2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2023 Honda Pilot

When examining the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, the allure of this minivan was shadowed by the typical minivan stigma. Its image often conflicted with the rugged, adventurous persona that many drivers favored. While a three-row midsize crossover SUV portrayed a more active lifestyle, the Pacifica Hybrid offered practicality without the style attempting to mimic an SUV. However, the Pacifica Hybrid was unique in offering features like sliding side doors for convenient access, which clearly set it apart from AWD SUVs with taller hoods and added ground clearance.

The Pacifica Hybrid didn’t win any awards for appearance. Even the added S Appearance Package fell short of making it a head-turner. With a starting price of $49,095 for the base Touring L and going up to $57,645 for the Pinnacle trim, the Pacifica Hybrid was on the costly side. Our tested Limited trim hit the wallet at $57,680 despite its extra features and the $7,500 federal income tax credit. Inside, black Nappa premium leather provided a nice touch of quality, yet the rounded and flowing styling came off as soft and somewhat outdated when seen next to the sharper designs gaining popularity, e.g., the Kia Carnival. Chrysler embraced the minivan image rather than disguising it, which was both its strength and weakness.

In contrast, the 2023 Honda Pilot underwent a transformative redesign for a more rugged and substantial appearance. Its upright grille and boxier styling gave it a bolder and genuinely bigger look. Compared to its predecessor, the new model extended 3.4 inches longer, 1.5 inches wider, and 0.8 inches taller. These adjustments enhanced the aesthetic of the TrailSport model, which came equipped with off-road features including a one-inch taller ride height, chunky all-terrain tires, and supportive underbody skid plates.

The revamped interior took a more conventional approach but remained attractive and highly functional. Materials quality aligned with elevated class standards, providing a comfortable and practical cabin layout. Collectively, these updates made the new Pilot appealing, prioritizing function without sacrificing allure.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid packed a plug-in hybrid system centering around a dependable 3.6-liter V6 engine coupled with a dual-motor electric drive system. This setup produced a total system output of 260 horsepower. The V6 engine and electric motors worked seamlessly, delivering ample torque instantly. The Pacifica Hybrid maintained an impression of power under most conditions, even with full occupancy relying only on battery power.

This minivan boasted an electric-only range of up to 32 miles, facilitated by a 16-kWh battery pack. When combined with regenerative braking, it proved itself efficient over varied terrains. Our tests in Los Angeles found the Pacifica Hybrid achieving 37.1 mpg, thanks to its capability to blend electric and gasoline power effectively. However, driving dynamics were notably unremarkable, with light steering, less grip, and occasionally grabby brakes. While not thrilling to drive, the Pacifica Hybrid’s powertrain was notably efficient, though its dull drive might deter some buyers.

The 2023 Honda Pilot, on the other hand, was equipped with a new 3.5-liter V6 engine generating 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive (FWD) was standard, with all-wheel drive (AWD) optional across the lineup and standard on higher trims like the Elite and TrailSport.

Initial acceleration in the Pilot was prompt, providing a pleasant and responsive driving experience. The engine's hum was acceptable when pushed harder, showing off enough power without necessitating aggressive driving. Steering effort was light, which suited parking and maneuvering but felt a bit vague on highways. Off-road enthusiasts found the TrailSport trim’s elevated height and all-terrain tires added minor vibrations but improved rugged capabilities. This balance of on-road comfort and off-road capacity stood out in the segment, making the Pilot a versatile family SUV capable of tackling diverse duties.

Evaluating interior comfort and cargo capacity, minivans like the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid inevitably led the conversation. The Pacifica Hybrid excelled at delivering three rows of comfort and extensive cargo space, inline with efficient driving. It included triple-zone automatic climate control, premium leather seats, and assorted storage solutions. Practical touches like padded center console sides and easy-access storage bins ensured long drives were comfortable for all occupants.

The Pacifica Hybrid offered versatile seating with spacious second-row captain’s chairs, although at the cost of not having Stow n’ Go seats. Its third-row seating was relatively friendly for adults, and cargo space measured 32.3 cubic feet behind these seats, expanding to 87.5 cubic feet when the third row was folded. Maximum cargo capacity hit 140.5 cubic feet with the second-row seats removed, significantly surpassing typical midsize SUVs.

By comparison, the 2023 Honda Pilot’s interior, while less groundbreaking, was thoughtfully designed with practical storage features. Trim levels like EX-L and above came standard with a 9-inch infotainment touchscreen and ample modern tech, including wireless connectivity and multi-view camera systems for ease of use. The second-row seats offered a configurable middle seat and plenty of space, and a lower third row provided adequate albeit less premium comfort.

In cargo terms, the Pilot boasted 22.4 cubic feet behind its third row, 60.1 cubic feet with the second row folded, and maxed out at 114.3 cubic feet. This fell short of the Pacifica Hybrid but was still commendable for a midsize SUV, showing its strength in balancing family-friendly space with rugged versatility.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid’s Uconnect 5 infotainment system featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen, user-friendly interface, and advanced customization. Despite its susceptibility to fingerprints, the system impressed with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, simultaneous Bluetooth pairing, and connected services, including a Wi-Fi hotspot. However, the voice recognition had its flaws, particularly with more complex requests.

Offering features like a surround-view camera and parking assist automation, the Pacifica Hybrid catered well to tech-savvy families. Premium audio from the Harman Kardon sound system and innovative touches for rear-seat entertainment further showcased the Pacifica’s family-oriented design. However, personal devices often minimized the use of built-in entertainment.

In the 2023 Honda Pilot, higher trims enhanced the infotainment experience with larger touchscreens and wireless functionalities. Additional tech such as Honda’s CabinTalk, navigation, Bose audio, and a TrailWatch camera system on off-road trims added to its appeal. The infotainment system was intuitive, prioritizing clear functionality over fashionable visuals.

Safety was a strong suit for the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid. Chrysler equipped it with a comprehensive suite of driver-assist and collision-avoidance systems. These included adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a rear-seat reminder system, but the adaptive cruise control needed refinement in certain scenarios. The Pacifica Hybrid earned a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA, although its frontal-impact protection was rated four stars.

The 2023 Honda Pilot also came well-equipped with standard Honda Sensing features across all trims, such as forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added low-speed braking and surround-view cameras. In our tests, these systems operated efficiently, enhancing driving confidence. Expected to achieve top crash test scores, the Pilot’s robust safety features secured its family-friendly reputation.