2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2023 Lexus GX

The 2023 Lexus GX made a bold statement with its massive spindle grille and 8.1 inches of ground clearance, giving it a commanding presence on the road. Its front end, with large headlights, was designed to dominate the road ahead. Despite its luxury badge, the GX's design leaned towards a sleeker aesthetic compared to the blocky designs of other Toyota models. However, the interior was somewhat disappointing, with an abundance of plastic materials that didn't quite match its luxury price tag. The GX Black Line Special Edition returned for 2023, limited to 3,000 units, and offered in three distinct colors, including the new Eminent White Pearl.

In contrast, the 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid shared its styling with the non-hybrid Pacifica, maintaining a sleek and clean exterior that stood out among other minivans. The Pacifica Hybrid was offered in Select and Pinnacle trims, with the Select base model exclusive to the hybrid. It featured all-LED exterior lighting and a choice of 17-inch or 18-inch wheels. The interior boasted premium elements like Nappa leather upholstery in the Pinnacle trim, although some materials clashed with the overall upscale feel. The Pacifica Hybrid's design was understated, with only subtle hints of its plug-in hybrid nature, such as the charge port and badging.

The 2023 Lexus GX was defined by its V8 engine, delivering 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque through a six-speed automatic transmission. While it didn't excel on paper compared to more modern engines, the GX's V8 provided a satisfying sound and linear power delivery. Its 6,500-pound towing capacity was respectable, but the fuel economy was less impressive, with an EPA estimate of 15 mpg city, 19 highway, and 16 combined. The GX's weight contributed to its predictable handling, and its Torsen torque-sensing limited-slip differential enhanced its off-road capabilities.

The 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, on the other hand, featured a plug-in hybrid powertrain with a 3.6-liter V6 engine and a two-motor hybrid system, producing a total of 260 horsepower. While it had less horsepower than the non-hybrid model, the electric-motor torque provided quick acceleration and a quieter ride. The Pacifica Hybrid was front-wheel drive only and not recommended for towing. Its all-electric driving mode was efficient, and the transition between electric and hybrid modes was smooth. The Pacifica Hybrid's chassis offered a comfortable ride, and the plug-in hybrid powertrain made it even quieter.

The 2023 Lexus GX offered ample cubby space for small items, with a deep center console bin and convenient cupholders. However, it lacked modern USB-C ports, and the third row was too tight for regular use. The side-hinged trunk door required effort to open, and cargo space was limited, with only 11.6 cubic feet behind the third row. Folding the seats increased cargo capacity to 64.7 cubic feet, still less than a Toyota RAV4.

The 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in interior space, with easy access to the rear seats thanks to its low step-in height and sliding doors. While it lacked the Stow 'n Go second-row seats, it offered captain's chairs and ample cargo space, with 32.2 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 140.5 cubic feet with seats folded. The Pacifica Hybrid featured a power liftgate and a well-designed console with storage options, although the Ultra Console's accessibility was somewhat limited.

The 2023 Lexus GX featured a 10.3-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. However, the system felt dated compared to other Lexus models, and the graphics were not as crisp. The GX included a 17-speaker Mark Levinson stereo and a CD player, but its infotainment technology lagged behind competitors. Off-road capabilities were a highlight, with features like a real 4WD system, downhill assist, and the Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System.

The 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid came with a 10.1-inch touchscreen running the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and SiriusXM. While it lacked a fully digital instrument cluster, the system remained user-friendly. The Pacifica Hybrid offered up to 12 USB-C ports, an optional FamCam rear-facing camera, and the Uconnect Theater rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV connectivity.

The 2023 Lexus GX had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS, but it included advanced driver assistance systems like automatic emergency braking, lane-departure alert, and adaptive cruise control. Despite its older design, the GX featured modern safety technology.

The 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid received a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, with a five-star side crash-test rating. It came standard with safety features like blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. Pinnacle models included a 360-degree camera system and ParkSense park assist. The new Emergency Vehicle Alert System provided additional safety information.