2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2024 Lexus GX

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, particularly in the mid-trim Limited with the S Appearance Package, presented a sleek and modern exterior. This package added body-colored door handles and mirrors, a gloss black grille surround, and black accents, all complemented by 18-inch wheels with a "Foreshadow" finish. The minivan's split grille was flanked by standard LED headlamps, and the LED tail lamps spanned the rear width, enhancing its visual appeal. Despite the minivan's practical nature, its interior was somewhat dark, with handsome 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.

In contrast, the 2024 Lexus GX embraced a bold geometric design, departing from its predecessor's softer lines. The less pronounced spindle grille was flanked by standard triple-beam LED headlights, giving the front a more aggressive look. The GX's body appeared as if carved from a solid block, with minimal character lines and a low window beltline for better visibility. The interior was minimalist yet sophisticated, with fewer physical buttons but retaining essential controls. The GX offered six trim levels, with the Overtrail models focusing on off-roading capabilities, featuring eco-friendly Nuluxe leatherette upholstery and advanced off-road hardware.

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 fuel economy. However, real-world testing showed slightly better numbers, with 33 miles of electric range and over 550 miles of total range. The Pacifica Hybrid defaulted to all-electric mode first, which was efficient in city driving but less so on highways. It was front-wheel drive only and lacked a spare tire and towing package, unlike its gasoline-only counterpart.

The 2024 Lexus GX, now powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6 engine, delivered 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. Built on the GA-F truck platform, it featured a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard full-time four-wheel drive with a locking Torsen limited-slip center differential. The Overtrail trims added a locking rear differential and the Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS) for enhanced off-road capability. The GX accelerated well and maintained composure on-road, with effective brakes and minimal body roll. Off-road testing was limited due to weather conditions, but the GX's capabilities were evident.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid offered family-friendly features like the FamCam interior camera, heated and cooled front seats, and a spacious interior. The second-row seats were comfortable but low, and the third row provided ample space for adults. However, the plug-in hybrid lacked the flat-fold 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. It also missed out on features like a built-in vacuum cleaner and heated second-row seats.

The 2024 Lexus GX's interior was more minimalist and sophisticated, with rotary knobs for climate control and physical buttons for off-roading features. It provided 41.2 inches of legroom in the front and 36.7 inches in the second row, but the third row was tight for adults. The GX excelled in cargo space, with 10.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 76.9 cubic feet in total. Overtrail models offered even more space, with 45.6 cubic feet behind the second row and 90.5 cubic feet overall.

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 ample charging options, including USB-A and USB-C ports, 12-volt outlets, and a 115-volt outlet.

The 2024 Lexus GX boasted a 14-inch touchscreen with the Lexus Interface infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Drive Connect subscription service included an intelligent voice assistant, while Remote Connect provided remote locking, unlocking, and vehicle diagnostics. The GX came with a 10-speaker audio system, with a 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo available on higher trims. However, some features required subscription plans after an initial three-year trial.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid came with a suite of standard safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The forward collision warning system was particularly effective, and the adaptive cruise control was smooth. However, features like parallel parking assist required additional packages. The 2023 model had not been rated by the NHTSA, but the 2022 version received a five-star rating, and the IIHS gave it Good marks overall.

The 2024 Lexus GX saw significant improvements in safety, with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 now standard. It included pre-collision detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing assist, and road-sign recognition. The proactive driving assist feature enhanced safety during highway turns. While the 2024 GX had not been crash-tested by the IIHS or NHTSA, its modern architecture and advanced safety features inspired confidence.