2023 Jeep Wrangler vs 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler presented a rugged, no-nonsense design that was reminiscent of driving a brick. Its fourth-generation JL model maintained a boxy aesthetic with minimal curves, offering both two-door and four-door Unlimited versions. The Wrangler allowed for a customizable experience with removable doors and an optional Dual-Door Group for enhanced visibility and safety. Its windshield could fold down for an open-air feel, and various top options were available for adventurous drives. The exterior featured wide fenders, Jeep’s iconic seven-slot grille, round headlights, and old-school hood latches. The tailgate swung out, and the rear glass lifted for easy cargo access, while the limited-edition Reign purple paint added a unique flair.

In contrast, the 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid shared its sleek styling with the non-hybrid Pacifica, marked by a charge port and subtle badging. Despite its decade-long presence, the Pacifica maintained a contemporary look with a clean exterior and a rounded front fascia. Offered in Select and Pinnacle trims, the Pacifica Hybrid featured all-LED lighting and standard 17-inch wheels, with 18-inch options available. The Pinnacle trim boasted Nappa leather upholstery and small pillows for second-row seats, though some premium elements clashed with lower-level model features. The Pacifica Hybrid’s design emphasized practicality and comfort, aligning with Chrysler’s mastery of the minivan aesthetic.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler was renowned for its off-road prowess, featuring solid axles and optional differential lockers. It offered a range of engine options, including a standard V6 with 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. Torque enthusiasts could opt for the 3.0-liter Ecodiesel V6 with 260 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque. The Rubicon 392 model, with a 6.4-liter V8 engine, delivered 470 horsepower and torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds. The Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid offered 21 miles of all-electric range. However, the 392 model's brakes and steering were criticized for not matching its power, while other trims had more balanced performance.

The 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, a plug-in hybrid, combined a 3.6-liter V6 engine with a two-motor hybrid system and a 16-kWh battery pack, producing 260 horsepower. Unlike the non-hybrid Pacifica, it was only available in front-wheel drive and not recommended for towing. The electric motor provided quick acceleration and reduced engine noise, though the transition from electric to hybrid mode was slightly clunky. The regenerative braking system was not as effective as one-pedal driving. The Pacifica Hybrid offered a comfortable ride with a quiet cabin, enhancing passenger conversations.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler's front seats were comfortable, with heated options available in the 392 model or through a cold-weather package. The rear seat was tight, especially in four-door models, and storage for small items was limited. The Wrangler offered 72.4 cubic feet of cargo space with rear seats folded, slightly less than competitors. The hard top could be removed in sections, and the Sky One-Touch power soft top provided quick open-air access. The Wrangler featured multiple charging points, including USB-A, USB-C, and 12-volt outlets.

The 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in interior space, offering easy access with its low step-in height and sliding doors. It provided competitive headroom and legroom, though slightly less third-row legroom than some rivals. The Pacifica Hybrid lacked Stow ‘n Go second-row seats due to the battery pack but maintained ample cargo space with 32.2 cubic feet behind the third row, 87.5 cubic feet behind the second row, and 140.5 cubic feet behind the first row. The Pinnacle trim featured an Ultra Console with additional storage, though access was somewhat awkward. The Pacifica Hybrid also offered a built-in vacuum cleaner for convenience.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler came with a standard 7-inch touchscreen running the Uconnect infotainment system, with an optional 8.4-inch screen. The system initially appeared complex but was intuitive once familiar. It included off-road pages, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Wrangler offered practical tech features like a forward-facing camera and auxiliary switches but lacked advanced digital features like a digital key.

The 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen with Uconnect 5, offering wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Bluetooth, Amazon Alexa, and SiriusXM. It lacked a fully digital instrument cluster but maintained functionality. The Pacifica Hybrid included up to 12 USB-C ports, an optional FamCam rear-facing camera, and an available Uconnect Theater rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV connectivity.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler had limited standard safety features, including a rearview camera, electronic roll mitigation, and stability control. Advanced features like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control were standard only on the 392 model or available as options. The Wrangler received mixed safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, with some trims having poor headlight ratings.

The 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid had not been fully rated by the IIHS at publication, but the non-hybrid Pacifica was a 2023 IIHS Top Safety Pick. The NHTSA awarded the Pacifica Hybrid a five-star overall safety rating. It came standard with blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Pinnacle models included a 360-degree camera system and ParkSense park assist.