2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, despite its minivan stigma, 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 was unique among mainstream brands. However, its rounded, flowing design appeared soft and dated compared to more modern, architectural styles. The Pacifica Hybrid wasn't cheap, with the base Touring L starting at $49,095 and the Pinnacle version costing $57,645. Our test vehicle, a Limited trim with additional features, had an MSRP of $57,680, even after a $7,500 federal tax credit.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, particularly the GLC 300, was redesigned but retained a familiar look, with narrower taillights being the most noticeable change. The interior received a significant makeover, featuring a large vertical infotainment touchscreen and a tablet-like instrument panel. The GLC's cabin was modern, with excellent materials quality and solid construction. The returning GLC Coupe models maintained their older design but still offered some usability advantages. Overall, the GLC-Class continued to exude traditional luxury, even as rivals leaned more into sport and technology.

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 van could travel up to 32 miles on electric power alone, making it ideal for short commutes and errands. The regenerative braking system helped recharge the battery, and the transition between electric and gasoline power was nearly imperceptible. However, the Pacifica Hybrid's driving experience was dull, with light steering, unremarkable regenerative brakes, and limited cornering grip. Despite these drawbacks, the powertrain's efficiency and smooth operation were impressive.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 was powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, producing 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The nine-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive were standard, with 4Matic all-wheel drive available. The GLC 300 accelerated smoothly, reaching 60 mph in 6.2 seconds. The brake pedal effort was soft but effective, and the suspension favored comfort over sporty handling. The GLC 4Matic Coupe retained its older engine, while the AMG GLC 43 Coupe offered a sportier option with a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6, producing 385 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque, accelerating to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, offering three comfortable rows of seats and ample cargo space. The interior featured triple-zone automatic climate control, quality leather upholstery, and heated and ventilated front seats. Storage options were plentiful, with extra shelves, bins, and cupholders. The second-row seats were more comfortable than the standard Pacifica's Stow n' Go chairs but required removal to maximize cargo space. 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 Mercedes-Benz GLC's front seats offered ample adjustment and long-distance comfort, with synthetic leather upholstery that looked and felt substantial. The interior had a large center console bin, cupholders, and well-sized door pockets. The rear seats accommodated average adults comfortably, though headroom was slightly limited for taller passengers. The standard GLC provided 21.9 cubic feet of cargo space, which was smaller than rivals but still adequate. The rear seats folded flat for larger items, and the GLC Coupe's sloping roofline reduced cargo capacity to 17.6 cubic feet and rear headroom by 1.3 inches.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, offering appealing graphics, a simple user interface, and speedy response. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, Amazon Alexa compatibility, and connected services, including a Wi-Fi hotspot. The available FamCam overhead camera system was useful for parents, and the 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system required some adjustment for optimal sound quality. The rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV was available but not essential if passengers had their own devices.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC's new interior layout featured an 11.9-inch touchscreen with sharp graphics and immediate responses. However, its lower placement on the dash made it more distracting to use. The MBUX infotainment system had excellent voice recognition but could interrupt music or podcasts. The new system performed well but was more distracting due to the lack of physical buttons for audio and climate controls. Standard connectivity included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the available Burmester 3D Surround Sound system was a highlight for audio enthusiasts.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted a comprehensive package of standard driver-assist and collision-avoidance features, including a rear-seat reminder system. However, it lacked adaptive cruise control paired with lane-centering assist. The adaptive cruise control needed refinement, as it was slow to recognize lane departures and overly cautious 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 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 had not yet been crash-tested, but the previous GLC received top scores from both the NHTSA and IIHS. Standard safety features included forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, a blind-spot monitor, adaptive headlights, and a driver attention monitor. The optional Driver Assistance package added adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, evasive steering assist, and emergency stop assist. The GLC Coupe came standard with cross-traffic alerts and a surround-view camera, with the same Driver Assistance package as the new GLC.