2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2022 Volvo XC90 represented a significant evolution from the brand's earlier boxy designs, maintaining its family-friendly and safety-oriented image while stepping into the luxury class. After Volvo's acquisition by China's Zhejiang Geely Holding in 2010, the company developed new platforms, leading to the current XC90, which launched in 2016 as the flagship SUV on the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform. The XC90's design was sleek and athletic, with a long roofline and pronounced wheel arches, complemented by the distinctive "Thor's Hammer" LED headlights. Inside, the XC90 offered a luxurious "Scandinavian Modern" interior with natural wood and metal trim, and options for Nappa leather or a tailored wool blend upholstery.

In contrast, the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was a minivan that embraced its identity, offering practicality and efficiency over style. Despite its minivan image, the Pacifica Hybrid was unique as a plug-in hybrid with a three-row seating capacity. The exterior design, even with the S Appearance Package, was not particularly striking, and the interior, while comfortable with premium leather, felt somewhat dated compared to more modern designs. The Pacifica Hybrid was priced starting at $49,095 for the base Touring L, with the Limited trim at $54,095, and the Pinnacle version at $57,645. Despite its higher cost, the Pacifica Hybrid offered a $7,500 federal income tax credit, making it a more attractive option for those seeking efficiency and practicality.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered a range of powertrains, starting with the T5 model's turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The T6 model added a supercharger, increasing output to 316 hp and 295 lb-ft. The T8 plug-in hybrid combined a supercharged/turbocharged engine with an electric motor, delivering a total of 455 hp and 523 lb-ft of torque. The T5 models were available in front-wheel drive (FWD) with optional all-wheel drive (AWD), while the T6 and T8 models were AWD only. The T8's electric motor powered the rear wheels, providing a smooth and spirited driving experience. The XC90's fuel efficiency varied, with the T8 offering 27 mpg combined on gas and 55 MPGe with an 18-mile EV range, while the extended range variant achieved 26 mpg combined and 66 MPGe with up to 36 miles of EV range.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured a plug-in hybrid drivetrain based on a 3.6-liter V6 engine paired with a dual-motor electric drive system, producing a total of 260 horsepower. The Pacifica Hybrid could travel up to 32 miles on electric power alone, making it ideal for short commutes and errands. The regenerative braking system helped recharge the battery, and the van achieved an average fuel economy of 37.1 mpg during testing. While the Pacifica Hybrid's driving dynamics were not particularly exciting, the powertrain was efficient and seamless, with the transition between electric and gasoline power nearly imperceptible. The Pacifica Hybrid lacked driving modes, simplifying the driving experience to just shifting into Drive and going.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered six-passenger and seven-passenger configurations, with easy access to the third row via a one-handed slide and fold of the second row. While the third row was suitable for children, adults would find it lacking in legroom and support. The XC90 provided 15.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 41.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and up to 85.7 cubic feet with both the second and third rows down. The XC90 could tow between 4,000 and 5,000 pounds, depending on the configuration. The interior was spacious and comfortable, with ample storage and a panoramic moonroof enhancing the airy feel.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, offering three comfortable rows of seats and significant cargo space. The Pacifica Hybrid Limited featured triple-zone climate control, quality leather upholstery, and ample storage options, including a large floor tray and multiple bins. The second-row seats were more comfortable than the standard Pacifica's Stow n’ Go seats, though they required removal to maximize cargo space. The third row was reasonably comfortable, with cupholders and USB ports. The Pacifica Hybrid provided 32.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 87.5 cubic feet with the third row folded, and up to 140.5 cubic feet with the second row removed.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a nine-inch touchscreen, offering smartphone-like gestures and compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system was occasionally glitchy, but the Apple CarPlay functionality improved its performance. The XC90 included a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, a head-up display, and a 360-degree camera system. The standard Harman Kardon sound system could be upgraded to a Bowers & Wilkins system for audiophiles. The XC90 also offered multiple USB ports, a WiFi hotspot, and the Volvo Care smartphone app for remote vehicle controls.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid came with the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, featuring a 10.1-inch touchscreen with appealing graphics and a user-friendly interface. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, Amazon Alexa, and connected services. The FamCam overhead camera system allowed parents to monitor rear-seat passengers. The Pacifica Hybrid's voice recognition was inconsistent, but the Harman Kardon sound system provided decent audio quality with some adjustments. The rear-seat entertainment system offered Amazon Fire TV, though personal devices were often preferred by passengers. The Pacifica Hybrid also included a surround-view camera system and parking assist features.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 continued the brand's commitment to safety, offering a comprehensive suite of features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping aid. The Pilot Assist system provided semi-autonomous driving assistance on highways. The XC90 received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid claimed to offer more standard safety features than any other vehicle, including a rear-seat reminder system. The Pacifica Hybrid included adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and lane-keeping assist, though the adaptive cruise system required refinement. The Pacifica Hybrid earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with a four-star rating for frontal-impact protection.