2021 Honda HR-V vs 2022 Honda Odyssey

The 2021 Honda HR-V presented a softer and friendlier appearance compared to Honda's larger SUVs, which typically featured more traditional and intimidating designs. Its distinctive styling included unique window lines converging near the taillights, housing the rear door handles. Most trims came with 17-inch alloy wheels, while the Sport model boasted matte-black 18-inch wheels and blacked-out trim. The interior, though plain, was functional and well-constructed, with higher trims offering features like push-button start, automatic climate control, and leather upholstery.

In contrast, the 2022 Honda Odyssey, while adhering to the classic minivan design, offered a sense of style with its kinked sliding doors and dramatic character lines. The Elite trim featured dark gray 19-inch aluminum wheels, adding to its aesthetic appeal. The interior was designed with an open-concept layout, providing ample storage and easy access to controls. Despite its minivan identity, the Odyssey managed to maintain a stylish presence, especially in the higher trims.

The 2021 Honda HR-V was powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 141 horsepower and 127 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). While front-wheel drive was standard, all-wheel drive was available across all trims. However, the HR-V was often criticized for being underpowered, especially on highways, and the CVT was deemed ineffective. Despite this, the HR-V's chassis offered a rewarding driving experience on twisty roads, living up to Honda's reputation for fun cars. Its all-wheel-drive system was suitable for slippery roads but not for rough terrains, and it lacked towing capabilities.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey, on the other hand, featured a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, coupled with a 10-speed automatic transmission. While it lacked all-wheel drive and hybrid options, it offered a decent fuel economy of 22 mpg combined. The Odyssey was enjoyable to drive, with quick acceleration and responsive handling. However, its brakes tended to heat up during extended downhill driving, leading to pedal vibration. Despite this, the Odyssey remained a delightful vehicle to drive, offering a balance of performance and practicality.

The 2021 Honda HR-V excelled in cargo space for its size, thanks to the "Magic Seat" rear bench, offering up to 58.8 cubic feet of cargo space. It also provided ample rear-seat legroom, leading its segment in this category. While interior storage solutions were basic, the HR-V featured sensibly-designed controls, making it user-friendly.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey offered impressive interior space and versatility. Its Magic Slide second-row seats allowed for various configurations, enhancing passenger comfort and safety. The third-row seat was spacious enough for adults, and the cargo area behind it offered 32.8 cubic feet of space. Folding the third-row seat expanded the cargo space to 88.8 cubic feet, and removing the second-row seats provided a massive 144.9 cubic feet of cargo volume. The Odyssey's interior was designed for convenience, with numerous storage options and easy access to controls.

The 2021 Honda HR-V's base model came with basic tech features like Bluetooth and a 5-inch display. Higher trims offered a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but these features were not standard across all trims. The infotainment system was functional but lacked the sophistication of some competitors.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey Elite was equipped with advanced technology, including an 8-inch touchscreen, satellite radio, and smartphone connectivity. Higher trims featured CabinWatch and CabinTalk systems, enhancing passenger interaction. However, the infotainment system was considered outdated compared to rivals, with a small screen and limited voice command functionality. The Odyssey's technology package needed an upgrade to remain competitive.

The 2021 Honda HR-V received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, with Honda Sensing safety features available on higher trims. These included forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. However, its headlight ratings were less impressive, and the LATCH system received an "Acceptable" rating.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey came standard with Honda Sensing, offering a comprehensive suite of safety features. It received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. While the safety systems were effective, they sometimes lacked refinement, leading to abrupt responses. The Odyssey's safety features were designed to assist rather than replace the driver, emphasizing the importance of driver engagement.