On a Los Angeles driving loop, it achieved an impressive average fuel economy of 37.1 mpg. The transition between electric and gasoline power was nearly imperceptible, and the regenerative braking system helped recharge the battery. However, the Pacifica Hybrid's driving experience was dull, with light steering, unremarkable brakes, and a lack of cornering grip.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide, equipped with a 3.6-liter V6 engine and eTorque mild-hybrid electrification, delivered 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. The eight-speed automatic transmission and Selec-Trac full-time 4WD system were mandatory options. Despite an EPA rating of 21 mpg in combined driving, the Wrangler averaged 16.8 mpg over a week of testing. The Wrangler's driving experience was loud, rough, and required frequent fuel stops, but it offered a unique, sensory-rich experience that appealed to off-road enthusiasts. The High Tide's raised suspension and 35-inch tires enhanced its off-road capabilities, but the ride quality and handling were compromised.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, offering three comfortable rows of 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 chairs, but they didn't collapse into the floor, requiring removal for maximum 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 Jeep Wrangler High Tide's raised suspension made entry and exit challenging, especially for shorter individuals. The interior featured durable cloth upholstery and plastic and rubber materials, with some padded spots for comfort. Visibility was a mixed bag, with excellent downward views but compromised rear visibility due to the spare tire. Rear-seat passengers faced similar entry challenges but enjoyed agreeable accommodations once inside. Cargo space was limited to 31.7 cubic feet behind the rear seat, expanding to 72.4 cubic feet with the rear seat folded. The tailgate's heavy 35-inch spare tire added to the difficulty of loading cargo.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, offering appealing graphics, a simple user interface, and speedy response. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa compatibility, and connected services. The available FamCam overhead camera system was a great feature for parents. However, the voice recognition technology was hit-and-miss. The 20-speaker Harman Kardon premium sound system required adjustments for optimal sound quality. The rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV was available but not essential if passengers had their own devices.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide, based on Sport S trim, had a basic 7-inch touchscreen display with Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The optional Uconnect 8.4 infotainment system offered upgrades like satellite radio, connected services, and a navigation system, but the basic setup sufficed for most needs. The Wrangler High Tide included remote engine starting, satellite radio, passive keyless entry, and single-zone automatic climate control with a new air filtration system. The Cold Weather Group added heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, extending the open-air driving season.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted a comprehensive package of standard driver-assist and collision-avoidance features, including a rear-seat reminder system. However, adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assist was not available. The adaptive cruise control needed refinement, as it was slow to recognize departing vehicles and braked too hard when other motorists cut in. 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 Jeep Wrangler High Tide included the Safety Group and Advanced Safety Group, adding blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, rear parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and automatic high-beam headlights. The Wrangler's small side mirrors and tall center of gravity made the Safety Group a worthy upgrade. However, the Wrangler's crash-test ratings were mediocre, with a three-star rating for rollover resistance from the NHTSA and Marginal ratings from the IIHS for small overlap crash-test protection and side-impact performance. Safety features were optional rather than standard.