2022 Jeep Wrangler vs 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler offered a choice between the classic two-door and the more practical four-door model. Buyers could select from a variety of powertrains, including a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, gasoline V6, turbodiesel V6, gas V8, or a plug-in hybrid. The Wrangler came in four core trim levels: Sport, Sport S, Sahara, and Rubicon, with numerous special editions like the High Tide model, which featured a 1.5-inch suspension lift and 35-inch tires. The interior was basic, with durable cloth upholstery and a driving position close to the steering wheel, dashboard, and windshield. Despite its rugged charm, the Wrangler's interior was not plush, and its raised suspension made entry and exit challenging.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was available in Touring L, Limited, and Pinnacle trims, with our test vehicle being the mid-trim Limited with the S Appearance Package. This package added body-colored door handles and exterior mirrors, along with black accents and 18-inch wheels. The Pacifica Hybrid's interior was dark but sophisticated, with Nappa leather seats and a well-designed dashboard. The minivan offered practical features like sliding doors and ample cargo space, although the plug-in hybrid model lacked some features available in the gasoline-only version, such as all-wheel drive and a towing package.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide was equipped with a 3.6-liter V6 engine with eTorque mild-hybrid electrification, producing 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. It featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and Selec-Trac full-time 4WD. The EPA estimated 21 mpg in combined driving, but real-world testing showed an average of 16.8 mpg. The Wrangler was known for its unique driving experience, characterized by a rough ride, loud cabin, and frequent fuel stops. Despite these traits, it offered an immersive and adventurous driving experience, especially with the top and doors removed.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid combined a 3.6-liter V6 engine with a 16-kWh battery and two electric motors, offering 260 horsepower and 230 pound-feet of torque. It was the only minivan available as a plug-in hybrid, with an EPA rating of 32 miles of all-electric range and 82 MPGe. Real-world testing showed slightly better numbers, with 33 miles of electric range and over 550 miles of total range. The Pacifica Hybrid's driving experience was smooth, with a continuously variable automatic transmission and a lower center of gravity for better handling. However, it defaulted to all-electric mode first, which could be less efficient for highway driving.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler's raised suspension made entry and exit difficult, especially for shorter individuals. The interior featured durable cloth upholstery and a close driving position. Visibility was mixed, with some areas requiring leaning forward to see traffic lights. Rear-seat passengers faced similar entry challenges but enjoyed good views and amenities like air conditioning vents and cupholders. Cargo space was limited, with 31.7 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 72.4 cubic feet with the seat folded.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid offered a spacious interior with features like the FamCam interior camera for monitoring rear passengers. The front seats were heated and cooled, with a comfortable driver's seat and adjustable armrest. The second-row seats were comfortable but low, while the third row provided enough space for adults. The Pacifica Hybrid lacked the Stow 'n Go seats due to the battery placement but still offered 32.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 140.5 cubic feet with all seats folded.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide featured a basic infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Optional upgrades included a larger 8.4-inch touchscreen with satellite radio and a premium sound system. The Wrangler also offered remote engine starting, satellite radio, and a passive keyless entry system. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were part of the Cold Weather Group.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid came with a 10.1-inch touchscreen running Uconnect 5, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa compatibility, and the ability to connect two phones via Bluetooth. The optional rear seat entertainment system added two 10-inch screens for second-row passengers, with games and streaming content from Amazon Fire TV. The Pacifica Hybrid also featured numerous USB ports, 12-volt outlets, and wireless charging.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide included the Safety Group and Advanced Safety Group, offering features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and forward-collision warning. However, the Wrangler's safety ratings were mediocre, with a three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA and Marginal ratings from the IIHS.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The 2022 version received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and Good marks from the IIHS, except for Marginal grades for seat belt reminders and Average grades for headlights.