2021 Chevrolet Suburban vs 2021 Honda Odyssey

The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban had a polarizing front-end design, borrowing heavily from the Camaro's design language. This resulted in small headlights and large, busy grilles that didn't favor the Suburban's massive frame. Despite the aggressive exterior, the interior remained familiar with controls in their usual places, making it user-friendly. The High Country trim, which we tested, featured upscale elements like woodgrain and leather but lacked the soft-touch materials found in true luxury SUVs.

In contrast, the 2021 Honda Odyssey maintained a familiar look with minor tweaks for modernization. The new grille, front bumper, and standard LED headlights with automatic high-beam operation gave it a refreshed appearance. The Elite trim, which we tested, featured perforated leather upholstery, ambient lighting, and new 19-inch wheels, making it closer to an upscale minivan. The interior was designed for comfort and practicality, with logical controls and ample storage space.

The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban offered three engine options: a 5.3-liter V8 with 355 horsepower, a 6.2-liter V8 with 420 horsepower, and a newly available 3.0-liter Duramax turbodiesel engine producing 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. The diesel engine provided excellent pickup and V8-level torque, making it suitable for both city driving and highway speeds. The Suburban's truck-based underpinnings were evident in its handling, with terrific brakes and a more compliant ride thanks to the new independent rear suspension. However, it still exhibited body-roll and was susceptible to crosswinds.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey was equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower, paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission. The drivetrain included Normal, Sport, Econ, and Snow driving modes, along with paddle shifters. The V6 engine provided smooth and effortless power, and the Odyssey averaged 21.8 mpg in combined driving. The new electronic brake booster improved brake pedal feel and response, while the adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow capability enhanced driving in heavy traffic. The Odyssey's ride and handling were enjoyable, with perfectly weighted steering and firm yet comfortable suspension.

The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban boasted massive cargo space, with 144.7 cubic feet available with the rear seats folded. Even with the second-row seats in use, it offered 93.8 cubic feet of cargo space, and 41.5 cubic feet behind the third row. The interior provided a commanding view of the road and ample head- and legroom for passengers. The control layout was similar to GM's pickup trucks, but the button shifter design was less intuitive. The power-sliding center console was a complex feature that added little value.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey excelled in interior space and storage. The Elite trim featured a 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The Magic Slide second-row seats offered versatile seating configurations, while the third-row seats accommodated both children and adults comfortably. Cargo space measured 32.8 cubic feet behind the third row, 88.8 cubic feet with the third row tumbled, and 144.9 cubic feet with all seats removed. However, removing the second-row seats was cumbersome.

The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban came standard with a 10.2-inch touchscreen running GM's intuitive infotainment system, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The available navigation system, rear entertainment system, and head-up display added convenience. The system's layout was sensible, and the home button provided easy navigation.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey, starting with EX trim, featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, and more. Touring trim added navigation, WiFi capability, CabinWatch, and CabinTalk. Elite trim included an 11-speaker premium sound system and wireless smartphone charging. The rear-seat entertainment system with a 10.2-inch screen and built-in streaming apps was available on Touring and Elite trims. However, the lack of a tuning knob and subpar voice-recognition technology were drawbacks.

The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban came equipped with automatic emergency braking, forward-collision avoidance with pedestrian detection, automatic high beams, and rear parking sensors. Optional safety features included adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and a surround-view camera system. Unique features like the rear-view camera mirror and Safety Alert Seat were also available.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey improved its safety with standard Honda Sensing on all trims, including adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, pedestrian braking, and road-sign recognition. The Odyssey earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, except for a four-star rating in rollover resistance. The EX trim and above included blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic warning.