2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2023 Volvo XC60

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, despite its minivan stigma, offered practical advantages over three-row midsize crossover SUVs. 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 design appeared soft and dated, and even with the S Appearance Package, it wasn't a head-turner. The interior, while nice with black Nappa premium leather, didn't hide its minivan identity, which could be a dealbreaker for some.

In contrast, the 2023 Volvo XC60 exuded style and design leadership, aging gracefully with its classic Scandinavian minimalism. The test vehicle, in Recharge spec with the Ultimate package and Dark exterior theme, looked terrific with its 20-inch wheels and Thunder Grey paint. Inside, the black leather, wood trim, metal accents, and Orrefors crystal gear selector knob created an opulent atmosphere. The XC60's interior was a snug fit but comfortable, with a large panoramic sunroof adding to the sense of space.

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. 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 driving experience was dull, with light and uncommunicative steering, unremarkable regenerative brakes, and a lack of cornering grip.

The 2023 Volvo XC60 Recharge, with its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and electric motor, produced a combined 455 horsepower and 423 pound-feet of torque. It could tow up to 3,500 pounds and offered several driving modes, including Hybrid, Power, Pure, Off-road, and Constant AWD. The XC60 was exceptionally quick, reaching 60 mph in 4.5 seconds. In Pure mode, it provided an estimated 35 miles of electric driving range. The driving experience varied with the mode selected, with Power mode enhancing responsiveness and handling. The XC60 averaged 54.6 mpg on a 65-mile evaluation route, showcasing its efficiency.

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. The interior featured triple-zone automatic climate control, quality leather upholstery, and ample storage options. 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 cargo area provided 32.3 cubic feet of space, expandable to 87.5 cubic feet with the third-row seats folded.

The 2023 Volvo XC60, a compact crossover SUV, was best for carrying four people comfortably, though it could accommodate five. The front seats, wrapped in Nappa leather, offered outstanding comfort with heating, ventilation, and power cushion extensions. The back seats were also comfortable but had limited legroom. Storage space was decent, with practical spots for smaller items and 25.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the back seat, expandable to 63.3 cubic feet with the seats folded. The XC60 also featured a ski pass-through panel and optional air suspension for easier loading.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid came with the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, featuring a 10.1-inch touchscreen display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The system allowed for five user profiles and included a FamCam overhead camera system for monitoring rear-seat passengers. The voice recognition technology was hit-and-miss, and the 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system required adjustments 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 Volvo XC60 featured a 12-inch digital instrumentation panel and a Google Built-in infotainment system with a 9-inch touchscreen. The system included Google Assistant, Google Maps, Google Play, and support for Apple CarPlay. The voice-recognition system was impressive, accurately responding to various commands. The optional Bowers & Wilkins sound system provided exceptional audio quality, though it was expensive. The infotainment system's interface was intuitive, and climate system functions could be operated by voice.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted a comprehensive package of standard driver-assist and collision-avoidance features, including a rear-seat reminder system. However, its adaptive cruise control needed refinement, particularly in recognizing departing vehicles and moderating speed when other motorists 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 Volvo XC60, synonymous with safety, came with Pilot Assist, combining adaptive cruise control with lane-centering capability. Pilot Assist performed smoothly and accurately on multi-lane freeways, successfully ignoring freeway off-ramps and on-ramps. The XC60 also featured Oncoming Lane Mitigation to avoid collisions with oncoming vehicles. The XC60 B5 and B6 mild-hybrids earned top safety ratings from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS for the 2022 calendar year.