2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was a minivan that didn't shy away from its identity. Despite the stigma some people associated with minivans, the Pacifica Hybrid offered practical features like sliding side doors, which made it easier to load children in tight parking spaces. It was a plug-in hybrid, a rarity among three-row vehicles, and provided an efficient way to transport up to seven people. However, its rounded, flowing design appeared soft and dated compared to the more architectural motifs popular at the time. The interior, while nice with black Nappa premium leather, didn't hide the fact that it was a minivan.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was a two-row SUV that adhered to Jeep's design traditions while offering a modern twist. It shared its platform with the three-row Grand Cherokee L but was shorter and sportier. Available in various trims, from the basic Laredo to the luxurious Summit Reserve, the Grand Cherokee catered to a wide range of preferences. Its design paid homage to the classic 1963 Wagoneer, featuring a forward-leaning grille, lowered beltline, and tapered rear roof pillars. Inside, the Grand Cherokee offered a sense of quality and comfort, even in the base trim, and improved visibility for better situational awareness.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured a plug-in hybrid drivetrain based on a 3.6-liter V6 engine paired with a dual-motor electric drive system, producing a total of 260 horsepower. The 16-kWh battery pack allowed the van to travel up to 32 miles on electric power alone, making it ideal for short commutes and errands. The transition between electric and gasoline power was nearly imperceptible, and the regenerative braking system helped recharge the battery. However, the Pacifica Hybrid's driving experience was described as dull, with light steering, unremarkable brakes, and limited cornering grip. Despite these drawbacks, the powertrain's efficiency was impressive, achieving an average fuel economy of 37.1 mpg during testing.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered a choice between a 3.6-liter V6 engine with 293 horsepower and a 5.7-liter V8 engine with 357 horsepower. The V6 provided good acceleration and passing power, while the V8 offered a thrilling sound and increased towing capacity. Three different 4WD systems were available, catering to various off-roading needs. The Trailhawk trim, in particular, excelled in off-road conditions with features like an electronic locking rear differential, Quadra-Lift air suspension, and Selec-Terrain driving modes. On pavement, the Grand Cherokee felt nimble and athletic, with excellent ride quality. However, the Quadra-Lift system added complexity and cost, making the standard suspension a more appealing option for most drivers.

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 numerous storage options. The second-row seats were more comfortable than the standard Stow n' Go seats, though they couldn't collapse into the floor. The third-row seat was reasonably comfortable for adults, and the cargo area provided 32.3 cubic feet of space, expandable to 87.5 cubic feet with the third-row seats folded. Removing the second-row seats increased cargo capacity to 140.5 cubic feet, surpassing many full-size SUVs.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered a comfortable and high-quality interior, with heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and front seat massagers available in higher trims. Visibility was improved, making it easier to navigate off-road and in urban settings. Rear-seat room was tight for adults, and the two-row Grand Cherokee offered 37.7 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 70.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The three-row Grand Cherokee L provided more legroom and cargo space, making it a better option for those needing extra room.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen display, offering a user-friendly interface, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The system supported simultaneous Bluetooth pairing for two devices and included a FamCam overhead camera system for monitoring rear-seat passengers. The available 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system required adjustments for optimal sound quality. The rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV integration allowed streaming and gaming, though teenagers preferred using their own devices.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was a tech powerhouse, offering a comprehensive head-up display, Night Vision system, camera-based rearview mirror, and multiple touchscreens for information and entertainment. The Uconnect 5 system, available with an 8.4-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen, provided wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa integration, and SiriusXM 360L satellite radio. The optional 10.25-inch touchscreen for the front passenger allowed for additional entertainment and assistance. The 19-speaker McIntosh audio system and dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV integration further enhanced the Grand Cherokee's tech offerings.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted an extensive list of standard safety features, including a rear-seat reminder system. It earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. However, the adaptive cruise control system needed refinement, as it was slow to resume travel speed and braked too hard when other vehicles cut in.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee featured a robust package of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and a safety cage composed of aluminum and high-strength steel. New for 2022, the Intersection Collision Assist and Active Driving Assist systems provided additional safety and convenience. Active Driving Assist offered Level 2 semi-autonomous driving assistance, with a hands-free version expected in 2022. The Grand Cherokee's crash-test performance remained to be seen, but the new structure and safety features were promising.