2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2022 Subaru Ascent

The 2022 Subaru Ascent introduced a new Onyx Edition trim level, which featured a trendy blacked-out exterior. This trim level sat in the middle of the Ascent lineup, offering a sporty appearance with black 20-inch aluminum wheels, unique grille design, and special interior trim. The Onyx Edition was priced at $37,995, excluding destination fees, and offered an optional package for an additional $2,000 that included a panoramic moonroof, navigation system, and cargo cover. The interior featured a gray two-tone StarTex synthetic leather upholstery, which was water-repellant but tended to trap sweat, making ventilated seats a desirable option that was only available on the Touring trim.

In contrast, the 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, particularly in the mid-trim Limited with the S Appearance Package, offered a sleek look with body-colored door handles, gloss black grille surround, and 18-inch wheels with a "Foreshadow" finish. The Pacifica Hybrid was a practical choice for families, with its sliding doors and ample cargo space. The interior was dark, with Nappa leather seats and a sophisticated dashboard design. However, the proximity of the HVAC and audio knobs to the transmission selector dial could cause confusion. The Pacifica Hybrid's interior was comfortable, though taller passengers might find the second-row seats a bit low.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. It featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and standard all-wheel drive (AWD). The Ascent achieved an EPA fuel-economy rating of 22 mpg combined, though testing showed an average of 20.5 mpg. The engine's flat-four layout contributed to a lower center of gravity, enhancing handling. The CVT offered eight programmed ratios and manual shift control, allowing for brisk acceleration and commendable passing power. The Ascent could tow up to 5,000 pounds and included Subaru’s X-Mode off-road traction control system, hill descent control, and 8.7 inches of ground clearance for off-roading capability.

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. Testing showed slightly better numbers, with 33 miles of electric range and over 550 miles of total range. The Pacifica Hybrid defaulted to all-electric mode before switching to hybrid mode, which was efficient in city driving but less so on highways. The Pacifica Hybrid was front-wheel drive only and lacked a spare tire and towing package, which were available on gasoline-only models.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent could accommodate up to eight passengers, though the third row was best suited for children. The Ascent Onyx Edition was equipped for winter weather with water-resistant seat material, triple-zone climate control, heated front seats, heated side mirrors, and a wiper de-icer. The second-row seats were easily accessible, and captain’s chairs were available. The Ascent offered 17.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 47.5 cubic feet behind the second row, and 86.5 cubic feet with both rows folded down.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured the FamCam interior camera, allowing parents to monitor children in the second and third rows. The interior included heated and cooled front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a comfortable driver’s seat. The second-row seats were comfortable but low, and the third row offered enough space for adults. The Pacifica Hybrid did not have Stow ‘n Go seats due to the battery placement, but it offered 32.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 87.5 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 140.5 cubic feet with all seats folded.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent came with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, HD Radio, and satellite radio. The Premium trim added an 8-inch display with Starlink connected services, including a WiFi hotspot and remote engine starting. The system’s voice recognition technology needed improvement, and the Onyx Edition used standard stereo speakers, lacking the optional Harman Kardon premium sound system available on higher trims.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen with Uconnect 5, offering wireless Apple CarPlay, 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 capabilities. The Pacifica Hybrid included numerous USB-A and USB-C ports, 12-volt outlets, a 115-volt outlet, auxiliary ports, and wireless charging.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent received a "Top Safety Pick+" award from the IIHS and five-star crash-test ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rating in rollover resistance. It came standard with Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assistance tech, including adaptive cruise control and lane-centering technology. However, EyeSight’s performance was affected by direct sunlight, and the adaptive cruise control and lane-centering technology lacked refinement. Additional safety features included steering responsive LED headlights and optional blind-spot monitoring.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid included 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, rear parking assist, and adaptive cruise control. The 2022 version 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.