2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2022 Ford Explorer

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, despite its minivan label, offered a unique proposition in the automotive market. It was a plug-in hybrid minivan, a rarity among mainstream brands, providing a practical solution for families needing efficient transportation. The Pacifica Hybrid's design, while not particularly striking, was functional, especially with its sliding side doors that facilitated easy access in tight parking spaces. The interior, though comfortable with quality materials like black Nappa leather, appeared somewhat dated compared to more modern, angular designs. Despite its higher price point, the Pacifica Hybrid's combination of utility and efficiency made it a compelling choice for those prioritizing practicality over style.

In contrast, the 2022 Ford Explorer presented a more athletic and rugged appearance, thanks to its rear-drive platform that allowed for a long hood and a rakish roofline. The Explorer's design was further enhanced by blacked-out roof pillars, giving it a floating roof effect. Inside, the Explorer offered a mix of quality materials, though some elements hinted at its base trim origins. The Explorer's diverse model lineup, including the sporty ST-Line and rugged Timberline, catered to a wide range of preferences, making it a versatile option for those seeking a midsize SUV with a more traditional SUV aesthetic.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was equipped with a plug-in hybrid drivetrain based on a 3.6-litre V6 engine paired with a dual-motor electric drive system, delivering a total of 260 horsepower. This setup allowed the Pacifica Hybrid to travel up to 51 kilometres on electric power alone, making it ideal for short commutes and errands. The regenerative braking system further enhanced efficiency by capturing energy during coasting. Despite its efficient powertrain, the Pacifica Hybrid's driving experience was somewhat uninspiring, with light steering and unremarkable regenerative brakes. However, its ability to handle speed humps effortlessly was a notable highlight.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered three powertrains, starting with a turbocharged 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, provided a towing capacity of up to 2,400 kilograms. The Explorer also offered a hybrid option with a 3.3-litre V6 engine, delivering a combined 318 horsepower and 322 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. For those seeking more power, a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine was available, generating 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of 2,540 kilograms. The Explorer's ride quality was robust, handling off-road terrain with ease, and offering an engaging driving experience, especially in the sport-tuned ST variant.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, offering three comfortable rows of seats and ample cargo space. The interior featured triple-zone automatic climate control, quality leather upholstery, and heated and ventilated front seats. Storage solutions were abundant, with extra shelves, bins, and a large floor tray. 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 Pacifica Hybrid provided 914 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,477 litres with the third row folded, and up to 3,978 litres with the second-row seats removed.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered comfort for families, with available second-row captain's chairs and a third-row seat suitable for children. Higher trims featured triple-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and a power-adjustable heated steering wheel. However, the Explorer's interior storage was limited, with missed opportunities for additional pockets and shelves. The Explorer provided 528 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,264 litres with the third row folded, and up to 2,132 litres with both rear rows down.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and the FamCam overhead camera system. The system allowed for five user profiles and simultaneous Bluetooth pairing for two devices. However, the voice recognition technology was inconsistent. The Pacifica Hybrid also offered a 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system and an optional Amazon Fire TV rear-seat entertainment system.

The 2022 Ford Explorer came with two versions of the Sync 3 infotainment system, featuring either an 8-inch or a 10.1-inch touchscreen. The system included FordPass Connect services, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 14-speaker Bang and Olufsen sound system. However, the voice recognition system was less advanced than Ford's newer Sync 4 technology. Additional tech features included a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and Active Park Assist 2.0.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and lane-keeping assist. However, the adaptive cruise control required refinement. The Pacifica 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.

The 2022 Ford Explorer also received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. It came standard with Ford Co-Pilot360, which included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. The Explorer's adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assist worked well, though the system occasionally issued unnecessary warnings to hold the steering wheel.