2022 Nissan Armada vs 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

The 2022 Nissan Armada was a large and imposing SUV, with its roots tracing back to the Pathfinder Armada of 2004. Sharing its lineage with the Nissan Titan pickup and the international Nissan Patrol SUV, the Armada was produced in Mississippi before moving to Japan in its second generation. This generation, still in production, was closely related to the Infiniti QX80 luxury SUV. The Armada's dimensions were substantial, measuring 208.9 inches in length, 75.8 inches in height, and 79.9 inches in width, with a ground clearance of 9.1-9.2 inches. Its exterior boasted sculptural details, standard LED lighting, and a tasteful amount of chrome, with wheel options ranging from 18 to 22 inches, adding to its luxurious appearance.

In contrast, the 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid offered a more practical and family-friendly design. Available in Touring L, Limited, and Pinnacle trims, the Pacifica Hybrid featured a sleek exterior with a split grille and LED headlamps. The Limited trim, with the S Appearance Package, added body-colored accents and 18-inch wheels. While minivans like the Pacifica Hybrid lacked the rugged appeal of SUVs, they excelled in practicality, offering sliding doors and ample cargo space. The interior was dark but sophisticated, with Nappa leather seats and a user-friendly dashboard. The Pacifica Hybrid's design prioritized functionality, making it a sensible choice for families.

The 2022 Nissan Armada was powered by a robust 5.6-liter V8 engine, delivering 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission, offered both rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive options. Despite its hefty weight of 5,650 to 6,034 pounds, the Armada could tow up to 8,500 pounds and carry up to eight passengers. Its fuel economy was modest, with RWD models achieving 14 mpg city and 19 mpg highway, while 4WD versions slightly lower. The Armada's ride was smooth, thanks to its four-wheel independent suspension, and it handled well on various terrains, though it was primarily tested on paved roads.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid combined a 3.6-liter V6 engine with a 16-kWh battery and two electric motors, making it the only plug-in hybrid minivan available. It offered an EPA-rated 32 miles of all-electric range and 520 miles of total range, with an impressive 82 MPGe and 30 mpg combined. In real-world testing, the Pacifica Hybrid exceeded these numbers, achieving 33 miles of electric range and over 550 miles of total range. Charging the battery took just two hours on a Level 2 charger. However, the Pacifica Hybrid's electric power delivery was less flexible, defaulting to all-electric mode first, which could be less efficient for highway commutes. The Pacifica Hybrid was front-wheel drive only and lacked towing capabilities, but it provided a comfortable driving experience with 260 horsepower and a smooth continuously variable transmission.

The 2022 Nissan Armada's spacious interior was designed to accommodate seven to eight passengers comfortably. The first row featured power-adjustable bucket seats, while the second row offered a choice between a bench seat or captain's chairs. The third row was roomy enough for three passengers and could be equipped with power folding and reclining functions. The Armada's cargo capacity was impressive, with up to 95.4 cubic feet of space available when the second and third rows were folded. The interior featured various storage options, including nine cupholders and four bottle holders, making it a versatile choice for families.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid offered a family-friendly interior with features like the FamCam interior camera, allowing parents to monitor rear-seat passengers. The front seats were heated and cooled, with a comfortable driver's seat and a soft center armrest. The second-row seats were comfortable but low, while the third row provided ample space for adults. The Pacifica Hybrid's cargo space was generous, with 32.3 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 140.5 cubic feet with all seats folded. However, the plug-in hybrid model lacked the Stow 'n Go seats and built-in vacuum cleaner found in the standard Pacifica.

The 2022 Nissan Armada came equipped with NissanConnect technology, featuring a 12.3-inch color touchscreen with customizable split-screen options. Standard tech features included a Wi-Fi hotspot, wireless device charging, navigation, and a rear-view monitor. The audio system varied by trim, with Bose audio available on higher trims. The Armada also offered wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto connectivity, along with a Family Entertainment System on Platinum models.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen running Uconnect 5, known for its user-friendly interface and crisp graphics. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa compatibility, and dual phone connectivity via Bluetooth. The optional rear seat entertainment system added two 10-inch screens for second-row passengers, with streaming capabilities and games. The Pacifica Hybrid offered numerous charging options, including USB-A and USB-C ports, 12-volt outlets, and wireless charging.

The 2022 Nissan Armada prioritized safety with a comprehensive suite of features, including Nissan Safety Shield 360, which offered high beam assist, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and more. Additional safety systems included adaptive cruise control, intelligent forward collision warning, and an available intelligent rear-view mirror. The Armada was equipped with multiple airbags and trailer sway control on higher trims. However, it had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted a range of standard safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The forward collision warning system provided both visual and audible alerts, while the adaptive cruise control offered smooth braking and acceleration. Some features, like parallel parking assist, required additional packages. The 2022 Pacifica Hybrid received a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA and Good marks from the IIHS, except for a few areas.