2024 Acura MDX vs 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, available in Touring L, Limited, and Pinnacle trims, presented a sleek appearance with the Limited trim's S Appearance Package. This package added body-colored door handles and mirrors, a gloss black grille surround, and black accents, complemented by 18-inch wheels with a "Foreshadow" finish. The minivan's practicality was highlighted by its sliding doors and ample cargo space, making it a sensible choice over SUVs. Inside, the Limited trim featured a dark interior with Nappa leather seats and a sophisticated dash design. However, the proximity of the HVAC and audio knobs to the transmission selector dial could cause confusion.

The 2024 Acura MDX impressed with its modern design, featuring a large shield grille, rakish headlights, and a refined lower bumper. Inside, the cabin was high-tech but cluttered with numerous controls. The MDX was available in several trims, including the Technology, A-Spec, and Advance Packages, as well as the Type-S and Type-S Advance. Standard features included tri-zone climate control, synthetic leather upholstery, and a panoramic sunroof. The Type-S Advance package, which was reviewed, offered a 26-speaker ELS sound system and massaging front seats, providing a luxurious driving experience. Despite the Mercedes-Benz GLS's superior cabin, the MDX excelled in comfort and massaging features.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid combined a 3.6-liter V6 engine with a 16-kWh battery and two electric motors, offering 260 horsepower and 230 pound-feet of torque. It was the only minivan available as a plug-in hybrid, with an EPA rating of 32 miles of all-electric range, 520 miles of total range, 82 MPGe, and 30 mpg combined. In testing, it exceeded these numbers, achieving 33 miles of electric range and over 550 miles of total range. However, the Pacifica defaulted to all-electric mode first, which was less efficient on highways. The hybrid model was front-wheel drive only and lacked a spare tire and towing package, unlike the gasoline-only Pacifica.

The 2024 Acura MDX featured a standard 3.5-liter V6 engine with 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. The Type-S variant, driven for this review, boasted a twin-scroll turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine with 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. Power was managed by a 10-speed automatic transmission, with available Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive. The Type-S Advance offered strong acceleration and a comfortable ride, thanks to Brembo brakes and adaptive air suspension. The MDX's Integrated Dynamics System provided various driving modes, including Sport+ and Lift mode, enhancing its versatility. With a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, the MDX was a capable luxury SUV.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid offered a FamCam interior camera for monitoring rear passengers, heated and cooled front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The second-row seats were comfortable but low, while the third row provided ample space for adults. However, the plug-in hybrid lacked Stow 'n Go seats due to the battery placement, offering 32.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 140.5 cubic feet with all seats folded. The absence of a built-in vacuum cleaner and heated second-row seats was noted.

The 2024 Acura MDX came standard with three rows of seating, with the first two rows being comfortable and supportive. The third row was smaller, suitable for children. Cargo space measured 16.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 71.4 cubic feet with all seats folded. The Type-S Advance featured a second-row bench with a fold-down center console and integrated cupholders. The center console offered ample storage, but the cluttered center stack of controls, including a touchpad shifter, was a drawback. The MDX's power liftgate and optional hands-free feature added convenience.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen with Uconnect 5, offering wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The optional rear seat entertainment system added two 10-inch screens for second-row passengers, but its value was questionable given the prevalence of personal devices. The Pacifica provided numerous charging options, including USB-A, USB-C, 12-volt outlets, and wireless charging.

The 2024 Acura MDX's infotainment system was its weak point, with a 12.3-inch display controlled by a touchpad, which was unintuitive. Despite this, the MDX offered wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, satellite radio, HD radio, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The clever placement of charging ports and a leather handrest for the touchpad were highlights. However, the system's complexity detracted from the overall experience, especially compared to competitors like the Genesis GV80.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid included standard safety features such as blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The forward collision warning system was effective, and the adaptive cruise control was smooth. However, features like parallel parking assist required additional packages. The 2022 Pacifica received a five-star NHTSA rating and Good IIHS scores, except for Marginal seat belt reminders and Average headlights.

The 2024 Acura MDX offered a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. The Technology Package added parking sensors and reverse automatic emergency braking, while the Advance package included a 360-degree camera and head-up display. The 2022 MDX earned a five-star NHTSA rating and was an IIHS Top Safety Pick+, with Superior crash-prevention technology. However, the infotainment system's distraction potential was a concern.