2021 Toyota 4Runner vs 2021 Honda Odyssey

The 2021 Honda Odyssey presented a familiar design that had been subtly updated for the new model year. It featured a new grille and front bumper, standard LED headlights with automatic high-beam operation across all trims, and a gloss black spear with a chrome insert stretching across the taillights. The Touring trim introduced a new 19-inch wheel design, enhancing the minivan's modern appeal by reducing brightwork. The Odyssey was available in four trim levels, with pricing ranging from $44,645 to $55,845, and an additional $300 for colours other than grey or silver. The interior boasted new perforated leather upholstery with contrast stitching and piping, ambient lighting, and tri-colour floor mats, contributing to a more upscale look and feel.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota 4Runner retained a design that had aged well over its 12-year lifespan. While not conventionally attractive, the 4Runner's two-box body with flared fenders and trapezoidal wheel arches exuded balanced proportions and timeless styling. The SUV was available in Trail and SR5 trims, with various packages like TRD Off Road and TRD Pro. Pricing started at $46,200 and went up to $62,430. The interior was utilitarian, with hard plastic surfaces and a dashboard featuring large knobs and buttons. Despite its age, the 4Runner's design was appreciated for its durability and utility, making it a reliable tool for off-road adventures.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 280 horsepower, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. This combination provided smooth and effortless power delivery, with driving modes including Normal, Sport, Eco, and Snow. The Odyssey's fuel efficiency was rated at 10.6 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, and it averaged 10.8 L/100 km during testing. However, the lack of all-wheel drive put it at a disadvantage in snowy conditions. The Odyssey's ride and handling were enjoyable, with well-weighted steering and firm yet comfortable suspension. The brakes, though improved, showed signs of fade under heavy use.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner featured a 4.0-litre V6 engine generating 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. It excelled off-road, thanks to its A-Trac traction control system and optional packages that added features like a locking rear differential and Crawl Control. On pavement, the 4Runner felt slow and heavy, with clunky steering and brakes. Its truck-like driving characteristics were part of its charm, but fuel consumption was high, averaging 14.0 L/100 km. The 4Runner's off-road prowess was undeniable, but its on-road performance left much to be desired.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey offered a spacious and well-organized interior with logical controls and ample storage. The driver's seat was comfortable and adjustable, with heated front seats and mirrors standard in Canada. The Magic Slide second-row seat layout provided versatile seating configurations, and the third-row seats accommodated 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.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner's interior was comfortable, with supportive seats and ample legroom. The back seat offered good visibility, air conditioning vents, and USB ports. Cargo space measured up to 1,337 litres behind the back seat and 2,540 litres with the rear seat folded. The 4Runner's high ground clearance made entry challenging for shorter individuals, but it provided a commanding view of the road. Interior storage was decent, and the back bumper served as a convenient seating area.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth. Higher trims added navigation, a CabinWatch interior camera, and a CabinTalk PA system. The Touring trim included an 11-speaker audio system and a Wi-Fi hotspot. However, the lack of a tuning knob and subpar voice recognition were drawbacks. The rear-seat entertainment system included a 10.2-inch screen and streaming apps, though it wasn't a touchscreen.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner's Trail grade offered basic technology, including an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. Higher trims added navigation and concierge services. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with physical buttons and knobs for easy operation. The 4Runner's technology was functional but not cutting-edge, reflecting its utilitarian nature.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey came with Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced driving assistance systems, as standard. It included adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, pedestrian braking, and road-sign recognition. The Odyssey earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover resistance rating. The ADAS worked accurately but could be smoother in operation.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner featured Toyota Safety Sense P, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane departure warning. However, it lacked blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic warning. The 4Runner received a three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA and a "Good" roof crush strength rating from the IIHS. Its safety ratings reflected its age and design.