2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2022 Lincoln Navigator

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, despite its minivan label, offered a unique proposition in the automotive market. It was a plug-in hybrid, three-row vehicle that provided the practicality of a minivan with the added benefit of electric-only driving. While it didn't boast the rugged image of an SUV, it excelled in functionality with its sliding side doors and spacious interior. The Pacifica Hybrid's design, though not particularly striking, was complemented by quality interior materials like black Nappa leather. However, its styling appeared somewhat dated compared to more modern, angular designs. Despite its high price tag, the Pacifica Hybrid stood out as a practical choice for those prioritizing efficiency and utility.

In contrast, the 2022 Lincoln Navigator underwent subtle styling changes, including new headlights, taillights, and a redesigned front end. While the new grille design was reminiscent of an Audi, it didn't quite achieve the elegance intended. Nevertheless, the Navigator's updates were largely successful, with the interior continuing to impress with high-quality materials and a mid-century modern design. The introduction of Lincoln's Constellation instrumentation and infotainment display theme added a touch of sophistication. The Navigator's spacious interior, especially in the Black Label trim, provided a luxurious experience with features like heated, ventilated, and massaging seats, making it a comfortable choice for long journeys.

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, delivering a total output of 260 horsepower. The electric drive system provided immediate torque, ensuring the Pacifica never felt underpowered, 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, contributing to an impressive average fuel economy of 37.1 mpg during testing. However, the driving experience was somewhat uninspiring, with light steering and unremarkable regenerative brakes. Despite this, the Pacifica Hybrid's powertrain was praised for its efficiency and seamless transition between electric and gasoline modes.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator retained its twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. This robust powertrain allowed the Navigator to tow between 8,100 and 8,700 pounds, depending on the configuration. The SUV's adaptive-damping suspension, equipped with Road Preview, enhanced ride quality by preparing for road imperfections. The Navigator's new electronic brake booster improved brake pedal feel and response. During testing, the Navigator effortlessly handled various driving conditions, including snow and mud, thanks to its four-wheel drive and 9.7 inches of ground clearance. The Navigator's fuel economy was rated at 18 mpg in combined driving, and it achieved 18.6 mpg during testing.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, offering three comfortable rows of seats and ample cargo space. The interior featured quality leather upholstery, triple-zone automatic climate control, and heated and ventilated front seats. Storage options were abundant, with extra shelves, a large floor tray, and a long storage bin behind the center console. The second-row seats were more comfortable than the standard Pacifica's Stow n' Go chairs, though they required removal to maximize cargo space. 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 seats folded and up to 140.5 cubic feet with the second-row seats removed.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator continued to offer exceptional comfort with its 30-way power-adjustable front seats, which were heated, ventilated, and massaging. The second-row captain's chairs also featured heating, ventilation, and massage functions, enhancing passenger comfort. The third-row seat remained spacious and supportive, benefiting from the Navigator's independent rear suspension design. The Navigator's cargo space was generous, with 19.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 57.5 cubic feet with the third row folded and up to 103.3 cubic feet with the second row collapsed. The long-wheelbase Navigator L offered even more cargo capacity.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen display. It offered a user-friendly interface, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The system supported multiple user profiles and included features like FamCam, a rear-seat camera system. However, the voice recognition technology was inconsistent. The Pacifica Hybrid also came with a 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, though the sound quality required adjustment. The available rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV provided access to streaming content, but passengers often preferred their own devices.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced the Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen display. The system supported Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and featured a user-friendly interface with physical controls for volume and climate functions. Sync 4's voice recognition system was improved but not flawless. The Navigator's rear-seat entertainment system, equipped with Amazon Fire TV, offered access to popular streaming services. The test vehicle also featured a 28-speaker Revel 3D audio system, delivering exceptional sound quality.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted an extensive list of standard safety features, including a rear-seat reminder system. It received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. However, the adaptive cruise control system required refinement, as it was slow to respond to changing traffic conditions.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced new driver assistance systems, including Intersection Assist, Road Edge Detection, Active Park Assist 2.0, and ActiveGlide. ActiveGlide, a semi-autonomous driving technology, performed well on approved highways but required driver attention. The Navigator's safety features aimed to enhance convenience and safety, though the technology was not infallible.