2021 Honda Odyssey vs 2022 Acura MDX

The 2021 Honda Odyssey presented a familiar yet refreshed appearance, with subtle updates to its styling. The new grille and front bumper, along with standard LED headlights across all trims, gave it a modern touch. The addition of a gloss black spear with a chrome insert across the taillights and a new 19-inch wheel design for the Touring trim further enhanced its look. These changes aimed to reduce brightwork and elevate the Odyssey's aesthetic appeal. Inside, the Odyssey offered a more luxurious feel with new perforated leather upholstery, contrast stitching, and ambient lighting, particularly in the Touring trim, making it a more upscale minivan option.

In contrast, the 2022 Acura MDX showcased a sportier and more assertive design, built on a new dedicated platform. With a longer wheelbase, wider body, and increased dash-to-axle distance, the MDX exuded elegance and modernity. The Jewel Eye LED headlights and larger wheels contributed to its sophisticated exterior. Inside, the MDX featured a layered dashboard, authentic materials like natural wood and genuine aluminum, and a unique gear selection system. The cabin's spaciousness was emphasized by the lower dashboard, and the overall craftsmanship reflected a high level of quality, befitting a luxury SUV.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, delivering 280 horsepower. This combination provided smooth and effortless power, 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, with our tests averaging 10.8 L/100 km. However, the lack of all-wheel drive put it at a disadvantage in snowy conditions. The new electronic brake booster improved brake pedal feel and response, although the brakes showed signs of fade under heavy use.

The 2022 Acura MDX featured a naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. The new 10-speed automatic transmission and Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system enhanced performance, with torque vectoring improving cornering feel and control. The MDX's suspension upgrades, including a double-wishbone front setup, improved ride quality and handling. The vehicle's overall stiffness and rigidity contributed to a solid ride feel, while the transmission's smooth operation and five drive modes allowed for a tailored driving experience. During our test drive, the MDX impressed with its cornering capabilities and highway cruising comfort.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey offered a practical and spacious interior, with logical controls and ample storage. The 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat provided comfort, while heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were standard on higher trims. The Magic Slide second-row seat layout allowed for versatile seating configurations, and the third-row seats accommodated both children and adults. Cargo space was generous, with up to 3,984 litres available, although removing the second-row seats was necessary for maximum capacity.

The 2022 Acura MDX excelled in passenger comfort and utility, with dual bucket sport seats in the front and a flexible second row with a removable centre section. The second row's sliding and reclining capabilities balanced legroom for all passengers, while the third row was best suited for smaller individuals. Cargo space ranged from 461 to 2,690 litres, with a power tailgate offering convenient access. The MDX's interior lighting was customizable, with 27 themes enhancing the cabin's ambiance.

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 CabinTalk PA system. The Touring trim offered an 11-speaker premium audio system and a Wi-Fi hotspot. However, the lack of a tuning knob and subpar voice-recognition technology were drawbacks. The rear-seat entertainment system included a 10.2-inch screen and streaming apps, though it was not a touchscreen.

The 2022 Acura MDX boasted advanced technology, including the ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System with 16 speakers and 710 watts of amplification. The 12.3-inch infotainment system and Acura Precision Cockpit digital instrument panel were standard, along with Amazon Alexa integration, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. A head-up display and surround-view camera were available on higher trims. The MDX's software could be updated over the air, ensuring the latest features and improvements.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey came equipped with Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced driving assistance systems, now standard across all trims. The system included adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, pedestrian braking, and road-sign recognition. The Odyssey's structural integrity and safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were impressive, with top marks in most categories.

The 2022 Acura MDX earned a "Top Safety Pick +" rating from the IIHS, with top marks in every category. The vehicle's advanced safety structure and high-strength steel construction enhanced collision protection. The front-end redesign improved pedestrian safety, while the low-speed braking control system provided additional security in urban environments. The AcuraWatch suite of safety features was standard, offering comprehensive driver assistance technologies.