2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2023 Acura RDX

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was a minivan that didn't shy away from its identity. Despite the stigma some people associated with minivans, it offered practical features like sliding side doors, which made loading children in tight parking spaces a breeze. The Pacifica Hybrid's design, both inside and out, leaned towards a softer, more rounded aesthetic, which some might have found dated compared to the sharper, more architectural designs gaining popularity. Even with the S Appearance Package, it wasn't a head-turner, and its price tag reflected its premium positioning.

In contrast, the 2023 Acura RDX sported a sharp, angular style that set it apart in its class while remaining conventional enough to blend in. The front featured Acura's signature grille, flanked by sleek wraparound headlights, giving it a sporty and aggressive look. The side profile was marked by a distinctive character line, and the rear, though more conventional, still maintained a cohesive design. Inside, the RDX's vertical layout of the dashboard and center stack emphasized performance, with gear-selector buttons and a drive-mode dial taking center stage. The interior, while not as modern as some rivals, offered a familiar and user-friendly experience.

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 and uncommunicative steering, unremarkable regenerative brakes, and a lack of cornering grip.

The 2023 Acura RDX, powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, produced 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, it offered a 0-60 mph time of 6.7 seconds. The RDX's handling was sporty, with well-managed body roll and a comfortable ride. The advanced AWD system provided excellent traction, and the brake pedal offered reassuring firmness. The engine and exhaust note added to the sporty feel, making it a more engaging drive compared to the Pacifica Hybrid.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, offering three rows of comfortable seats and ample cargo space. The interior featured triple-zone automatic climate control, quality leather upholstery, and heated and ventilated front seats. Storage options were plentiful, with various bins, trays, and cupholders throughout the cabin. 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 seats were 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 and 140.5 cubic feet with the second-row seats removed.

The 2023 Acura RDX provided ample space for front passengers, with additional power adjustments for side bolsters and thigh extension in top trims. The rear seats accommodated average-sized adults comfortably, though taller passengers might find headroom limited. The cargo area offered 31.1 cubic feet of space, expandable to 79.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Storage options included a deep bin under the cargo floor, various bins and trays in the front, and small door pockets. However, the center stack's design took up unnecessary space, which could have been better utilized.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen display, offering appealing graphics, a simple user interface, and quick response times. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, Amazon Alexa compatibility, and connected services, including a Wi-Fi hotspot. The available FamCam overhead camera system allowed parents to monitor rear-seat passengers. However, the voice recognition technology was hit-or-miss, and the Harman Kardon premium sound system required adjustments for optimal sound quality.

The 2023 Acura RDX's infotainment system used a touchpad controller, which was challenging to use, especially while driving. The dashtop display was not a touchscreen, making the touchpad the primary input method. The system improved with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, allowing for easier navigation. The RDX also offered a Wi-Fi hotspot and remote monitoring via the Acuralink app. The top A-Spec Advanced trim featured a 16-speaker ELS audio system with potent bass and clear high notes.

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 needed refinement, particularly in recognizing departing vehicles and moderating speed when other motorists cut in.

The 2023 Acura RDX received five stars from the NHTSA for overall and side crash protection and four stars for frontal and rollover protection. The IIHS awarded it a Top Safety Pick+ rating. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keep assist. The Technology package added parking sensors, while the Advance package included a surround-view camera system and a head-up display.