2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2022 Mazda CX-5

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 underwent subtle yet significant exterior updates, including new LED headlights and taillights, redesigned bumpers, a revised grille, and a fresh rear liftgate. These changes aimed to enhance the vehicle's premium appeal, especially in the top-tier Signature trim, which featured body-color lower exterior trim. Inside, the CX-5 retained its luxurious feel with premium Nappa leather upholstery, real wood trim, and polished metallic accents. The new seats provided improved comfort, addressing previous complaints about the seating. However, the introduction of a new trim lineup, including the CX-5 2.5 S and 2.5 Turbo, added some complexity to the purchasing decision.

In contrast, the 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, particularly in the mid-trim Limited with the S Appearance Package, offered a sleek exterior with body-colored door handles, gloss black accents, and 18-inch wheels. The minivan's practicality was evident with its sliding doors and ample cargo space, making it a sensible choice for families. The interior, while predominantly dark in the Limited trim, featured Nappa leather seats and a sophisticated dashboard design. However, the proximity of the HVAC and audio knobs to the transmission selector dial could lead to confusion. The Pacifica Hybrid's interior was comfortable, though taller passengers might find the second-row seats a bit low.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options: the 2.5 S with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, and the 2.5 Turbo, which delivered 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque on premium gas. Both engines came with a revised six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The CX-5 2.5 S achieved an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in combined driving, while the 2.5 Turbo returned 24 mpg. The vehicle's improved structural rigidity and suspension tuning provided a quieter, smoother ride with enhanced driving dynamics, making it a compelling alternative to entry-level luxury SUVs.

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, 520 miles of total range, 82 MPGe, and 30 mpg combined fuel economy. In testing, the Pacifica Hybrid exceeded these estimates, achieving 33 miles of electric range and over 550 miles of total range. However, the vehicle defaulted to all-electric mode first, which could deplete the battery quickly on highways. The Pacifica Hybrid was front-wheel drive only and lacked a spare tire and towing package, unlike its gasoline-only counterpart.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 addressed previous complaints about its ride and seating with new, supportive seats and a sportier driving position. The interior featured dual-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. However, the back seat remained snug, and the control layout, particularly the Mazda Connect infotainment system, was a source of frustration. Cargo space was adequate, with 30.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 59.3 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid offered family-friendly features like the FamCam interior camera, heated and cooled front seats, and a spacious third row. However, the second-row seats were a bit low for taller passengers. The Pacifica Hybrid's cargo space was generous, with 32.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 87.5 cubic feet with the seats folded, and 140.5 cubic feet with all seats down. However, the plug-in hybrid model lacked the Stow 'n Go seats, built-in vacuum cleaner, and heated second-row seats available in the standard Pacifica.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 retained its Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 10.25-inch display, which was not touch-sensitive. The system lacked natural voice recognition, requiring users to rely on center console and steering wheel controls. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with a three-year trial of Mazda Connected Services. Starting with the 2.5 S Premium trim, a 10-speaker Bose premium sound system was included, offering satisfactory audio quality.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen with Uconnect 5, praised for its ease of use and crisp graphics. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The optional rear seat entertainment system added two 10-inch screens for second-row passengers, though its value was questionable given the prevalence of personal devices. The Pacifica Hybrid offered numerous charging options, including USB-A and USB-C ports, 12-volt outlets, a 115-volt outlet, and wireless charging.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 came with a comprehensive i-Activsense package, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims added features like adaptive headlights, a surround-view camera system, and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid offered standard safety features such as blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, pedestrian automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. However, features like parallel parking assist required additional packages. The 2022 Pacifica received a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA and Good marks from the IIHS, except for Marginal grades for seat belt reminders and Average grades for headlights and LATCH ease of use.