2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe, particularly the AMG GLE 53 variant, presented a design that was neither offensive nor groundbreaking. Its Selenite Gray paint, 22-inch forged aluminum wheels, and polished brightwork gave it a sleek appearance, reminiscent of an athletic sneaker from certain angles. Despite the absence of the V8-powered AMG GLE 63 S Coupe, the GLE 53 Coupe still offered a luxurious interior with high-end materials like Nappa premium leather and brushed aluminum trim. The dual-screen setup for instrumentation and infotainment added a modern touch, though the lack of traditional controls required some acclimation for new users.

In contrast, the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid embraced its minivan identity without attempting to disguise it as something else. While not a head-turner, even with the S Appearance Package, it offered practicality and efficiency. The Pacifica Hybrid Limited trim, with its black Nappa leather and flowing design, felt somewhat dated compared to more modern, angular designs. However, it excelled in functionality, providing a spacious and comfortable interior for families. The plug-in hybrid system allowed for electric-only driving, making it an efficient choice for short commutes and errands.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE 53 Coupe was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, delivering 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque. The EQ Boost 48-volt mild-hybrid system added extra power when needed and helped conserve fuel, achieving an EPA-rated 19 mpg in combined driving. The AMG GLE 53 Coupe featured a SpeedShift nine-speed automatic transmission and an AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system, offering various driving modes like Comfort, Sport, and Sport+. The AMG Active Ride Control suspension and performance brakes enhanced its driving dynamics, making it nimble and composed in urban and suburban settings. However, its size and weight were noticeable on winding roads, and the performance exhaust system was quite loud in Sport+ mode.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid combined a 3.6-liter V6 engine with a dual-motor electric drive system, producing a total of 260 horsepower. The plug-in hybrid system allowed for up to 32 miles of electric-only driving, making it ideal for daily commutes and errands. The regenerative braking system helped recharge the battery, and the transition between electric and gasoline power was seamless. On a Los Angeles driving loop, the Pacifica Hybrid achieved an average fuel economy of 37.1 mpg. While the driving experience was not particularly exciting, the Pacifica Hybrid excelled in efficiency and practicality, offering a smooth ride and impressive powertrain performance.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe offered seating for up to five people, though it was more comfortable for four adults. The sport-bolstered front seats provided comfort and support, with numerous adjustments and features like heating, ventilation, and massage. The back seat offered ample legroom, and the cargo area provided 27.5 cubic feet of space, expandable to 63.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Additional comfort features included a four-zone climate control system and an Air Balance in-cabin fragrance system.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, offering three rows of comfortable seating and ample cargo space. The Pacifica Hybrid Limited featured triple-zone climate control, quality leather upholstery, and heated and ventilated front seats. Storage options were plentiful, 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 for maximum cargo space. The third-row seat was comfortable for two adults or three children, and the cargo area offered 32.3 cubic feet of space, expandable to 87.5 cubic feet with the third-row seats folded.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe came equipped with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring dual 12.3-inch screens for the digital instrument cluster and touchscreen. Standard features included navigation, satellite radio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Burmester surround-sound audio system. The MBUX system was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition technology and multiple interaction methods. Optional features included gesture recognition, augmented video for navigation, and a head-up display.

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 five user profiles and simultaneous Bluetooth pairing for two devices. The available FamCam overhead camera system was a useful feature for parents. The Pacifica Hybrid also offered a 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system and an Amazon Fire TV rear-seat entertainment system, though the latter was less necessary for tech-savvy passengers with their own devices.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe was equipped with numerous safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Pre Safe Sound system emitted a "pink noise" tone to protect hearing during a collision. The optional Driver Assistance Package added 15 additional safety systems, including Traffic Jam Assist and Active Lane Change Assist. While crash-test results for the GLE Coupe were unavailable, the standard GLE received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including a rear-seat reminder system. While adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assist was not available, the Pacifica Hybrid offered adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and lane-keeping assist. The Pacifica Hybrid earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, though its frontal-impact protection received four stars.