2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2023 Volvo XC90

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was a minivan that didn't shy away from its identity. Despite the stigma some associated with minivans, it offered practical features like sliding side doors, which made loading children in tight parking spaces a breeze. The Pacifica Hybrid wasn't a visual standout, even with the S Appearance Package, and its price tag was steep, starting at $49,095 for the base Touring L and climbing to $57,645 for the Pinnacle version. The interior, while nice with black Nappa premium leather, felt somewhat dated compared to more modern designs.

In contrast, the 2023 Volvo XC90 showcased how far Volvo had come from its boxy past. The XC90's design was purposeful yet understated, with a solid front end and the distinctive "Thor’s Hammer" headlights adding a modern touch. The test vehicle, an AWD Ultimate trim, featured 21-inch wheels and a Platinum Gray paint that added depth and richness. Inside, the XC90 exuded elegance with two-tone leather, metal Bowers and Wilkins speaker covers, and luxurious Nappa leather upholstery. The minimalist design, accented with wood deco inlays, created a clean and sophisticated cabin environment.

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 16-kWh battery pack 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 nearly imperceptible, and the regenerative braking system helped recharge the battery. During testing, the Pacifica Hybrid achieved an average fuel economy of 37.1 mpg. However, the driving experience was lackluster, with light and uncommunicative steering, unremarkable regenerative brakes, and a generally dull driving dynamic.

For 2023, Volvo introduced the B5 and B6 engines in the XC90, both featuring mild-hybrid technology. The B5 engine produced 247 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, while the B6 engine, which was in the test vehicle, delivered 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. The mild-hybrid system improved fuel efficiency slightly and provided smoother operation. The XC90 offered a pleasant driving experience with quick acceleration, a responsive eight-speed automatic transmission, and excellent brakes. The mild-hybrid system's auto stop-start technology was almost imperceptible, enhancing the overall driving experience.

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 numerous storage options. The second-row seats were more comfortable than the standard Stow n’ Go chairs, and the third-row seat provided reasonable comfort for adults. With the third-row seats folded, the Pacifica Hybrid offered 87.5 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 140.5 cubic feet with the second-row seats removed.

The 2023 Volvo XC90's interior was elegant but had some space and storage limitations. The front seats were comfortable, but the lack of dedicated storage for smaller items was frustrating. The second row was reasonably spacious, but accessing the third row was challenging, especially with the standard bench seat. The XC90 offered 12.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the third row in use, expanding to 41.8 cubic feet with the third row folded and 65.5 cubic feet with all rear seats folded. This was less than some competitors in its class.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen display. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa compatibility, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The system allowed for five user profiles and included features like FamCam 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 Volvo XC90's tech was centered around a 9-inch touchscreen running Google OS, integrating Google Maps, Spotify, NPR, and Google Assistant. The system's natural-language recognition was excellent, and commands could be issued via Google Home devices. However, the reliance on the touchscreen for many functions could be frustrating, and more physical buttons would have been appreciated. Despite this, the tech suite was impressive and added to the XC90's appeal.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including a rear-seat reminder system. It earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. However, the adaptive cruise control needed refinement, particularly in recognizing lane departures and moderating speed in traffic.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 continued Volvo's legacy of safety, earning a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. It featured advanced driver safety tech, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The Pilot Assist technology helped maintain distance and lane position, making it a standout in safety features.