2021 Honda Odyssey vs 2021 Acura RDX

The 2021 Honda Odyssey, with its decade-old styling theme, received subtle updates to modernize its appearance. The new model year introduced a refreshed grille and front bumper, standard LED headlights with automatic high-beam operation across all trims, and a gloss black spear with a chrome insert stretching across the taillights. New wheel designs were also introduced for the top three trims, enhancing the Odyssey's aesthetic appeal. These minor modifications aimed to reduce brightwork and give the Odyssey a more contemporary look. The interior of the Odyssey Elite trim, in particular, was upgraded with perforated leather upholstery, contrast stitching, and ambient lighting, elevating its luxury quotient. The 19-inch wheels with Shark Gray paint and machined surfaces, along with the toned-down chrome, brought the Odyssey closer to being the Acura of minivans.

The 2021 Acura RDX, especially with the optional A-Spec Package, was a visually appealing SUV. Its styling changes were subtle yet effective, conveying a sporty demeanor without overpromising on performance. The RDX A-Spec avoided the rugged off-road look, focusing instead on daily driving and road-tripping capabilities. Positioned in the middle of the trim hierarchy, the RDX A-Spec offered a balance of style and functionality. The interior featured sport seats with simulated suede inserts, a sport steering wheel, and red ambient lighting, creating a sporty atmosphere. However, the gauge cluster with red markings on a brushed silver background was difficult to read, except at night. Despite this, the RDX A-Spec's interior delivered a sporty look and feel, with quality materials and a unique cabin design.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission, delivering 280 horsepower to the front wheels. This drivetrain, unchanged from the previous year, provided smooth and effortless power. The Odyssey's V6 engine featured variable cylinder management for improved fuel efficiency, achieving an EPA rating of 22 mpg in combined driving. However, the lack of all-wheel drive put the Odyssey at a disadvantage compared to competitors offering AWD. The 2021 model introduced an electronic brake booster, enhancing the adaptive cruise control's stop-and-go capability and improving brake pedal feel. While the Odyssey's ride and handling were enjoyable, the brakes struggled under heavy use, especially during a heatwave, indicating a need for a braking component upgrade.

The 2021 Acura RDX featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. The A-Spec Package did not enhance performance, but the SH-AWD system significantly improved handling. The RDX offered a 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and various driving modes, including Snow, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+. The A-Spec's exclusive 20-inch wheels and performance tires contributed to its handling prowess. However, the lack of adaptive dampers in the A-Spec resulted in noticeable body motion on uneven roads. Despite this, the RDX A-Spec was rewarding to drive, with precise steering, fade-resistant brakes, and an engaging engine sound in Sport+ mode. The RDX's performance was further enhanced by the SH-AWD system, making it a fun and capable SUV.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey offered a spacious and functional interior with legible instrumentation and logical controls. The driver's seat, adjustable in all but the base LX trim, provided comfort and support, while the Elite trim added heated and ventilated front seats. The Odyssey's Magic Slide second-row seat layout allowed for versatile seating configurations, accommodating passengers and cargo with ease. 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, detracting from the overall convenience.

The 2021 Acura RDX, despite being a compact SUV, offered impressive passenger and cargo space. The front seats, with 12-way power adjustment, were comfortable and supportive, especially in the A-Spec trim. However, rear-seat comfort was compromised by a low and flat cushion, resulting in a lack of leg support. Cargo space measured 29.5 cubic feet behind the rear seat, expanding to 58.9 cubic feet with the seats folded. The RDX also featured a deep storage well and additional compartments for organizing items. While the cargo volume was competitive, the RDX's packaging made it a practical choice for most tasks.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey, starting with the EX trim, featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and other connectivity options. Touring and Elite trims added 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 CabinWatch and CabinTalk features allowed for easy communication with rear-seat passengers, enhancing the overall experience.

The 2021 Acura RDX introduced the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system, which used a touch-sensing pad instead of a touchscreen. While the TTI mirrored the screen, it required a learning curve and could be distracting. The RDX offered smartphone projection, voice-recognition technology, and a premium audio system in the A-Spec trim. Despite the TTI's challenges, the RDX's technology package was comprehensive and user-friendly.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey improved its safety features with the standard Honda Sensing suite, including adaptive cruise control, pedestrian braking, and road-sign recognition. The Odyssey earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, with the exception of a four-star rollover resistance rating. The Odyssey's ADAS systems were accurate but could be smoother in operation.

The 2021 Acura RDX came equipped with AcuraWatch, offering adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, 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, with four-star ratings for frontal-impact and rollover resistance.