2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was a familiar sight, echoing Jeep's design traditions while offering a two-row version of the previous year's Grand Cherokee L. It launched with a variety of trims, from the basic Laredo to the luxurious Summit Reserve, each delivering on its promise of capability or comfort. The design paid homage to the classic 1963 Wagoneer, featuring a forward-leaning grille and trapezoidal wheel arches. Inside, the Grand Cherokee mirrored the Grand Cherokee L, with options ranging from basic cloth seats to premium leather and high-end audio systems in the Summit Reserve.

In contrast, the 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid offered a practical minivan experience with trims like Touring L, Limited, and Pinnacle. The Limited trim, enhanced with the S Appearance Package, featured body-colored accents and 18-inch wheels. The Pacifica Hybrid's interior was sophisticated, with Nappa leather seats and a user-friendly layout. However, the interior was predominantly dark unless upgraded to the top trim. The Pacifica's practicality shone through with its sliding doors and ample cargo space, although some features like Stow ‘n Go seats were unavailable due to the hybrid battery placement.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered a choice between a V6 and a V8 engine, with rear-wheel or four-wheel drive options. The standard 3.6-liter V6 produced 293 horsepower, while the 5.7-liter V8 delivered 357 horsepower, enhancing towing capacity to 7,200 pounds. Three 4WD systems were available, catering to different off-roading needs. The Trailhawk trim excelled off-road with features like Quadra-Drive II and a Quadra-Lift air suspension. Fuel economy ranged from 17 to 21 mpg, depending on the engine and drivetrain.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid combined a 3.6-liter V6 with a 16-kWh battery, offering 32 miles of electric range and 82 MPGe. Our tests exceeded these figures, achieving 33 miles of electric range and over 550 miles total. The Pacifica defaulted to electric mode, which was efficient in city driving but less so on highways. The hybrid model was front-wheel drive only and lacked a towing package. It delivered 260 horsepower, with a smooth CVT and a lower center of gravity for better handling.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee provided comfort across all trims, with features like heated and ventilated seats and a panoramic sunroof. Visibility was improved, aiding off-road and city driving. However, rear-seat space was tight, and cargo capacity was less than the Grand Cherokee L, offering 37.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured the FamCam interior camera, heated and cooled front seats, and a spacious third row. While the Stow ‘n Go seats were unavailable, cargo space remained generous, with 32.3 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 140.5 cubic feet with seats folded. However, competitors like the Kia Carnival offered more overall space.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was a tech powerhouse with features like a head-up display, Night Vision, and multiple touchscreens. The Uconnect 5 system offered improved responsiveness and over-the-air updates. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with options for a McIntosh audio system and a front passenger interactive display.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid came with a 10.1-inch touchscreen running Uconnect 5, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The optional rear-seat entertainment system added two 10-inch screens, though its value was questionable given the prevalence of personal devices. Multiple charging ports ensured devices stayed powered throughout the cabin.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee featured advanced driver assistance systems and a robust safety cage. New features included Intersection Collision Assist and Active Driving Assist, offering semi-autonomous driving capabilities. A hands-free version was anticipated for 2022.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid included standard safety features like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. While some features required additional packages, the 2022 model received a five-star safety rating from NHTSA, and the IIHS rated it well, except for some areas like seat belt reminders.