2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2023 Hyundai Palisade

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, despite its minivan label, offered practical advantages over three-row midsize crossover SUVs. Its sliding side doors made it easier to load children in tight parking spaces, and its plug-in hybrid status set it apart from other minivans and SUVs. However, its rounded, flowing design appeared soft and dated, and even with the S Appearance Package, it wasn't a head-turner. The interior, though equipped with quality black Nappa leather, didn't hide its minivan identity, which could be a drawback for those seeking a more rugged image.

In contrast, the 2023 Hyundai Palisade received a styling update that enhanced its commanding presence. The new front fascia, squared-off grille, and LED lighting gave it a stronger look. The top Calligraphy trim featured premium rear accent lighting, unique grille, and body-color bumpers, while the new XRT trim added dark grille and roof cross rails. The interior of the Calligraphy trim was stylish, with premium Nappa leather and a dual-pane sunroof. The Palisade's design updates made it visually appealing and aligned with current trends.

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, it achieved an average fuel economy of 37.1 mpg. However, the driving experience was described as dull, with light and uncommunicative steering and an unremarkable regenerative braking system.

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade came with a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain was competitive for its class, offering more power than several rivals. The eight-speed automatic transmission could be controlled with paddle shifters, and AWD was available for an additional $1,900. The Palisade's towing capacity was 5,000 pounds, and it featured a dedicated Tow Mode for AWD models. Fuel economy for FWD models was 19 mpg city, 27 highway, and 22 combined, while AWD models achieved 19 city, 25 highway, and 21 combined. The Palisade provided a comfortable ride and was capable of light off-roading.

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 impressive, with various bins and shelves throughout the cabin. The second-row seats were more comfortable than the standard Pacifica's Stow n' Go seats but did not collapse into the floor. 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 Hyundai Palisade offered spacious seating for seven or eight passengers, with 44.1 inches of legroom in the front row, 42.4 in the second, and 31.4 in the third. The second-row seats easily facilitated access to the third row, and the third-row seats folded flat for additional cargo space. Cargo capacity was 18 cubic feet with all seats in place, 45.8 behind the second row, and 86.4 with the second and third rows folded. The Palisade featured HVAC vents in all three rows, dual-zone climate control, and a hands-free smart liftgate on all but the base trim.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was equipped with the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, featuring a 10.1-inch touchscreen display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. It allowed for simultaneous Bluetooth pairing for two devices and included a Wi-Fi hotspot. 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 teenagers during testing.

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade introduced several technological upgrades, including a new 12.3-inch color touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, navigation, and Bluetooth connectivity. A premium 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system was available in SEL models and standard in Limited and Calligraphy. The Palisade also featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a color head-up display, and an in-car intercom system. Hyundai's Bluelink connected vehicle system was standard on all trims, offering remote accessibility and management features. The Palisade was the first vehicle to get Digital Key 2 Touch, compatible with both Android and Apple devices.

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 system needed refinement, as it was slow to recognize lane departures and overly aggressive in braking when other vehicles cut in.

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade, while not yet rated for 2023, was expected to maintain its Top Safety Pick+ status from the IIHS. It came with Hyundai's Smart Sense suite of safety features, including forward collision avoidance, driver attention warning, and lane-keeping assist. Blind-spot collision avoidance and rear cross-traffic collision avoidance were newly standard. The Palisade also featured navigation-based Smart Cruise Control, Highway Driving Assist, and a full-display digital rearview mirror. Safe exit warning and rear seat occupant alert were standard on most trims.