2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, despite being a minivan, offered practical advantages that many three-row midsize crossover SUVs couldn't match. Its sliding side doors made loading children in tight parking spaces a breeze, and its plug-in hybrid status was unique among mainstream brands. However, its rounded, flowing exterior and interior styling appeared soft and dated compared to the more modern, architectural designs of competitors. The Pacifica Hybrid wasn't cheap, with the base Touring L starting at $49,095 and the Limited trim costing $54,095. Our test vehicle, with additional features, brought the MSRP to $57,680, even after factoring in a $7,500 federal tax credit.

In contrast, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE received a subtle exterior makeover that was hard to notice at first glance. The GLE 450e we tested featured a handsome Twilight Blue metallic finish and sleek 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, which added a touch of elegance. The interior of our GLE 450e tester exuded class and luxury, with Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery combined with natural grain brown walnut trim. Mercedes offered a wide range of customization options, including 10 interior color choices and five trims, making the GLE's cabin one of the highest quality and most robust-looking in its segment.

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 Pacifica Hybrid 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. During our Los Angeles driving loop, we achieved an average fuel economy of 37.1 mpg. However, the Pacifica Hybrid's driving experience was unremarkable, with light and uncommunicative steering, grabby brakes, and a lack of cornering grip.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, including turbocharged four- and six-cylinder engines and a twin-turbo V8 producing 603 horsepower in the AMG GLE 63 S. Our GLE 450e tester featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 381 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. The GLE 450e could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds and had an estimated electric-only driving range of 40 miles. The transition between gas and electric power was seamless, and the suspension provided a smooth and comfortable ride. The GLE 450e's sophisticated steering made it feel maneuverable despite its size, and the overall performance exceeded expectations.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, offering three comfortable rows of seats and ample cargo space. The interior featured quality leather upholstery, triple-zone automatic climate control, and various storage solutions. The second-row seats were more comfortable than the standard Pacifica's Stow n' Go chairs, but they couldn't collapse into the floor, requiring 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 140.5 cubic feet with the second-row seats removed.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE provided ample space for adults in both the first and second rows, with a light and airy cabin feel. The GLE 450e offered 33 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, comparable to rivals like the BMW X5. While the GLE could be equipped with an optional third-row seat, it was only suitable for young children. The GLE 450e came with numerous comfort features, including power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a power liftgate. Our test vehicle also included options like massaging front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and heated rear seats, enhancing the overall comfort and luxury.

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 features like FamCam, a rear-seat entertainment system, and a 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. However, the voice recognition technology was hit-and-miss, and the sound quality required adjustment for optimal performance.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE boasted the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch screens serving as the digital instrument panel and main infotainment screen. The system was feature-rich, with a learning curve, but offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, an improved "Hey Mercedes" voice command system, and augmented reality navigation. The head-up display and augmented reality navigation were particularly impressive, though the touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel could be overly sensitive.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid came with a comprehensive package of standard driver-assist and collision-avoidance features, including a rear-seat reminder system. However, 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 GLE offered a comprehensive lineup of active safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, and pedestrian detection. Our GLE 450e tester included the optional Driver Assistance package, adding active blind-spot assist, active lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and traffic sign recognition. These features were unobtrusive during everyday driving and provided an extra layer of safety.