2023 Mazda CX-30 vs 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, despite its minivan label, offered practical advantages that many three-row midsize crossover SUVs lacked. Its sliding side doors made it easy to load children in tight parking spaces, and its plug-in hybrid status was unique among mainstream brands. However, it wasn't a head-turner, even with the S Appearance Package, and its price tag was steep, starting at $49,095 for the base Touring L and climbing to $57,680 for a fully loaded Limited trim with extras.

Inside, the Pacifica Hybrid featured quality materials like black Nappa premium leather, but its rounded, flowing design felt dated compared to more modern, angular styles. Chrysler didn't try to disguise the Pacifica's minivan identity, which could be a drawback for those seeking a more rugged image. Despite its high cost, the Pacifica Hybrid's interior comfort and utility were undeniable, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 came in two main variants: the 2.5 S with a 191-horsepower engine and the 2.5 Turbo with up to 250 horsepower. All models featured a six-speed automatic transmission and AWD. The 2.5 S ranged from $22,950 to $31,500, while the 2.5 Turbo started at $33,800 and went up to $37,505 for the Premium Plus trim.

The CX-30's design was artful but marred by excessive gray body cladding. Inside, it offered an upscale cabin with quality materials, especially in the 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus trim, which featured off-white leather and a chocolate brown center console. However, the front passenger seat lacked adjustability, and rear legroom was tight. Cargo space was also limited, with just 20.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 45.2 cubic feet with them folded down.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid's plug-in hybrid drivetrain combined a 3.6-liter V6 engine 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 nearly imperceptible, and the regenerative braking system helped recharge the battery.

However, the Pacifica Hybrid's driving experience was unremarkable. The steering was light and uncommunicative, and the regenerative brakes occasionally felt too grabby. Despite its efficient powertrain, the Pacifica Hybrid drove like a four-wheeled appliance, lacking the engaging dynamics of some competitors.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S gained five horsepower for a total of 191, while the 2.5 Turbo offered up to 250 horsepower with premium fuel. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and AWD. The CX-30's turbocharged engine provided robust acceleration and a satisfying engine note, but the small 12.7-gallon fuel tank limited its range.

The CX-30 excelled on twisty roads, thanks to its G-Vectoring Control Plus and well-tuned suspension. However, the front suspension struggled with speed bumps, and the brake pedal required more effort than expected. Despite these issues, the CX-30 was quiet and refined on the highway, making it a pleasant daily driver.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, offering three comfortable rows of seats and up to 140.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the second-row seats removed. The interior featured quality materials, triple-zone automatic climate control, and ample storage options. However, the second-row seats were heavy and cumbersome to remove, and the Pacifica Hybrid lacked an onboard vacuum cleaner.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 offered standard dual-zone automatic climate control, an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, and heated front seats. However, the front passenger seat had limited adjustability, and rear legroom was tight. Cargo space was also limited, with just 20.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 45.2 cubic feet with them folded down. The CX-30's interior was upscale, but its practicality was compromised by its compact size.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The system was user-friendly but prone to fingerprints. The available FamCam overhead camera system was a great feature for parents, and the 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system provided decent audio quality. However, the voice recognition technology was hit-and-miss.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30's Mazda Connect infotainment system had several flaws, including the lack of a touchscreen, poor voice recognition, and no tuning knob. The 8.8-inch display was well-integrated into the dashboard, but the controls on the center console required quick glances down, which could be distracting. The system included Bluetooth, HD Radio, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, with Turbos adding SiriusXM satellite radio and a 14-speaker Bose sound system.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted 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 needed refinement, as it was slow to recognize lane departures and overly aggressive in braking. The Pacifica earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 also excelled in safety, earning a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS. It featured adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. The 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus trim added a surround-view camera, parking sensors, and Traffic Jam Assist. The forward-collision warning system worked well but could be overly sensitive in certain situations.