2022 Honda Odyssey vs 2021 Acura RDX

The 2021 Acura RDX, especially with the optional A-Spec Package, was a stylish SUV. Its subtle yet effective design changes conveyed sportiness without overpromising on performance. Acura avoided making the RDX look like an off-roader, focusing instead on daily driving and road-tripping capabilities. The A-Spec Package added sporty interior features like front sport seats with simulated suede inserts, a sport steering wheel, and unique gauges, though the red markings on a brushed silver background were hard to read.

In contrast, the 2022 Honda Odyssey had a more practical design, ideal for families. Its sliding side doors made loading children easy, and the third-row seat was comfortable for adults. The Odyssey's design included dramatic hockey-stick character lines and dark gray 19-inch aluminum wheels on the Elite trim. The interior featured quality materials, a low console, and plenty of storage space. The Odyssey's Magic Slide second-row seats and comfortable third-row made it a versatile choice for family trips.

The 2021 Acura RDX featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. It came with a 10-speed automatic transmission and an optional SH-AWD system, which improved handling by delivering up to 70% of engine output to the rear wheels. The RDX offered driving modes like Snow, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+, which adjusted powertrain response, steering effort, and suspension firmness. The A-Spec model had exclusive 20-inch alloy wheels and performance tires, enhancing its sporty feel. However, it lacked adaptive dampers and rev-matching for the transmission.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey, on the other hand, had a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. It used a 10-speed automatic transmission with pushbutton controls and was front-wheel drive only. The Odyssey's EPA fuel economy estimate was 22 mpg in combined driving. While it lacked the hybrid options of its competitors, it offered a more enjoyable driving experience. However, repeated use of the brakes on downhill drives caused pedal vibration and an audible grumble. Despite this, the Odyssey was quick, responsive, and composed on various road types.

The 2021 Acura RDX, though a compact SUV, offered remarkable passenger and cargo space. The front seats were comfortable and adjustable, but the rear seats lacked leg support and had too much recline angle. Cargo volume was 29.5 cubic feet behind the rear seat, expanding to 58.9 cubic feet with the seats folded. The trunk had useful storage compartments, but overall storage space could be better.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey excelled in interior space and functionality. It featured quality leather seats, tri-zone climate control, and numerous storage options. The second-row Magic Slide seats allowed for flexible configurations, and the third-row seat was comfortable for adults. The Odyssey offered 32.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 88.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 144.9 cubic feet with the second row removed. This made it ideal for family trips and large cargo loads.

The 2021 Acura RDX introduced the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system, which used a touch-sensing pad instead of a touchscreen. While it mirrored the screen and was an improvement over similar systems, it still required a learning curve and could be distracting. The A-Spec trim included a 16-speaker Acura/ELS Studio 3D premium audio system, which sounded terrific.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey Elite was packed with technology but lagged behind competitors in rear-seat entertainment. Starting with the EX trim, it featured an 8-inch touchscreen, satellite radio, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Touring trim added navigation, WiFi hotspot, CabinWatch, and CabinTalk. The rear-seat entertainment system included a 10.2-inch display, but it was outdated. The Elite trim added an 11-speaker audio system and a wireless charging pad. Overall, the Odyssey's infotainment system needed a major upgrade.

The 2021 Acura RDX came with AcuraWatch, which included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, lane-departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. However, blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert were only available with the Technology Package. The RDX earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it received four stars for frontal-impact and rollover resistance.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey featured Honda Sensing as standard, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. It also had automatic high-beam headlights and a rear-seat reminder system. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available from the EX trim. The Odyssey earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.