2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer vs 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, despite being a minivan, offered practical advantages that many three-row midsize crossover SUVs couldn't match. Its sliding side doors made loading children in tight parking spaces a breeze, and its plug-in hybrid drivetrain was unique among mainstream brands. However, its rounded, flowing exterior and interior styling appeared soft and dated, and it wasn't cheap, with the base model starting at $49,095. The interior, though nice with black Nappa premium leather, didn't hide its minivan identity, unlike the more stylish Kia Carnival.

In contrast, the 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer looked like a mini version of the Chevrolet Blazer midsize crossover, exuding SUV toughness without appearing exaggerated. The Activ and RS models had unique styling elements, with the Activ aiming for a rugged look and the RS for a sportier appearance. The Trailblazer's interior featured a mix of leatherette upholstery and various trims, giving it a distinctive personality. Despite its small size, it offered a comfortable cabin with thoughtful design touches, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a stylish and practical subcompact SUV.

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 Pacifica Hybrid's driving experience was dull, with light steering, unremarkable regenerative brakes, and a lack of cornering grip. Despite these drawbacks, its powertrain was efficient, achieving an average fuel economy of 37.1 mpg on a mixed driving loop.

The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer shared its platform and powertrains with the Buick Encore GX. It offered a standard 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine with 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque, and an optional 1.3-liter turbo-three with 155 hp and 174 lb-ft of torque. The 1.2-liter engine was available only with front-wheel drive (FWD), while the 1.3-liter engine could be paired with either FWD or all-wheel drive (AWD). Our Trailblazer Activ test car had the 1.3-liter engine and AWD, providing a decent amount of power and a pleasing exhaust note. The nine-speed automatic transmission, though occasionally rough, contributed to a composed and nimble ride. The Trailblazer's selectable AWD system required manual engagement, unlike competitors' automatic systems, and it offered Normal, Sport, and Snow drive modes.

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 heated and ventilated front seats. Storage options were plentiful, with extra shelves, a large floor 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 chairs, but they didn't collapse into the floor, requiring removal for maximum cargo space. 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 Chevrolet Trailblazer, though one of the smallest SUVs on the market, offered decent utility. It matched the Kia Seltos on front and rear headroom and provided more rear legroom than the Hyundai Kona and Buick Encore GX. The rear seats were comfortable for normal use, but the flat cushions made long trips less appealing. The Trailblazer's cargo space measured 25.3 cubic feet with the second-row seats in place and 54.4 cubic feet with them folded, respectable for the segment. Up front, designers maximized space with a covered storage bin, a deep tray, and other thoughtful storage solutions.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, offering appealing graphics, a simple user interface, and speedy response. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, Amazon Alexa compatibility, and connected services. The available FamCam overhead camera system allowed parents to monitor rear-seat passengers. 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 might be unnecessary for families with their own devices.

The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer came with a standard 7-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, Bluetooth, and a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot. Optional features included an 8-inch touchscreen, navigation, a Bose audio system, rear-seat USB ports, and wireless phone charging. While the Trailblazer's tech offerings might not satisfy the most tech-savvy buyers, the 8-inch touchscreen was well-sized for the dashboard, and the combination of a smaller instrument cluster screen and analog gauges conveyed information effectively.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted a comprehensive package of standard driver-assist and collision-avoidance features, including a rear-seat reminder system. However, it lacked adaptive cruise control paired with lane-centering assist. The adaptive cruise control needed refinement, as it was slow to recognize lane departures and inept at 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, with a four-star rating for frontal-impact protection.

The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer included standard safety features such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, lane departure warning, automatic high beams, and a Teen Driver system. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The Trailblazer received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with top scores in frontal and side crash tests and a four-star rating in rollover testing.