2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2022 Toyota 4Runner

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 offered practical features like sliding side doors, making it convenient for families. Its design, while not particularly striking, was functional, and the interior, though comfortable with quality materials, appeared somewhat dated compared to more modern, angular designs. The Pacifica Hybrid was priced on the higher side, with the Limited trim reaching over $57,000 before tax credits, but it offered a unique combination of hybrid efficiency and minivan practicality.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota 4Runner maintained its rugged, off-road-ready persona, a nod to its roots in the 1980s SUV craze. Unlike many modern SUVs that have shifted to car-based platforms, the 4Runner stayed true to its truck-based origins, sharing underpinnings with the Toyota Tacoma. This made it a niche choice for those who valued off-road capability over the more family-oriented features of crossovers. The 4Runner's design was unapologetically utilitarian, with a high ride height and boxy proportions that emphasized its adventurous spirit. Inside, the 4Runner's cabin reflected its age, with a layout reminiscent of the late 2000s, but it offered a straightforward, functional environment for those who appreciated its traditional SUV character.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was powered by a plug-in hybrid drivetrain that combined a 3.6-liter V6 engine with a dual-motor electric drive system, producing a total of 260 horsepower. This setup 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 smooth, and the regenerative braking system helped recharge the battery during driving. On a test loop in Los Angeles, the Pacifica Hybrid achieved an impressive average fuel economy of 37.1 mpg. However, the driving experience was described as uninspiring, with light steering and unremarkable regenerative brakes, making it feel more like an appliance than an engaging vehicle.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner, on the other hand, was equipped with a 4.0-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission, provided reliable performance but felt dated and underwhelming in most driving situations. The 4Runner's ride was rough and cumbersome on paved roads, with noticeable body roll and a harsh suspension. However, these characteristics transformed into strengths when off-roading, where the 4Runner excelled with its ability to tackle rough terrain. The TRD Pro and TRD Off-Road models further enhanced its off-road capabilities with features like Crawl Control and a locking differential. The 4Runner could tow up to 5,000 pounds, which was more than most car-based crossovers.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, offering three comfortable rows of seats and a maximum cargo capacity of 140.5 cubic feet with the second-row seats removed. The interior featured quality materials, triple-zone automatic climate control, and ample storage options. 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 third-row seat was reasonably comfortable, and the Pacifica Hybrid provided 32.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind it. However, the lack of an onboard vacuum cleaner and the need to manually remove the second-row seats were minor drawbacks.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner offered a maximum cargo capacity of 89.7 cubic feet in the two-row version, with 47.2 cubic feet available behind the second row. The optional third-row seat reduced maximum cargo space to 88.8 cubic feet, with just 9 cubic feet behind the rear seats. The 4Runner's cabin was not as spacious or efficiently packaged as more modern SUVs, but it provided adequate room for passengers and gear. The power-open/close rear window was a standout feature, making it easy to access the cargo area. Despite its age, the 4Runner's interior was functional, though it could benefit from more efficient use of space.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen display. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa compatibility, and connected services, including a Wi-Fi hotspot. The system allowed for multiple user profiles and had a FamCam overhead camera system for monitoring rear-seat passengers. However, the voice recognition technology was inconsistent, and the Harman Kardon premium sound system required adjustments for optimal sound quality. The Pacifica Hybrid also offered an Amazon Fire TV-enabled rear-seat entertainment system, though it might not be necessary for families with personal devices.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. It included Bluetooth connectivity, Satellite Radio, and multiple USB ports. While the system was straightforward and relied on tactile controls, it lacked advanced features like a head-up display. The 4Runner's infotainment system covered the basics but was not as advanced as those in more modern vehicles. However, its simplicity and tactile controls were appreciated by those who valued a more analog driving experience.

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 resume speed and braked too hard in certain situations. Despite these issues, the Pacifica Hybrid offered a robust package of driver-assist and collision-avoidance features.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner was equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense suite, which included forward automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and lane-departure warning. Additional safety features like blind-spot monitoring and a surround-view camera system were available. The 4Runner earned four stars in frontal and side-impact testing from the NHTSA but received three stars for rollover testing. It was backed by a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.