2021 Honda Odyssey vs 2021 BMW X5

The 2021 Honda Odyssey presented a familiar design with subtle updates to modernize its appearance. It featured a new grille and front bumper, standard LED headlights with automatic high-beam operation, and a gloss black spear with a chrome insert across the taillights. New wheel designs were introduced for the top trims, enhancing its aesthetic appeal. The Odyssey was available in five trims, with prices ranging from $31,790 to $47,820, excluding destination charges. The Elite trim, priced at $48,940, offered a luxurious interior with perforated leather upholstery, ambient lighting, and improved seating materials. The Odyssey Elite's 19-inch wheels and reduced chrome accents brought it closer to being the Acura of minivans.

The 2021 BMW X5 maintained its signature BMW design, with a recognizable kidney grille and body shape. It featured full adaptive LED headlights and various trim options, including the sporty M Sport styling. The X5 offered a range of wheel sizes from 19 to 22 inches, depending on the trim. Inside, the X5's interior was consistent with BMW's design language, using parts from the brand's bin. While there was an abundance of black plastic, the cabin also included leather and soft-touch materials. The M Sport models had unique styling elements, such as an M sports steering wheel and exclusive interior trim strips, adding to its sporty appeal.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower, paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission. It offered smooth power delivery and included variable cylinder management for improved fuel efficiency, achieving an EPA-estimated 22 mpg combined. However, the lack of all-wheel drive put it at a disadvantage in snowy regions. The Odyssey's ride and handling were enjoyable, with well-weighted steering and firm yet comfortable suspension. The brakes, though improved, struggled under heavy use, especially in hot conditions.

The 2021 BMW X5 offered multiple powertrain options, all paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base X5 sDrive40i/xDrive40i featured a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with 335 horsepower, while the X5 M50i boasted a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 with 523 horsepower. The X5 M delivered up to 617 horsepower with the Competition Package. The X5 xDrive45e plug-in hybrid achieved 389 horsepower and offered up to 30 miles of all-electric range. The X5's steering dynamics were less engaging than expected, with issues at both low and high speeds. However, the cabin remained quiet, and the suspension absorbed road imperfections well.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey provided ample interior space with logical controls and storage options. The driver's seat was comfortable and adjustable, while the Elite trim added heated and ventilated front seats. The Magic Slide second-row seats offered versatile configurations, and the third-row seats accommodated adults comfortably. Cargo space was generous, with up to 144.9 cubic feet available, though removing the second-row seats was cumbersome.

The 2021 BMW X5 made efficient use of space, with comfortable seating for short trips. The rear seats were spacious, and an optional third row was available. The split liftgate and vehicle height adjustment made loading cargo easier. However, the second-row doors did not open wide, complicating access. The X5 xDrive45e offered slightly less cargo space due to its battery.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey, starting with the EX trim, featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and more. Touring and Elite trims added navigation, WiFi, and a rear-seat entertainment system. However, the lack of a tuning knob and subpar voice recognition were drawbacks. The HondaLink subscription services offered various connectivity and safety features.

The 2021 BMW X5 came with a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The standard features included a 10-speaker sound system, navigation, and a panoramic moonroof. Optional upgrades included a head-up display, premium audio systems, and more. The iDrive system required some acclimation but was user-friendly once familiar.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey improved its safety with standard Honda Sensing, which included adaptive cruise control, pedestrian braking, and road-sign recognition. The Odyssey earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover resistance rating. The ADAS worked accurately but could be smoother in operation.

The 2021 BMW X5 came with a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and more. However, the Driving Assistance Professional Package had issues with adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping, especially in bright sunlight or rain. The X5 received mostly Good ratings from the IIHS but had a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.