2022 BMW X3 vs 2021 Honda Odyssey

The 2021 Honda Odyssey presented a familiar yet refreshed appearance, with subtle updates to modernize its decade-old styling theme. The new model year introduced a redesigned 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 debuted a new 19-inch wheel design, enhancing the minivan's aesthetic appeal. Inside, the Odyssey offered a more luxurious feel with new perforated leather upholstery, contrast stitching, and ambient lighting in the Touring trim, elevating its status as a premium minivan option.

In contrast, the 2022 BMW X3 showcased a more aggressive exterior design with a slightly larger kidney grille and adaptive full LED headlights that were slimmer by a centimetre. The rear featured new taillights with a black surround and pincer claw-shaped brake light LEDs, adding a modern touch. The X3 offered a variety of new paint options and an M Sport Package for the xDrive30i models, which included sportier design elements. Inside, the X3's cabin was clean and efficient, with a variety of trim options and a standard panoramic moonroof on the M40i. The interior was well-appointed, offering a range of seating materials and ambient lighting for a customizable experience.

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. It featured Normal, Sport, Eco, and Snow driving modes, along with paddle shifters. The Odyssey's V6 engine provided smooth and effortless power, aided by variable cylinder management for improved fuel efficiency. It achieved a combined fuel consumption of 10.6 litres per 100 kilometres, although our testing loop averaged 10.8 L/100 km. Despite its enjoyable driving dynamics, the Odyssey lacked all-wheel drive, which was a disadvantage in snowy Canadian conditions. The new electronic brake booster improved brake pedal feel and response, but the brakes showed signs of fade during intense use.

The 2022 BMW X3 offered an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters as standard. The xDrive30i variant featured a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 248 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, with a 0-100 km/h time of 6.3 seconds. The M40i variant boasted a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine with a mild-hybrid system, generating 382 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-100 km/h in 4.5 seconds. The M40i's performance was enhanced by a flap-controlled sports exhaust system, sport brakes, and an adaptive suspension. The mild-hybrid system offered a smoother start/stop operation but did not significantly improve fuel efficiency.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey excelled in interior space and practicality, offering legible instrumentation, logical controls, and ample storage. The 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat was comfortable, with heated front seats and outboard mirrors standard in Canada. 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, expanding to 2,452 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum of 3,984 litres with the second-row seats removed. However, removing the second-row seats was cumbersome.

The 2022 BMW X3 provided seating for five adults, with a 40/20/40-split rear seat configuration. The cargo area was spacious enough for backpacks and additional luggage, with a power tailgate standard. The SensaTec faux-leather seats were comfortable, with the option to upgrade to Vernasca leather for added softness. The X3's interior featured improved ergonomics, with a redesigned centre console and a larger standard infotainment system. The bottom seat cushion could be extended for taller drivers, although the control handle could be intrusive for some. Overall, the X3 offered a well-thought-out interior with a focus on comfort and practicality.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey came equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, satellite radio, and more. Higher trims added navigation, a CabinWatch interior camera, and a CabinTalk PA system. The Touring trim included an 11-speaker premium audio system, wireless smartphone charging, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. However, the lack of a tuning knob and subpar voice-recognition technology were notable drawbacks. The rear-seat entertainment system included a 10.2-inch screen, Blu-Ray player, and streaming apps, though it was not a touchscreen.

The 2022 BMW X3 featured BMW Live Cockpit Plus with iDrive 7 telematics, including a 5.1-inch instrument panel and a 10.25-inch infotainment screen. Standard features included navigation, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, and more. An optional Live Cockpit Professional offered larger 12.3-inch screens and cloud-based navigation. The X3's 12-speaker HiFi sound system could be upgraded to a 16-speaker Harman Kardon surround sound system. Additional tech options included a panoramic sunroof, lumbar support, and gesture control, providing a comprehensive multimedia experience.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey featured Honda Sensing as standard, with expanded capabilities for 2021. It included adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, pedestrian braking, and road-sign recognition. The Odyssey earned top safety ratings from the NHTSA, with five stars in most categories and four stars for rollover resistance. The IIHS was expected to maintain its Top Safety Pick recommendation, thanks to the new LED headlights.

The 2022 BMW X3 received a five-star crash safety rating from the NHTSA. It included adaptive LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, active blind-spot monitoring, and more. Optional features included parking assistance, traffic jam assistance, and active lane-keep assist. The X3's comprehensive safety suite aimed to provide peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike.