2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2023 Lexus RX

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, despite its minivan label, offered a practical solution for families needing efficient transportation. While it didn't boast the rugged image of an SUV, it provided the convenience of sliding side doors, making it easier to load children in tight spaces. The Pacifica Hybrid stood out as a unique option, being the only plug-in hybrid minivan available, with no direct SUV counterpart offering the same seating capacity and hybrid technology. Its design, though not particularly striking, was functional, and the interior, with its quality leather, was comfortable but somewhat dated compared to more modern styles.

In contrast, the 2023 Lexus RX presented a fresh take on the luxury SUV segment. It maintained the same overall length as its predecessor but appeared smaller due to design tweaks like reduced rear overhang and a floating roof effect. The RX's signature spindle grille was more integrated, and the exterior styling was both familiar and modern. Inside, the RX offered a contemporary cabin with fewer buttons, digital instrumentation, and a choice of touchscreen displays. The quality was high, as expected from Lexus, with options for premium materials and a focus on modern technology integration.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured a plug-in hybrid drivetrain with a 3.6-liter V6 engine paired with a dual-motor electric drive system, producing a total of 260 horsepower. It could 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 brakes, though the powertrain's efficiency was praised.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350, with its turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, delivered 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. It offered a smooth ride, though the Luxury trim showed some body motion over uneven surfaces. The F Sport Handling trim, with its adaptive suspension, provided a more secure and engaging drive. The RX 350's fuel economy was slightly lower than expected, with real-world results of 22.5 mpg for FWD and 21.8 mpg for AWD. The turbo engine, while less refined than the previous V6, offered better performance at higher altitudes.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, with three comfortable rows of seats and ample cargo space. It featured triple-zone climate control, quality leather upholstery, and numerous storage solutions. The second-row seats were more comfortable than the standard Pacifica's Stow n' Go seats, though they required removal for maximum cargo space. The third-row seat was reasonably comfortable, and the Pacifica Hybrid offered 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 Lexus RX provided a comfortable interior with options for premium materials and advanced seating adjustments. The RX 350 Luxury featured semi-aniline leather, while the F Sport Handling had sportier NuLuxe seats. The back seat was roomy, though taller passengers might find headroom tight. Lexus improved cargo space over the previous model, with 29.6 cubic feet behind the second row and 46.2 cubic feet with it folded, though this was still less than some competitors.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid came with the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, featuring a 10.1-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. It allowed for multiple user profiles and included a FamCam system for monitoring rear passengers. The Harman Kardon sound system required adjustment for optimal sound quality, and the rear-seat entertainment system, though advanced, was often bypassed by tech-savvy passengers using personal devices.

The 2023 Lexus RX introduced the new Lexus Interface infotainment system with a choice of 9.8-inch or 14-inch touchscreens. It included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and various connected services. The Intelligent Assistant voice recognition was generally accurate, though it occasionally misinterpreted requests. The system allowed for user profiles and streaming services, though it lacked the ability to display multiple data panels simultaneously. The Mark Levinson sound system offered excellent audio quality with some adjustment.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted a comprehensive suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and lane-keeping assist. However, the adaptive cruise control needed refinement, particularly in recognizing lane changes and moderating speed. The Pacifica earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though its frontal-impact protection was rated four stars.

The 2023 Lexus RX came equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring advanced driving assistance systems like motorcycle detection and evasive steering assistance. New semi-autonomous technologies included Proactive Driving Assist and Traffic Jam Assist, though the latter required constant driver attention. The system's curve-speed reduction was not predictive, and the HUD was difficult to see with polarized sunglasses. Despite these issues, LSS+ 3.0 was generally impressive.