2021 Honda Odyssey vs 2020 Buick Encore GX

The 2020 Buick Encore GX presented a more mature and refined appearance compared to its predecessor, the Encore. It was slightly larger in every dimension, with a longer wheelbase and a wider track, which contributed to its more complete and sophisticated look. The exterior styling was notably revised, featuring a larger grille, updated headlights, and a reworked rear end. Inside, the cabin echoed this mature styling with a focus on care, style, and fit and finish, offering a nicer feel than some of its competitors like the Hyundai Kona.

In contrast, the 2021 Honda Odyssey maintained a familiar look with minor tweaks to modernize its appearance. The new model year introduced a redesigned grille and front bumper, standard LED headlights, and a new gloss black spear with a chrome insert across the taillights. These updates aimed to reduce brightwork and give the Odyssey a more contemporary look. The interior of the Odyssey, especially in the Elite trim, was upgraded with perforated leather upholstery, ambient lighting, and improved seating materials, enhancing its upscale feel.

The 2020 Buick Encore GX came standard with a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine, producing 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) for front-wheel drive. Our test model featured the optional 1.3-liter turbocharged engine, delivering 155 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque, with the option for all-wheel drive (AWD) through a nine-speed automatic transmission. Despite its solid power, the engine felt underwhelming at low speeds, though it provided a smooth driving experience with responsive steering and composed handling at higher speeds.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey was equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine and a ten-speed automatic transmission, generating 280 horsepower. This combination offered smooth and effortless power delivery, with driving modes including Normal, Sport, Econ, and Snow. The Odyssey's V6 engine featured variable cylinder management for improved fuel efficiency, achieving an average of 21.8 mpg in testing. While AWD was unavailable, the Odyssey's front-wheel-drive system was complemented by a new electronic brake booster, enhancing brake pedal feel and response. The Odyssey's ride and handling were enjoyable, with well-managed body motions and firm yet comfortable suspension.

The 2020 Buick Encore GX offered increased space, particularly in the rear seats and cargo area. With the rear seats up, it provided 23.5 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 50.2 cubic feet with the seats folded. This was more than the standard Encore and comparable to other SUVs in its class. The interior featured practical storage solutions, including deep in-door cubbies and a reconfigured center console for added convenience.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey excelled in interior space and versatility, with a 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat and Honda's Magic Slide second-row seat layout. This allowed for various seating configurations, enhancing passenger comfort and accessibility. Cargo space was generous, with 32.8 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 144.9 cubic feet with the seats removed. However, removing the second-row seats was cumbersome, despite improvements in their foldability.

The 2020 Buick Encore GX came with GM's latest touchscreen infotainment system, featuring a user-friendly interface, crisp graphics, and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Optional features included a wireless charging pad, navigation, and a head-up display, though the latter was projected via a small plastic display rather than directly onto the windshield.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey offered an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system starting with the EX trim, including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Cabin Control app. Higher trims added features like navigation, WiFi capability, and a rear-seat entertainment system. However, the lack of a tuning knob and subpar voice-recognition technology were notable drawbacks. The Odyssey's technology suite was extensive, with subscription-based HondaLink services and a CabinWatch interior camera for monitoring rear-seat passengers.

The 2020 Buick Encore GX was equipped with standard safety features such as forward-collision alert, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring and a surround-view camera system, enhancing parking and maneuvering capabilities. The Encore GX also featured the Teen Driver System for added safety.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey improved its safety offerings with the standard Honda Sensing suite, which included adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, pedestrian braking, and road-sign recognition. The Odyssey's ADAS worked accurately, though not always smoothly. It received top safety ratings from the NHTSA, with the expectation of maintaining its IIHS Top Safety Pick status.