2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2023 Lincoln Navigator

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 a starting price of $49,095 for the base Touring L trim. The Limited trim, which was tested, came with additional features, bringing the price to $57,680. Its interior, though comfortable with quality leather, appeared somewhat dated compared to more modern designs.

In contrast, the 2023 Lincoln Navigator maintained its luxurious appeal without significant changes from previous years. The test vehicle, a triple-black Navigator Reserve model, featured a Monochromatic Package with black 22-inch wheels and body-color trim. Priced at $104,715, it included a Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system, though it went unused by the teenagers in the test. The Navigator's interior, while upscale with real wood trim and chrome accents, sometimes fell short in conveying luxury due to the use of chrome plastic on switchgear. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Navigator continued to offer a spacious and comfortable cabin.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in efficiency, powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine paired with a dual-motor electric drive system, delivering a total of 260 horsepower. Its 16-kWh battery allowed for up to 32 miles of electric-only driving, making it ideal for short commutes and errands. The Pacifica Hybrid achieved an impressive average fuel economy of 37.1 mpg during testing, outperforming its rival, the Toyota Sienna, in terms of powertrain smoothness and efficiency. However, the driving experience was less engaging, with light steering and unremarkable regenerative brakes.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator, equipped with a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, offered 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. It featured a 10-speed automatic transmission and a 4WD drivetrain, with an EPA fuel economy rating of 18 mpg in combined driving. During testing, it averaged 15.6 mpg. The Navigator provided various drive modes, including Excite, which enhanced performance but reduced fuel efficiency. While the SUV handled well on mountain roads, its size proved challenging in urban environments, and the brakes struggled with the vehicle's weight.

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. The second-row seats were more comfortable than the standard Pacifica's Stow n' Go chairs, though they required removal for maximum 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 seats folded, and up to 140.5 cubic feet with the second-row seats removed.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator prioritized functionality, with roomy seats in all three rows and an available extended body style for increased cargo capacity. The test vehicle featured 30-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. While the front seats offered numerous adjustments, finding the perfect setting proved challenging. The Navigator's storage space was generous, and the extended-length Navigator L model provided significantly more cargo space. The standard model offered 19.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 103.3 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen display, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The system allowed for five user profiles and included a FamCam overhead camera system for monitoring rear-seat passengers. The test vehicle also had a 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, though its default settings required adjustment for optimal sound quality. The rear-seat entertainment system, featuring Amazon Fire TV, went unused by teenagers during testing.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator boasted a 12-inch digital instrumentation display and a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system with the Sync 4 interface. It included wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM 360L satellite radio, and Alexa Built-in. The digital assistant performed well, accurately responding to voice commands. The test vehicle featured a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D Audio System, delivering impressive sound quality. The Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system, however, was not utilized by teenagers, who preferred their smartphones.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid came equipped with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and lane-keeping assist. However, the adaptive cruise control required refinement, as it was slow to resume speed and braked too hard when other vehicles 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 Lincoln Navigator featured advanced driving assistance systems, including Evasive Steering Assist, Intersection Assist, and BlueCruise, a hands-free driving assist system. BlueCruise, however, struggled with curves and construction zones, requiring driver intervention. The Navigator received a five-star side-impact protection rating and a four-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA, though a full crashworthiness assessment was unavailable.