2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2022 Hyundai Kona

The 2022 Hyundai Kona received a significant makeover, enhancing its overall sophistication. The vehicle was 1.6 inches longer than its predecessor, featuring revised front and rear fascias, enhanced LED lighting, and sporty new character lines. The addition of new alloy wheel designs further refined its exterior. Inside, the Kona's instrument panel and center console were separated to create a more spacious look, complemented by new ambient lighting and a rear USB port for added convenience. The introduction of the sporty N Line and Kona N trims brought unique styling elements, such as body-color cladding and exclusive interior features, elevating the Kona's athletic appeal.

In contrast, the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was a practical minivan with a focus on utility rather than aesthetics. Despite its rounded, flowing exterior and interior styling, which some found dated, the Pacifica Hybrid offered a unique plug-in hybrid option in the minivan segment. The Limited-trim test vehicle, equipped with the S Appearance Package and Uconnect Theater rear-seat entertainment system, had a high MSRP, even after accounting for federal tax credits. The interior featured quality black Nappa leather, but the overall design did not attempt to disguise its minivan identity. The Pacifica Hybrid was a practical choice for those prioritizing efficiency and utility over style.

The 2022 Hyundai Kona offered a diverse range of powertrains, catering to different performance preferences. The base SE and SEL trims featured a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 147 horsepower, paired with a CVT. For those seeking more power, the N Line and Limited trims boasted a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine delivering 195 horsepower. The standout Kona N trim featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine with 276 horsepower, paired with an N eight-speed wet DCT. This setup included exclusive driving features like N Grin Shift and launch control, enhancing the Kona's sporty driving experience. The Kona N Line test vehicle, with its 1.6-liter turbo engine and AWD, provided ample power and agility, making it enjoyable to drive in various settings.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, on the other hand, was powered by a plug-in hybrid drivetrain based on a 3.6-liter V6 engine paired with a dual-motor electric drive system. This setup produced a total of 260 horsepower, with immediate torque from the electric drive system. 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 seamless, and the regenerative braking system helped recharge the battery. Despite its efficiency, the Pacifica Hybrid's driving experience was described as dull, with light steering and unremarkable regenerative brakes. However, its powertrain was praised for its brilliance and efficiency.

The 2022 Hyundai Kona, while compact, offered a comfortable front-seat experience with ample headroom and legroom. The N Line's front seats provided excellent support during spirited driving. However, rear-seat occupants faced challenges with limited headroom and legroom, and the small rear door openings made entry and exit cumbersome. Cargo space was tight, with 19.2 cubic feet available with all seats up, expanding to 45.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Towing was not recommended for the Kona.

In contrast, the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, offering three rows of comfortable seating and ample cargo space. The interior featured triple-zone climate control, quality leather upholstery, and heated and ventilated front seats. Storage options were abundant, with various bins and trays throughout the cabin. The second-row seats were more comfortable than the standard Pacifica's Stow n’ Go seats, though they required removal to maximize 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. Removing the second-row seats provided a massive 140.5 cubic feet of cargo space.

The 2022 Hyundai Kona came equipped with a range of tech features, starting with an 8-inch display on the base SE trim. The SEL trim added SiriusXM satellite radio and Hyundai Blue Link, while the Limited and Kona N offered a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay were standard with the base screen, while the larger screen required wired connections. The Kona also featured a digital instrument cluster, wireless device charging, and Hyundai Blue Link services.

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, SiriusXM satellite radio, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The system allowed for multiple user profiles and included a FamCam overhead camera system for monitoring rear passengers. The Pacifica Hybrid also offered a 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system and an available rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV. However, the voice recognition technology was inconsistent, and the sound quality required adjustment for optimal performance.

The 2022 Hyundai Kona offered a basic suite of driver aids, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, and rear occupant alert. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and blind-spot warning. The Kona received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and "Good" ratings in all IIHS crashworthiness tests. However, its child-seat anchors received a "Marginal" rating, preventing it from achieving Top Safety Pick status.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted a comprehensive package 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 Hybrid 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.