2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2023 Acura MDX

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 was unique among mainstream brands. 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 equipped with quality black Nappa leather, didn't hide its minivan identity, which could be a turn-off for those seeking a more rugged image.

In contrast, the 2023 Acura MDX Type S presented a more luxurious and performance-oriented image. The fourth-generation MDX, the first Acura SUV to wear the Type S badge, featured subtle yet sporty design elements like chicane-design LED lights, quad exhaust outlets, and 21-inch wheels. Inside, it boasted perforated Milano leather, aluminum trim, and a Sport Appearance package. However, some design choices, like the gloss black plastic on the dashboard, made controls hard to find and use, and the electronic transmission switchgear could be confusing.

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. The regenerative braking system helped recharge the battery, and the transition between electric and gasoline power was nearly imperceptible. However, the Pacifica Hybrid's driving experience was dull, with light and uncommunicative steering, unremarkable regenerative brakes, and a lack of cornering grip.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S, powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque, aimed to deliver a thrilling driving experience. It featured a 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system. The MDX Type S also had an Integrated Dynamics System with multiple driving modes, including an exclusive Lift mode. Despite these enhancements, the MDX Type S struggled to provide a cohesive driving experience. The transmission was indecisive, the ride lacked compliance, and the brake pedal response was inconsistent. Additionally, the MDX Type S had poor fuel economy, averaging 16.9 mpg during testing.

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 Pacifica's Stow n’ Go seats, though they couldn't 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, expanding to 87.5 cubic feet with the third row folded and 140.5 cubic feet with the second row removed.

The 2023 Acura MDX offered three rows of seats with flexible second-row seating options. The Type S Advance trim included 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage, though the seats were firm and didn't hold occupants in place well during spirited driving. The second-row seat could slide forward and back, but the third row was best suited for children. The MDX's cargo area was practical, with 18.1 cubic feet of space behind the third row, 39.1 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 71.4 cubic feet with both rear rows folded. However, the interior design prioritized style over storage space.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with 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 a FamCam overhead camera system and a 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. However, the voice recognition technology was hit-and-miss, and the rear-seat entertainment system might be unnecessary for families with their own devices.

The 2023 Acura MDX's Digital Precision Cockpit included a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment display. However, the infotainment screen wasn't touch-sensitive and required the use of a True Touchpad Interface (TTI), which could be distracting and reduced storage space. The MDX featured wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa Built-In, along with a 25-speaker ELS Studio 3D audio system. The Advance package added a 10.5-inch head-up display, though the traffic sign recognition system occasionally misread speed limits.

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 when other vehicles cut in.

The 2023 Acura MDX included the Acura Watch suite of safety features, such as forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. It also had a blind-spot monitoring system and rear cross-traffic alert. The MDX 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 was slow to resume speed, and the collision warning system occasionally issued false alerts.