Are you considering getting either the Chrysler Pacifica or the Toyota Sienna? The two minivans have positive attributes, including an available all-wheel drive system. However, the 2023 Chrysler Pacifica has one huge item that the 2023 Toyota Sienna doesn’t offer: a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model

Unlike the 2023 Toyota Sienna, the 2023 Chrysler Pacifica offers a plug-in hybrid model

Chrysler beats Toyota at its own game with the 2023 Chrysler Pacifica PHEV. Toyota has dominated the hybrid segment over the past two decades. And the automaker has a couple of plug-in hybrids with the RAV4 Prime and Prius Prime. However, while the 2023 Toyota Sienna comes standard with a hybrid powertrain, it doesn’t have plug-in electric capabilities. 

An advantage of a plug-in hybrid like the Pacifica PHEV is the ability to drive with electric-only power for short distances. It has an estimated electric driving range of 32 miles. The Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid is a good alternative for drivers that are hesitant to go all-electric due to range anxiety — or the fear of running out of electric power before a vehicle can reach a charging station. However, the Pacifica PHEV doesn’t have this concern. When the electric power runs out in the minivan, it switches to propulsion from the gas engine. 

2023 Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid has higher fuel economy than the 2023 Sienna

Another advantage of the plug-in hybrid system in the 2023 Chrysler Pacifica PHEV is efficiency. The minivan has higher fuel economy than the 2023 Toyota Sienna. It gets up to an estimated 82 MPGe, compared to 36 combined mpg for the Sienna.

Gasoline is a major cost of vehicle ownership. It can put a serious dent in the budget of minivan owners — especially those that drive many miles each week. However, the Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid, with its high-level efficiency, helps alleviate this financial burden. There’s less pain at the pump.

Another benefit of the high fuel economy is convenience. With its minimal fuel consumption, the Pacifica PHEV doesn’t have to make as many stops at gas stations compared to the Sienna.

Other strengths of the Chrysler Pacifica over the Toyota Sienna

The 2023 Pacifica has some other strengths over the 2023 Sienna. This includes performance. The plug-in hybrid system in the Pacifica PHEV delivers 260 horsepower, while the 3.6-liter V-6 engine in the fully gas-powered model churns out 287 horsepower. In comparison, the Sienna’s hybrid powertrain produces only 245 horsepower. Plus the Pacifica provides a slightly higher maximum payload capacity than the Sienna (3,600 vs. 3,500 pounds).

Another strength of the Pacifica is its roomy cabin. It has a total passenger volume of 165 cu-ft, compared to 162.5 cu-ft for the Sienna. Also, the spacious interior makes an even bigger difference for storage space. The Pacifica has a maximum cargo capacity of 140.5 cu-ft, while the Sienna has up to 101.1 cu-ft. Also, the Chrysler minivan comes equipped with the class-exclusive Stow ‘n Go system, which enhances cargo space by conveniently folding the seats into the floor. Plus, the cabin of the Pacifica is more upscale than the one in the Sienna — especially for the higher trims.

With its plug-in hybrid model, the 2023 Chrysler Pacifica has a huge item that the 2023 Toyota Sienna doesn’t offer. The PHEV model is something to consider for minivan shoppers, particularly those that prioritize high fuel economy.