2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2021 Ford Explorer

Ford had taken a consistent approach to its SUV lineup, offering a range of models from the Escape to the Expedition, all bearing a family resemblance. The 2021 Ford Explorer, with its sporty, raked belt lines and distinctive visages, was no exception. It featured a variety of grille options depending on the trim, from black to full chrome, and offered six trim levels ranging from the base model to the luxurious Platinum. Inside, the Explorer provided three rows of seating as standard, with cloth upholstery on the base model and leather available on higher trims. The dash was clean and user-friendly, dominated by an 8-inch LCD touchscreen and large knobs and buttons for the audio and climate controls. The XLT trim, the most popular, offered better equipment and finishes, while leather upholstery was standard on higher trims like the ST and Platinum.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, despite being a minivan, offered a unique package with its plug-in hybrid drivetrain. It wasn't the most visually appealing vehicle, even with the S Appearance Package, and it came with a hefty price tag. The interior, however, was comfortable and well-appointed, with black Nappa premium leather and a flowing design. The Pacifica Hybrid's rounded styling made it appear soft and somewhat dated compared to more modern designs. Despite this, it offered a practical and efficient way to transport up to seven people, with a 32-mile electric-only range and the ability to recharge overnight using a standard household outlet. The Pacifica Hybrid's powertrain was smooth and nearly imperceptible when switching between electric and gasoline modes, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2021 Ford Explorer, weighing in at 4,345 pounds at its lightest, featured a base 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. This engine outperformed the Kia Telluride's V6, though the Telluride was lighter. All Explorer trims came with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Limited Hybrid trim offered a V6 hybrid drivetrain with 310 hp and 331 lb-ft of torque. Higher trims featured a 3.0-liter EcoBoost twin-turbo V6, delivering 365 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque, with the sport-oriented ST trim offering 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque. The Explorer excelled in towing, with capacities ranging from 5,000 to 5,600 pounds, depending on the trim and engine.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid combined a 3.6-liter V6 engine with a dual-motor electric drive system, producing a total of 260 horsepower. The electric drive system provided immediate torque, making the Pacifica feel adequately powered even when fully loaded. It could travel up to 32 miles on electric power alone, making it ideal for short commutes and errands. The regenerative braking system helped recharge the battery, and the transition between electric and gasoline power was nearly seamless. During testing, the Pacifica Hybrid achieved an average fuel economy of 37.1 mpg. While the driving experience was not particularly engaging, the Pacifica Hybrid excelled in efficiency and practicality, making it a strong contender for families seeking a fuel-efficient vehicle.

The 2021 Ford Explorer offered seating for seven in the base model, with captain’s chairs in the second row reducing capacity to six in higher trims. It provided 39 inches of legroom for second-row passengers, which was competitive within its class. With the third row deployed, the Explorer offered 21 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 81 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. This cargo capacity was on par with smaller SUVs, making the Explorer a practical choice for families needing extra space.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, offering three rows of comfortable seating and ample cargo space. The interior featured triple-zone automatic climate control, quality leather upholstery, and heated and ventilated front seats. Storage options were plentiful, with extra shelves, large bins, and cupholders throughout the cabin. The second-row seats were more comfortable than the standard Pacifica's Stow n’ Go seats, though they did not fold into the floor. The third-row seat was reasonably comfortable, with cupholders, USB ports, and side window shades. The Pacifica Hybrid provided 32.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 87.5 cubic feet with the third row folded, and up to 140.5 cubic feet with the second-row seats removed.

The 2021 Ford Explorer came equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen as standard, featuring AM/FM radio, SiriusXM satellite radio, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 4G WiFi hotspot, Ford’s Sync 3 infotainment system, and a six-speaker audio system. Higher trims offered a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system and an upgrade to a 10.1-inch touchscreen. Charging options included two USB ports in the center console and five 12-volt power points, with a 110-volt AC power outlet available on higher trims.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, offering appealing graphics, a simple user interface, and speedy response. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, Amazon Alexa compatibility, and connected services with a Wi-Fi hotspot. The available FamCam overhead camera system allowed parents to monitor rear-seat passengers. The Pacifica Hybrid also offered a 20-speaker Harman Kardon premium sound system and an Amazon Fire TV rear-seat entertainment system. However, the voice recognition technology was hit-and-miss, and the rear-seat entertainment system might be unnecessary for families with their own devices.

The 2021 Ford Explorer earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with top scores in all crash tests and an "Acceptable" rating for adaptive headlights. The Explorer came standard with the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite, including auto high-beam headlights, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane keeping assist, forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, and dynamic brake support. Higher trims offered additional features like adaptive cruise control, evasive steering assist, and speed sign recognition.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid also earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. It came with a comprehensive package of standard driver-assist and collision-avoidance features, including a rear-seat reminder system. However, the adaptive cruise control system needed refinement, particularly in recognizing departing vehicles and moderating speed when other motorists cut in. Despite these issues, the Pacifica Hybrid provided a high level of safety and security for families.