2020 Mazda CX-30 vs 2021 Honda Odyssey

The 2020 Mazda CX-30 had a design that was both praised and critiqued. While its overall styling was considered attractive, the excessive gray plastic cladding around its lower perimeter detracted from its appeal, making the 18-inch wheels appear undersized. This design choice gave the CX-30 a look as if it was perpetually on a lift, waiting for service. Despite this, the interior was lauded for its luxurious feel, especially above the cabin's midpoint, where soft-touch materials were prevalent. Below that, hard plastics were more common, but given the vehicle's price point, this was expected. The CX-30's pricing started at $21,900, with various trims offering additional features and upgrades, such as the Premium AWD model, which included a navigation system and other amenities, bringing the total to $32,120.

In contrast, the 2021 Honda Odyssey maintained a familiar look with subtle updates to modernize its appearance. The new grille, front bumper, and LED headlights with automatic high-beam operation were among the changes. The Odyssey's design tweaks aimed to reduce brightwork, giving it a more contemporary look. Available in five trim levels, the Odyssey's pricing ranged from $31,790 to $47,820, excluding destination charges. The Elite trim, priced at $48,940, featured perforated leather upholstery, ambient lighting, and new 19-inch wheels, enhancing its upscale appeal. The Odyssey's interior improvements, including seating material upgrades and tri-color floor mats, contributed to its reputation as a luxurious minivan.

The 2020 Mazda CX-30 was powered by a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, delivering 186 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. Despite its competitive power figures, the CX-30's weight of 3,408 pounds and lack of a turbocharged engine option limited its performance, especially at higher altitudes. The 6-speed sport automatic transmission, however, was praised for maximizing the engine's potential, with paddle shifters included in the Premium trim. The CX-30's AWD system offered off-road traction assist, but its 8 inches of ground clearance suggested limited off-roading capabilities. While the CX-30's driving dynamics were less sporty compared to the Mazda3, it ranked highly among small SUVs for its handling and steering precision. Fuel economy was a concern, with an average of 23.9 mpg during testing, and a smaller gas tank reduced its driving range.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission, producing 280 horsepower. This combination provided smooth and effortless power delivery, with driving modes such as Normal, Sport, Econ, and Snow. The Odyssey's fuel-saving variable cylinder management technology contributed to an average of 21.8 mpg during testing. While AWD was unavailable, the Odyssey's FWD setup was complemented by a new electronic brake booster, enhancing brake pedal feel and response. The Odyssey's ride and handling were well-balanced, with firm yet comfortable suspension tuning. However, the brakes showed signs of fade during intense use, indicating a need for improvement given the vehicle's passenger and cargo capacity.

The 2020 Mazda CX-30 offered ease of entry and exit due to its higher ground clearance compared to the Mazda3. Inside, the CX-30's interior was noted for its upscale appearance, with soft padding on the center console and door armrests. The driving position was excellent, with large analog gauges for easy reference. Cloth seating was standard, with simulated leather and genuine leather available in higher trims. The rear seat was cramped, with limited legroom, making it suitable for children or shorter adults. Cargo space was also limited, with 20.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 45.2 cubic feet with them folded, placing it closer to the subcompact segment.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey excelled in interior space and storage, with logical controls and ample storage options. The driver's seat offered 12-way power adjustment, with heated and ventilated front seats available in the Elite trim. The Odyssey's 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 32.8 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 88.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 144.9 cubic feet with the second-row seats removed. However, removing the second-row seats was cumbersome, despite improvements in their fold-flat design.

The 2020 Mazda CX-30's technology offerings were straightforward, with an 8.8-inch display integrated into the dashboard. The lack of a touchscreen aimed to improve driver focus, but the system's controls were not always intuitive. Standard features included Bluetooth, HD Radio, and Mazda Connected Services, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto available in higher trims. The Premium trim added a 12-speaker Bose sound system and a head-up display.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey's technology suite was extensive, starting with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system in the EX trim. Features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Cabin Control app. Touring and Elite trims added navigation, WiFi, CabinWatch, and CabinTalk systems. The Elite trim featured an 11-speaker premium sound system and wireless smartphone charging. HondaLink subscription plans offered additional connectivity and safety features. However, the lack of a tuning knob and limited voice-recognition capabilities were drawbacks. The rear-seat entertainment system included a 10.2-inch screen and streaming apps, though it was not a touchscreen.

The 2020 Mazda CX-30 boasted a comprehensive suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assistance. The Select trim added blind-spot and rear cross-traffic warnings, while the Premium trim offered adaptive front lights. The CX-30 received a 5-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS with Premium trim.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey improved its safety features with standard Honda Sensing, which included adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, pedestrian braking, and road-sign recognition. The EX trim added blind-spot and rear cross-traffic warnings. The Odyssey maintained its top safety ratings from the NHTSA and was expected to earn a Top Safety Pick recommendation from the IIHS.