2021 Honda Odyssey vs 2022 Toyota Sequoia

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. The interior received upgrades such as perforated leather upholstery with contrast stitching and piping, new dashboard ambient lighting, and tri-colour floor mats, contributing to a more upscale look and feel.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Sequoia continued its second generation into its 14th year, maintaining a mature design with modest updates. The Sequoia's exterior featured a modestly sized grille, elegant wheel arches, and unadorned body sides with straight lines, giving it a timeless appeal. Despite its age, the Sequoia's interior was well-constructed, with high-quality materials and tight seams, though it appeared dated compared to modern SUVs. The Nightshade Special Edition model, based on the Limited trim, showcased Toyota's efforts to keep the Sequoia relevant, though the interior design lagged behind contemporary trends.

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 including Normal, Sport, Eco, and Snow. The Odyssey's fuel efficiency was rated at 10.6 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, with an average of 10.8 L/100 km during testing. However, the lack of all-wheel drive put the Odyssey at a disadvantage in snowy conditions. The new electronic brake booster improved brake pedal feel and response, though the brakes showed signs of fade under heavy use.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia featured a 5.7-litre i-Force V8 engine, producing 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain offered durability and reliability, with a payload capacity of up to 608 kilograms and a towing capacity of 3,221 kilograms. The Sequoia's fuel consumption was rated at 18.5 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 16.4 combined. Despite its weight, the Sequoia provided a smooth and stable ride, with excellent off-road capabilities thanks to its body-on-frame construction and independent double-wishbone suspension.

Inside the 2021 Honda Odyssey, drivers enjoyed legible instrumentation, logical controls, and ample storage space. The 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat offered comfort, 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 and a maximum volume of 3,984 litres. However, removing the second-row seats to access maximum cargo space was cumbersome.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia prioritized passenger comfort, with spacious seating across all three rows and three-zone climate control. Heated front seats were standard, with heated rear seats available on the Platinum grade. The centre console and glove compartment offered ample storage, while the cargo compartment featured a 12-volt outlet. The Sequoia provided 535 litres of luggage space behind the third row, expanding to 1,886 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum of 3,401 litres with both rows flat.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey came equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and more. Higher trims added navigation, a CabinWatch interior camera, and a CabinTalk PA system. The Touring trim featured 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 lacked a touchscreen interface.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia's infotainment system was outdated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a clunky operating system. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with Bluetooth connectivity. The Platinum and TRD Pro trims added navigation and a 14-speaker JBL audio system. While the Sequoia's technology lagged behind competitors, Toyota updated the exterior lighting to LED and included a rear backup camera and parking sonar.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey featured Honda Sensing as standard, with expanded capabilities including low-speed follow, pedestrian braking, and road-sign recognition. The Odyssey earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, with a four-star score for rollover resistance. The adaptive cruise control and lane-departure warning systems were effective but could be smoother in operation.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia lacked crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, but it offered a comprehensive suite of safety features. Toyota Safety Sense P included pre-collision systems, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams. The STAR safety system provided stability control, traction control, and more. The Sequoia also featured a full complement of airbags and child safety features.