2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, despite its minivan label, offered practical advantages that many three-row midsize crossover SUVs lacked. 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 with no direct competitors. However, its rounded, flowing design appeared dated, and even with the S Appearance Package, it wasn't a head-turner. The interior, though equipped with quality black Nappa leather, didn't hide its minivan identity, which could be a deal-breaker for some buyers.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 presented a more subtle and refined look compared to its flashier competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. The base model avoided gaudy grilles, while the AMG and Maybach versions offered more visual drama with flared wheel arches, chrome accents, and larger wheels. Inside, the GLS 450's interior, though basic by GLS standards, still felt luxurious with leather upholstery, a panoramic roof, and ambient lighting. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen were well-integrated, enhancing the overall upscale feel.

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 for up to 32 miles of electric-only driving, 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. However, the driving experience was described as dull, with light steering, unremarkable brakes, and a lack of cornering grip.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 came with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine and a nine-speed automatic transmission, assisted by the EQ Boost mild-hybrid system. This setup produced 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, with an additional 21 hp and 184 lb-ft available from the electric motor in short bursts. The GLS 450's engine provided ample power, and the inline-six configuration ensured smooth operation. However, the air suspension exhibited poor body control, leading to excessive bouncing and leaning in corners. The GLS 450 had a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds, which was competitive but not class-leading.

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 numerous storage solutions. The second-row seats were more comfortable than the standard Stow n’ Go chairs, though they couldn't collapse into the floor. The third-row seat was reasonably comfortable, and the cargo area offered 32.3 cubic feet of space, expandable to 87.5 cubic feet with the third-row seats folded. Removing the second-row seats increased cargo capacity to 140.5 cubic feet.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a seven-seat configuration with a 60/40 split-folding second-row bench seat and two third-row seats. An optional six-seat version replaced the bench with captain’s chairs. The second-row seats could slide forward and fold for third-row access, and the cargo space ranged from 17.4 cubic feet with all seats in place to 84.7 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The GLS featured one-touch power-folding seats and a power tailgate, with the air suspension lowering for easier loading. However, the touchscreen was difficult to reach, and some ergonomic issues were noted.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid came with the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, featuring a 10.1-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The system allowed for five user profiles and included a FamCam overhead camera system. However, the voice recognition technology was hit-and-miss, and the Harman Kardon premium sound system required adjustments for optimal sound quality. The rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV was available but deemed unnecessary by some users.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and natural-language voice recognition. The system offered multiple control options, including voice commands, a touchpad controller, and the touchscreen itself. The voice recognition system was particularly effective, but the touchpad controller was found to be cumbersome. The GLS lacked the augmented-reality navigation feature available in other Mercedes models, and the embedded navigation system occasionally suggested inefficient routes.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including a rear-seat reminder system, 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 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, though its frontal-impact protection rated four stars.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came with a long list of standard safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and a surround-view camera system. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and advanced driver-assistance systems like Active Steering Assist and Active Lane Change Assist. Crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were not available at the time of publication.