2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2024 Mazda CX-50

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, particularly in the mid-trim Limited with the S Appearance Package, presented a sleek and modern exterior. This package added body-colored door handles and mirrors, a gloss black grille surround, and black accents, all complemented by 18-inch wheels with a "Foreshadow" finish. The split grille was flanked by standard LED headlamps, and the LED tail lamps spanned the rear width, enhancing its visual appeal. Despite its minivan status, the Pacifica Hybrid offered practicality akin to an SUV, with sliding doors and ample cargo space. Inside, the Limited trim featured a dark interior with Nappa leather seats and a sophisticated dash design. However, the proximity of the HVAC and audio knobs to the transmission selector dial could cause confusion.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 was a more rugged alternative to the CX-5, boasting a lower, wider, and longer stance. Its design was fresh, with square wheel arches and faux air vents adding to its broad-shouldered look. Available in eight trim levels, the CX-50 offered a range of wheel sizes, with the 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition standing out for its all-terrain tires, black hood graphic, and pronounced rocker-panel trim. The earthy color palette and Terracotta leather upholstery enhanced its adventurous image. Inside, the CX-50 impressed with its material quality and fit, though it fell short of Mazda's upscale aspirations. The half-leatherette seats and manually-adjustable front seats on base models reminded buyers of Mazda's traditional market position.

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, 520 miles of total range, 82 MPGe, and 30 mpg combined. In practice, it exceeded these numbers, achieving 33 miles of electric range and over 550 miles of total range. Charging the battery on a Level 2 home charger took just two hours, while a standard outlet required 14 hours. The Pacifica defaulted to all-electric mode, which was efficient in city driving but less so on highways. The hybrid model was FWD only, lacked a spare tire, and couldn't be equipped with a towing package. With 260 horsepower and 230 lb-ft of torque, it offered sufficient highway passing power, though not as much as the non-hybrid version.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, with turbocharging available on higher trims. The base engine produced 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, while the turbo version delivered 256 hp and 320 lb-ft on 93-octane fuel. A six-speed automatic transmission and AWD were standard, along with Normal, Sport, and Off-road driving modes. Turbo models also included a Towing mode, increasing capacity to 3,500 pounds. The CX-50's driving experience differed from the CX-5, focusing more on daily driving than sporty dynamics. The Meridian Edition's all-terrain tires added noise and reduced grip, while the roof platform contributed to wind noise. Despite these drawbacks, the CX-50 remained well-mannered.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid offered family-friendly features like the FamCam interior camera, allowing parents to monitor second and third-row passengers. Heated and cooled front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a comfortable driver's seat added to its appeal. The second-row seats were comfortable but low, and the third row provided ample space for adults. However, the plug-in hybrid lacked the Stow 'n Go seats due to battery placement, though cargo space remained at 32.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 140.5 cubic feet with all seats folded. It also missed out on features like a built-in vacuum cleaner and heated second-row seats.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 offered similar passenger space to the CX-5, with slightly less headroom but more legroom. It trailed competitors in cargo space, with 31.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 56.3 cubic feet with them folded. A power liftgate improved cargo access, but the area wasn't ideal for dirty or bulky items. The interior featured a sensible layout with adequate storage, despite the substantial shifter and rotary infotainment controller on the center console. While some rivals offered more space, the CX-50's design was practical for less-active lifestyles.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid came with a 10.1-inch touchscreen running Uconnect 5, known for its user-friendly interface and crisp graphics. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa, with the ability to connect two phones via Bluetooth. The optional rear seat entertainment system added two 10-inch screens for second-row passengers, though its value was questionable given the prevalence of personal devices. Numerous USB ports, 12-volt outlets, and wireless charging ensured devices stayed powered.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 featured a 10.25-inch infotainment screen controlled by a rotary controller and buttons, rather than a touchscreen. Wireless Apple CarPlay was standard, but Android Auto required a cable. Higher trims offered wireless charging, SiriusXM, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. The interface required adjustment but provided physical feedback, making it easier to use without distraction. While the system felt dated, it suited buyers seeking simplicity over excessive tech.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid included standard safety features like blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The forward collision warning system was effective, and the adaptive cruise control operated smoothly. However, features like parallel parking assist required additional packages. The 2022 model received a five-star NHTSA rating and Good IIHS scores, except for Marginal seat belt reminders and Average headlights.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 earned a 2023 Top Safety Pick from the IIHS, with Good scores in crash tests and Superior front-crash prevention. However, it received Basic scores for nighttime pedestrian detection and Average standard headlights. NHTSA ratings were incomplete, with five-star frontal and four-star rollover ratings. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control, with optional rear automatic braking and a 360-degree camera system.