2023 Volvo XC40 vs 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

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, however, was not its strong suit, as it appeared somewhat dated and soft compared to more modern, angular vehicles. The interior, though comfortable with quality leather, didn't attempt to disguise its minivan nature, unlike some competitors.

In contrast, the 2023 Volvo XC40 maintained its distinctive, flat-roofed SUV profile, aligning with Volvo's clean design language. The 2023 updates included subtle changes like pixelated "Thor’s Hammer" headlights and a more angular front bumper, which were not immediately noticeable but added to its modern appeal. The XC40 shared its platform with other Volvo and Polestar models, making it unique in offering a combustion engine option. Inside, the minimalist design featured attractive elements like thin air vents and scalloped door handles, with options for leather or vegan leather upholstery. The XC40 Ultimate test vehicle included premium features like a panoramic moonroof and crystal shift knob, though the all-black interior felt somewhat utilitarian.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in its role as an efficient people mover, powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine paired with a dual-motor electric drive system, delivering a total of 260 horsepower. The plug-in hybrid system allowed for up to 32 miles of electric-only driving, making it ideal for short commutes and errands. The transition between electric and gasoline power was seamless, and the regenerative braking system contributed to an impressive average fuel economy of 37.1 mpg during testing. However, the driving experience was described as uninspiring, with light steering, unremarkable brakes, and limited cornering grip, making it feel more like an appliance than a dynamic vehicle.

The 2023 Volvo XC40 introduced mild-hybrid powertrains, featuring a 48-volt electrical system and a 13-horsepower integrated starter generator. The base B4 powertrain offered 197 hp, while the B5 model delivered 247 hp, both paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The B5 AWD model accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds, providing a reasonably quick and smooth driving experience. The XC40's chassis tuning offered a refined ride, absorbing bumps with ease and handling corners with composure. The XC40 Recharge variant added more power with 402 hp and 486 lb-ft of torque, achieving a 0-60 mph time of 4.7 seconds and a 223-mile range, while also offering superior towing capacity.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, offering three comfortable rows of seats and ample cargo space. It featured triple-zone climate control, quality leather upholstery, and heated and ventilated front seats. Storage solutions were abundant, with extra shelves, a large floor tray, and a long storage bin accessible from the second row. 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 Volvo XC40, while compact, offered reasonable space for its class. It provided ample rear-seat headroom and average legroom, with generous shoulder room enhancing the sense of spaciousness. Cargo space measured 20 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 46.9 cubic feet with them folded, less than some competitors. The XC40 featured good interior storage, with scalloped door panels creating flexible storage options and a large center console bin. A power tailgate and keyless entry were standard on higher trims, adding to its practicality.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, offering a user-friendly interface, customizable profiles, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It included features like FamCam, a rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV, and a 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. However, the voice recognition technology was inconsistent, and the sound system required adjustments for optimal performance. The Pacifica also offered a surround-view camera system and parking assist, though the latter was deemed less effective than manual parking skills.

The 2023 Volvo XC40 adopted an Android-based infotainment system, integrating Google apps for navigation and voice recognition. It featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 9-inch touchscreen, with a 13-speaker Harman Kardon audio system in the Ultimate trim. The system's graphics were pleasing, but the lack of analog controls meant relying on the touchscreen for most functions, which could be cumbersome. Apple CarPlay and basic Bluetooth support were included, catering to users with different smartphone preferences.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including a rear-seat reminder system. It offered adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and lane-keeping assist, though the adaptive cruise control required refinement. 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 Volvo XC40 emphasized safety with standard features like lane keep assist, automatic emergency braking, and blind spot monitoring. Higher trims added front and side parking sensors, a 360-degree camera system, and Pilot Assist for highway driving. The XC40 received top ratings in most IIHS crash tests, though it dropped to "Acceptable" in the updated side-impact test. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall safety rating, with a four-star rollover rating.