2021 Genesis GV80 vs 2021 Honda Odyssey

The 2021 Genesis GV80, as Genesis's first SUV, presented a fresh design opportunity unburdened by a long legacy. It successfully integrated the brand's signature styling cues, such as the massive trapezoidal grille and Quad Lamp LED headlights, into its elegant two-box design. The GV80's interior was a testament to luxury, featuring a sleek dashboard with minimal controls, a 14.5-inch high-definition display, and authentic materials like real wood and leather, creating a sophisticated and spacious environment.

In contrast, the 2021 Honda Odyssey maintained a familiar look with subtle updates to modernize its appearance. The new grille, front bumper, and LED headlights added a touch of freshness, while the Touring trim introduced a new 19-inch wheel design. Inside, the Odyssey offered a comfortable and upscale feel with perforated leather upholstery and ambient lighting. The minivan's interior was designed for practicality, with logical controls and ample storage, making it a family-friendly choice.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 offered two engine options: a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and a 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 with 375 horsepower. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. The GV80's ride was enhanced by an electronically controlled suspension with road preview on the 3.5T models, providing a smooth driving experience. Fuel consumption for the 2.5T was estimated at 11.3 L/100 km city and 9.5 highway, while the 3.5T was rated at 12.9 L/100 km city and 10.4 highway.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey featured a 3.5-litre V6 engine with 280 horsepower, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The front-wheel-drive minivan offered smooth and effortless power delivery, with driving modes including Normal, Sport, Eco, and Snow. The Odyssey's fuel consumption was estimated at 10.6 L/100 km combined, and it lacked all-wheel drive, which was a disadvantage in snowy conditions. The Odyssey's handling was enjoyable, with well-weighted steering and firm yet comfortable ride quality, although the brakes showed signs of fade under heavy use.

The Genesis GV80's interior was a blend of technology and luxury, featuring a rotary gear selector, a circular multimedia controller, and capacitive touch buttons for the HVAC system. The second row was spacious and comfortable, with power-adjustable seats and window shades. The 3.5T models included a third row, increasing passenger capacity to seven, with power-folding seats for added convenience.

The Honda Odyssey excelled in practicality, offering a 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat, heated front seats, and ample storage space. The Magic Slide second-row seat layout provided versatile seating configurations, while the third-row seats accommodated both children and adults comfortably. Cargo space was generous, with 929 litres behind the third row and up to 3,984 litres with seats removed. However, removing the second-row seats was cumbersome, despite their improved fold-flat design.

The Genesis GV80 featured a 14.5-inch HD touchscreen with user-configurable displays, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system offered cloud connectivity, over-the-air updates, and a digital key function for Android users. A head-up display and a 12.3-inch 3D digital instrument cluster were available on higher trims, along with a premium Lexicon audio system with 21 speakers.

The Honda Odyssey came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Cabin Control app. Higher trims included navigation, a CabinWatch interior camera, and a CabinTalk PA system. The Touring trim added an 11-speaker audio system, wireless charging, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. However, the lack of a tuning knob and subpar voice recognition were notable drawbacks.

The Genesis GV80 earned top safety ratings, including a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. It featured 10 airbags, advanced driver assistance systems, and adaptive cruise control with machine learning. The GV80 also offered Remote Smart Parking Assist for automated parking.

The Honda Odyssey's safety features were enhanced for 2021, with Honda Sensing now standard. The system included adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, pedestrian braking, and road-sign recognition. The Odyssey maintained its impressive safety ratings, with top scores from the NHTSA and expected high marks from the IIHS.