2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was a unique offering in the minivan segment, standing out as a plug-in hybrid with the ability to transport up to seven people efficiently. Despite its minivan label, which some consumers found unappealing, the Pacifica Hybrid offered practical features like sliding side doors, making it convenient for families. Its design, however, was considered somewhat dated, and even with the S Appearance Package, it didn't quite match the stylish appeal of some competitors. The interior was comfortable, with quality materials like black Nappa leather, but the overall aesthetic was softer compared to the more modern, architectural designs gaining popularity.

In contrast, the 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid marked a significant departure from its predecessors with a more assertive and truck-like appearance. The sixth-generation model was longer and wider, giving it a more muscular stance. The CR-V retained its classic D-pillar taillights but updated them for a modern look. The interior followed Honda's trend toward a premium feel, with high-quality materials and thoughtful design elements like the honeycomb grille on the dash. The Sport Touring trim, in particular, offered a range of stylish features, including black roof rails and 19-inch wheels, enhancing its sporty appeal.

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. 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. However, the driving experience was described as dull, with light steering and unremarkable regenerative brakes. Despite its efficient powertrain, the Pacifica Hybrid's driving dynamics were likened to a four-wheeled appliance.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid, on the other hand, combined a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with a two-motor hybrid-electric system, delivering 204 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque. This made it the most powerful CR-V to date, with improved responsiveness and a towing capacity of up to 1,000 lbs. The CR-V Hybrid introduced a new "B" shifter position for increased regenerative braking and offered four drive modes, including a new Snow mode. The Real Time AWD system was updated for better torque distribution, and the CR-V Hybrid's fuel efficiency was impressive, with the FWD Sport trim achieving 40 mpg combined.

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 a range of storage solutions, including 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 required removal to maximize cargo space. The Pacifica Hybrid provided 32.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 87.5 cubic feet with the third row folded and 140.5 cubic feet with the second row removed.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid benefited from its larger exterior, resulting in increased interior volume. It offered 36.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 76.5 cubic feet with them folded. The CR-V Hybrid's rear seat legroom increased to 41 inches, providing ample space for passengers. The interior featured thoughtful storage solutions, including a cubby for smartphones and eight cupholders throughout the cabin. The Sport Touring model included a hands-free power tailgate, enhancing convenience for loading and unloading cargo.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was equipped with the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, featuring a 10.1-inch touchscreen display with appealing graphics and a user-friendly interface. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The available FamCam overhead camera system was a useful feature for parents. However, the voice recognition technology was inconsistent, 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 not widely used by passengers with personal devices.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid catered to consumer preferences with physical buttons for important functions. The Sport Touring trim featured a 9-inch touchscreen with a volume knob and hard Seek buttons. Both Hybrid models included USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity, and dual-zone climate control. The Sport Touring trim offered additional features like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless charging pad, and a 12-speaker Bose Premium audio system. Honda's smart navigation system optimized fuel efficiency based on the route, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted a comprehensive package of standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and lane-keeping assist. However, the adaptive cruise control system required refinement, as it was slow to resume travel speed and braked too hard in moderate traffic. 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 Honda CR-V Hybrid came equipped with the Honda Sensing suite of advanced driver-assistance technologies, including improved collision mitigation, road-departure mitigation, and lane-keeping assist systems. New safety features for 2023 included traffic jam assist, traffic sign recognition, and low-speed braking control. The CR-V Hybrid also featured a blind-spot information system and cross-traffic monitor. It received a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA, with additional structural enhancements for improved crash protection.