2021 INFINITI QX80 vs 2021 Honda Odyssey

The 2021 Honda Odyssey presented a familiar yet refreshed appearance, with subtle updates to modernize its look. The new grille and front bumper, along with standard LED headlights across all trims, gave it a contemporary edge. The Touring trim introduced a new 19-inch wheel design, enhancing its aesthetic appeal. The interior saw improvements with perforated leather upholstery and ambient lighting, elevating the minivan's luxury feel. Despite these updates, the Odyssey maintained its practical and family-friendly design, offering a comfortable and upscale experience for its occupants.

In contrast, the 2021 INFINITI QX80 showcased a blend of Nissan Armada and Infiniti styling elements, with a body-on-frame construction that emphasized its robust nature. The front-end design, introduced in 2018, gave the QX80 a distinctive and assertive look, setting it apart from its Nissan counterpart. Standard LED lighting and large alloy wheels added to its commanding presence. Inside, the QX80 featured wood trim and semi-aniline leather upholstery, though the interior design closely resembled the Armada. While luxurious, the QX80's interior lacked the exclusivity some buyers might expect from a high-end SUV.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, delivering 280 horsepower to the front wheels. This combination provided smooth and effortless power, with driving modes such as Normal, Sport, Eco, and Snow, and paddle shifters for manual control. The Odyssey's fuel efficiency was commendable, averaging 10.8 L/100 km during testing. However, the lack of all-wheel drive was a disadvantage in snowy Canadian conditions. The new electronic brake booster improved brake pedal feel, but the brakes showed signs of fade under heavy use.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 featured a 5.6-litre V8 engine producing 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque, paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission. The engine was responsive, making highway overtaking stress-free, though the transmission shifts were less smooth. The QX80's body-on-frame construction and independent suspension provided a comfortable ride, with Hydraulic Body Motion Control reducing body roll. Despite its size, the QX80's speed-sensitive power steering offered precision on the road. The SUV's 4WD system and towing capacity of 3,855 kg made it capable off-road, though its size and wheel-tire combinations limited its off-road prowess.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey offered a well-thought-out interior with logical controls and ample storage. The 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat was comfortable, with heated front seats and mirrors standard in Canada. The Magic Slide second-row seat layout provided versatile seating configurations, while the third-row seats accommodated adults comfortably. Cargo space was generous, with a maximum volume of 3,984 litres, though removing the second-row seats was cumbersome.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 came standard with a seven-seat configuration, with an eight-seat option available. The front seats offered power adjustments and lumbar support, though thigh support was lacking. Passenger space was competitive, with ample room in all three rows. Cargo space was less than some competitors, with a maximum of 2,694 litres. The power liftgate and folding third row made cargo management easier, though storage space in the centre console was limited.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Cabin Control app. Higher trims added navigation, a CabinWatch interior camera, and a premium audio system. The lack of a tuning knob and subpar voice recognition were drawbacks. The rear-seat entertainment system included a 10.2-inch screen and wireless headphones, though it wasn't a touchscreen, which disappointed some users.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80's InTouch dual-screen infotainment system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 17-speaker Bose audio system. The interface was cluttered, with small screens and confusing controls. The Smart Rearview Mirror and Around View Monitor provided helpful driving aids, though the infotainment system's usability was lacking.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey came with Honda Sensing as standard, offering advanced driving assistance systems like adaptive cruise control, pedestrian braking, and road-sign recognition. The Odyssey earned top safety ratings from the NHTSA and was expected to receive a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with standard features like blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The ProACTIVE grade added advanced safety features, though the QX80 hadn't been tested by the IIHS.