2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid vs 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, despite its minivan label, offered a unique blend of practicality and efficiency that was hard to ignore. While it didn't boast the rugged appeal of a three-row midsize crossover SUV, it excelled in functionality with its sliding side doors, making it a convenient choice for families. The Pacifica Hybrid was not a standout in terms of aesthetics, even with the S Appearance Package, and its price point was on the higher side. However, the interior, with its black Nappa premium leather, provided a sense of quality, though the overall design felt somewhat dated compared to more modern competitors.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid embraced a more robust and angular design, shedding its previous softer crossover styling. The trapezoidal grille and beveled bodywork gave it a more substantial presence, aligning with the trend seen in other models like the Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-50. Inside, the RAV4 Hybrid continued the angular theme with a multi-tiered dashboard, offering a visually interesting yet practical layout. While the materials were average for its class, the build quality was solid, and the driving experience was smooth and confident, if not particularly sporty.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was powered by 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 to transport up to seven people efficiently, with an electric-only range of 51 kilometres. The Pacifica Hybrid's powertrain was seamless, with the transition from electric to gasoline power being nearly imperceptible. It achieved an average fuel economy of 6.3 litres per 100 kilometres, thanks to its regenerative braking system. However, the driving experience was somewhat uninspiring, with light steering and unremarkable brakes, making it feel more like an appliance than an engaging vehicle.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, on the other hand, featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine combined with an electric motor, producing 219 horsepower. It accelerated to 100 km/h in approximately 7.5 seconds, making it quicker than the standard RAV4. The RAV4 Hybrid's brakes operated smoothly, with regenerative braking charging the battery during deceleration. The suspension provided a comfortable ride over bumps and potholes, and while it wasn't sporty, it handled corners confidently. The driving dynamics were calm and effortless, appealing to most drivers seeking a reliable and efficient hybrid SUV.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, offering three comfortable rows of seats and ample cargo space. With 914 litres of cargo space behind the third row and up to 3,978 litres with the second-row seats removed, it provided more room than many full-size SUVs. The interior featured quality leather upholstery, triple-zone climate control, and numerous storage solutions, making it a practical choice for families. However, removing the second-row seats to maximize cargo space was cumbersome compared to SUVs with fold-flat seats.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid offered spacious front seats and adequate rear seating for average-sized adults. It provided 1,059 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, comparable to its competitors. The interior storage was well-designed, with a wide dashboard shelf, large cupholders, and a spacious centre armrest bin. Dual-zone climate control was standard, enhancing comfort for all passengers. While the rear seatbacks folded flat with the cargo floor, accessing them required a long reach, which could be challenging for shorter individuals.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen display. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and the FamCam overhead camera system for monitoring rear passengers. The available 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system required adjustments for optimal sound quality. The rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV was an option, though many passengers preferred using their own devices.

In 2023, the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid introduced a new multimedia infotainment system with improved graphics and logical menu arrangements. Most trims came with an 8.0-inch display, while higher trims upgraded to a 10.5-inch touchscreen. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, and a wireless charging pad was optional. The system supported over-the-air updates and included a Wi-Fi hotspot. The top trims featured an 11-speaker JBL audio system, providing enhanced sound quality.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted a comprehensive suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and lane-keeping assist. However, the adaptive cruise control needed refinement, as it was slow to resume speed and braked too hard in moderate traffic. 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 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS. It came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, which included forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and more. The top trims added parking sensors, a surround-view camera system, and a digital rearview mirror. The safety systems functioned smoothly, with no false alarms during testing.