2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2023 Lexus RX

The 2023 Lexus RX presented a refined exterior with a shorter height, broader width, and longer wheelbase, maintaining the same overall length as its predecessor. Despite offering more cargo space than the 2022 model, it appeared smaller due to reduced rear overhang and softer design lines. The signature spindle-style grille was seamlessly integrated, complemented by a modern mesh texture and an elevated hood. The RX's exterior styling was distinct yet familiar, ensuring it stood out without being overly aggressive. Inside, the RX boasted a modern interior with fewer buttons, digital instrumentation, and a choice of touchscreen displays. High-quality materials were evident, with options for NuLuxe artificial leather or genuine leather, and various dashboard trims. The RX was available in multiple trims, including hybrid options, with pricing expected to remain close to the previous model's base price.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, available in Touring L, Limited, and Pinnacle trims, offered a practical and stylish minivan option. The Limited trim with the S Appearance Package added sleek black accents and 18-inch wheels. The Pacifica's split grille and LED headlamps provided a modern touch, while the LED tail lamps spanned the rear. Inside, the Limited trim featured a dark interior with Nappa leather seats and a sophisticated dashboard. The Pacifica Hybrid's interior was spacious, with comfortable seating across three rows, though taller passengers might find the second-row seats a bit low. The minivan's cargo space was generous, though the plug-in hybrid model lacked the Stow 'n Go seats due to battery placement.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. During testing, the RX 350 Luxury trim displayed occasional torque steer and excess body motion over uneven surfaces, while the F Sport Handling trim offered a more secure ride with its adaptive suspension. The RX 350 AWD accelerated to 60 mph in 7.2 seconds, with fuel economy estimates of 24 mpg combined. The turbo engine provided better performance at higher altitudes and improved fuel efficiency compared to the previous V6, though it lacked the same refinement.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid combined a 3.6-liter V6 engine with a 16-kWh battery and two electric motors, offering 260 horsepower and 230 pound-feet of torque. The plug-in hybrid provided an EPA-rated 32 miles of all-electric range and 82 MPGe, with a total range of 520 miles. In testing, the Pacifica exceeded these estimates, achieving 33 miles of electric range and over 550 miles of total range. The minivan's electric power delivery defaulted to all-electric mode, which was efficient in city driving but less so on highways. The Pacifica Hybrid was FWD only and lacked a towing package, but it offered a smooth driving experience with a CVT and a lower center of gravity for improved handling.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 offered a comfortable interior with premium materials and advanced seating options. The Luxury trim featured semi-aniline leather upholstery, ten-way power-adjustable front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The F Sport Handling trim included sportier NuLuxe seats and Dark Graphite trim. Both models provided ample rear seat comfort, though taller passengers might find headroom limited. The RX's cargo space was improved, with 29.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 46.2 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in interior space and family-friendly features. The FamCam interior camera allowed parents to monitor rear passengers, while heated and cooled front seats and a heated steering wheel added comfort. The second-row seats were comfortable but low, and the third row offered ample space for adults. The Pacifica Hybrid's cargo space was generous, with 32.3 cubic feet behind the third row and 140.5 cubic feet with all seats folded. However, the plug-in hybrid model lacked Stow 'n Go seats and a built-in vacuum cleaner.

The 2023 Lexus RX featured the new Lexus Interface infotainment system with a choice of 9.8-inch or 14-inch touchscreens. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and various connected services. Drive Connect offered Intelligent Assistant voice recognition, though it occasionally provided inaccurate results. The RX also offered user profiles, streaming apps, and a 21-speaker Mark Levinson sound system. However, the system lacked the ability to display multiple data panels simultaneously.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid came with a 10.1-inch touchscreen running Uconnect 5, known for its user-friendly interface and crisp graphics. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. The optional rear seat entertainment system added two 10-inch screens for second-row passengers, though it was an expensive addition. The Pacifica Hybrid offered numerous charging options, including USB ports, 12-volt outlets, and wireless charging.

The 2023 Lexus RX was equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring advanced driving assistance systems like motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, and intersection turn assistance. New semi-autonomous technologies included Proactive Driving Assist, Traffic Jam Assist, and Advanced Park Assist. While LSS+ 3.0 was generally impressive, some features, like curve-speed reduction, were less effective.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid offered standard safety features such as blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. The forward collision warning system provided both visual and audible alerts, while the adaptive cruise control was smooth and responsive. Additional features like parking assist required optional packages. The 2022 Pacifica received a five-star safety rating from NHTSA and Good marks from IIHS, except for some areas.