2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2023 Buick Encore GX

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was a minivan that didn't shy away from its identity. Despite the stigma some people associated with minivans, the Pacifica Hybrid offered practical features like sliding side doors, which made it easier to load children in tight parking spaces. It wasn't a looker, even with the S Appearance Package, and it came with a hefty price tag. The interior, though nice with black Nappa premium leather, felt somewhat dated compared to more modern designs. Chrysler didn't try to disguise the Pacifica's minivan nature, which could be a drawback for those seeking a more stylish vehicle.

In contrast, the 2023 Buick Encore GX broke away from Buick's design history without forging a new path. Its rounded exterior and tall stance gave it awkward proportions that didn't quite capture the high-riding SUV look. Even with the optional Sport Touring Package, the changes were subtle and didn't significantly enhance its appearance. Inside, the Encore GX Essence trim offered leather upholstery and other expected features, but the abundance of plastic reminded occupants that it was still a lower-tier model in Buick's lineup. The dashboard and door panels had a dated, blob-like design, though the instrument cluster was a standout feature.

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 electric drive system provided immediate torque, making the Pacifica feel adequately powered even when fully loaded. It could travel up to 32 miles on electric power alone, and the regenerative braking system helped recharge the battery. During testing, the Pacifica Hybrid achieved an average fuel economy of 37.1 mpg. The transition between electric and gasoline power was nearly imperceptible, and the powertrain operated efficiently without requiring driver intervention. However, the driving experience was dull, with light steering, unremarkable brakes, and a lack of cornering grip.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX offered two turbocharged three-cylinder engines: a 1.2-liter producing 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque, and a 1.3-liter making 155 hp and 174 lb-ft of torque. Front-wheel drive models used a CVT, while all-wheel drive models had a nine-speed automatic transmission. The 1.3-liter AWD test car felt stronger than its specs suggested, but power delivery was not smooth, and the nine-speed automatic could be slow to respond. The Encore GX excelled in ride comfort and noise reduction, thanks to its well-damped suspension and active noise cancellation. However, it felt ponderous and awkward to drive, with slow and lifeless steering and significant body roll.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, offering three comfortable rows of seats and ample cargo space. It featured triple-zone automatic climate control, quality leather upholstery, and heated and ventilated front seats. Storage options were plentiful, with large door pockets, a center-console tray, and a long storage bin behind the center console. The second-row seats were more comfortable than the standard Pacifica's Stow n' Go seats but did not fold into the floor. The third-row seat was reasonably comfortable, and the Pacifica Hybrid provided 32.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind it. With the third-row seats folded, cargo space expanded to 87.5 cubic feet, and removing the second-row seats increased it to 140.5 cubic feet.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX offered competitive passenger space, with headroom and legroom comparable to rivals like the Hyundai Kona and Mazda CX-30. It provided 23.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats in place and 50.2 cubic feet with them folded. However, the front seats were placed close together, reducing the feeling of spaciousness, and lacked thigh support. Small-item storage was well-executed, with large door pockets and a space-efficient wireless phone charger. The instrumentation was clear and well-placed, but the lack of a hard button for the 360-degree camera view was a drawback.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen display. It offered appealing graphics, a simple user interface, and quick response times. The system 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-and-miss. The 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system required adjustments for optimal sound quality. The rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV was available but might be unnecessary for families with personal devices.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX came with a standard 8-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch driver information display. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Optional features included a built-in navigation system, head-up display, wireless phone charging, and an eight-speaker Bose audio system. The interface was user-friendly, with clear graphics and well-organized menus. The 8-inch touchscreen was adequate for the dashboard design, but back-seat passengers lacked USB ports.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including a rear-seat reminder system. It had adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and lane-keeping assist, though the adaptive cruise control needed refinement. 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 2023 Buick Encore GX included standard driver-assist features like automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane keep assist, lane departure warning, automatic high beams, and a Teen Driver system. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, automatic park assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, a 360-degree camera system, and a rearview camera mirror. The Encore GX received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was an IIHS Top Safety Pick for 2022.