2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2022 Toyota RAV4

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, a far cry from its 1996 debut as a compact alternative to large SUVs, had evolved into a mature crossover SUV by 2022. Initially embraced by young buyers, the RAV4's five generations saw it grow in size and sophistication, becoming a sales leader in the U.S. market. The 2022 model, part of a 2019 redesign, featured angular wheel arches, crisp lines, and expressive headlights, giving it a playful yet aggressive look. Inside, the RAV4 boasted a layered dash with contrasting textures and colors, a well-placed touchscreen interface, and distinctive design cues like a circuit-board-inspired geometric pattern.

In contrast, the 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, available in Touring L, Limited, and Pinnacle trims, offered a more practical choice for families. The mid-trim Limited with the S Appearance Package featured body-colored door handles, gloss black grille accents, and 18-inch wheels. The split grille and LED headlamps added a touch of sophistication. Inside, the Limited trim's dark interior was offset by handsome Nappa leather seats and a few sweeping lines on the dash. However, the proximity of the HVAC and audio knobs to the transmission selector dial could be confusing.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered three powertrains. The gasoline-only model featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available. Fuel economy for FWD models ranged from 27-28 mpg city to 35 mpg highway, while AWD models achieved 25-27 mpg city and 32-34 mpg highway. The RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter engine with an electric motor for 217 net hp and an EPA rating of 41 mpg city/38 mpg highway. The RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid, with 302 hp and a larger battery, offered 40 mpg city/36 mpg highway and 42 miles of electric-only range.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid combined a 3.6-liter V6 engine with a 16-kWh battery and two electric motors, offering 32 miles of all-electric range, 520 miles of total range, and 82 MPGe. In testing, it achieved 33 miles of electric range and over 550 miles of total range. Charging the battery took two hours on a Level 2 charger. The Pacifica defaulted to all-electric mode first, which was efficient in city driving but less so on the highway. The hybrid model, with 260 hp and 230 pound-feet of torque, was FWD only and lacked a spare tire and towing package.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, classified as a small SUV, offered 37.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expanding to 69.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. It had a payload capacity of 1,050-1,230 pounds and could tow up to 3,500 pounds in Adventure and TRD Off-Road models. Inside, the RAV4 was roomy and comfortable for four, with ample storage options and a spacious front row.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured the FamCam interior camera, heated and cooled front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The second-row seats were comfortable but low, and the third row offered enough space for adults. The Pacifica's cargo space was 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.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, six-speaker audio, and compatibility with Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and Apple CarPlay. Higher trims featured a 9-inch touchscreen, an 11-speaker JBL audio system, and navigation. The RAV4 Prime added five USB ports, two 12-volt outlets, an available 120-volt outlet, and a Qi-compatible wireless charging pad.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen with Uconnect 5, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The optional rear seat entertainment system added two 10-inch screens for second-row passengers, with games and streaming options. The Pacifica also had numerous USB-A and USB-C ports, 12-volt outlets, a 115-volt outlet, and wireless charging.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 included Toyota’s Star Safety System, with features like enhanced vehicle stability control, traction control, and anti-lock braking. It also had eight airbags, LATCH child-seat anchors, and Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which included adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and automatic high beams. The RAV4 was an IIHS Top Safety Pick and received a five-star rating from NHTSA.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid came with standard safety features like blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. However, features like parallel parking assist were optional. The 2022 Pacifica Hybrid received a five-star rating from NHTSA and Good marks from IIHS, except for Marginal grades for seat belt reminders and Average grades for headlights and LATCH ease of use.