2021 Dodge Durango vs 2021 Honda Odyssey

The 2021 Honda Odyssey presented a familiar design with 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. The Elite trim, in particular, featured perforated leather upholstery with contrast stitching and piping, along with new dashboard ambient lighting, elevating the minivan's interior to a more luxurious level. Despite these updates, the Odyssey maintained its reputation as a practical and stylish family vehicle.

In contrast, the 2021 Dodge Durango retained its muscular stance and athletic styling, aligning with the Dodge family of vehicles. The Durango's exterior design remained largely unchanged since its third generation debut in 2011, but the 2021 model year brought revisions, especially evident in the new SRT Hellcat model. This variant featured a cold-air scoop, twin-pipe exhaust, LED headlamps, a rear spoiler, and a distinct front end. The Durango offered a variety of wheel options and a choice of 11 exterior colors, allowing for personalization. Inside, the Durango's cabin received updates, including a new instrument panel and the introduction of the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, enhancing its modern appeal.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey was equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission, delivering 280 horsepower to the front wheels. This combination provided smooth and effortless power, complemented by variable cylinder management for improved fuel efficiency. The Odyssey achieved an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in combined driving, with a tested average of 21.8 mpg. However, the lack of all-wheel drive (AWD) put the Odyssey at a disadvantage in regions with frequent snow and ice. The 2021 model introduced an electronic brake booster, enhancing the adaptive cruise control's low-speed following capability and improving brake pedal feel. While the Odyssey offered a pleasurable driving experience with well-weighted steering and firm yet comfortable ride quality, the brakes showed signs of fade under heavy use, indicating a need for an upgrade.

The 2021 Dodge Durango offered a range of engine options, including a 3.6-liter V6, 5.7-liter HEMI V8, 392 HEMI V8, and a supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8. Each engine was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, with rear-wheel drive standard and all-wheel drive optional. The V6 engine produced up to 295 horsepower, while the 5.7-liter V8 delivered 360 horsepower. The 392 HEMI V8 offered 475 horsepower, and the supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8 in the SRT Hellcat model boasted an impressive 710 horsepower. The Durango's steering provided a connected feel, but the chassis showed its age, with a suspension that transmitted bumps to the cabin. Despite this, the Durango's braking system, particularly in the Hellcat model, proved effective even under track conditions. The R/T trim offered a Tow N Go Package, enhancing towing capabilities with a maximum capacity of 8,700 pounds.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey offered a well-designed interior with legible instrumentation and logical controls. The absence of a tuning knob for the stereo was a minor inconvenience, and the transmission gear buttons required careful attention. The Odyssey provided a comfortable driving experience with a 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat, heated steering wheel, and heated and ventilated front seats in the Elite trim. The Magic Slide second-row seat layout allowed for versatile seating configurations, accommodating up to eight passengers. 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 a cumbersome task.

The 2021 Dodge Durango excelled as a family hauler, offering comfortable seating and ample storage space. It accommodated up to seven passengers across three rows, with a spacious third row that was easy to access. The Durango provided 21 seat options, allowing for customization. Cargo space was average for its class, but the Durango's fit and finish had improved significantly over the years. The SUV's midsize packaging made it a versatile choice for families, balancing athletic design with practicality.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system starting with the EX trim, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, and more. Touring trim added navigation, WiFi capability, and a CabinWatch interior camera. Elite trim included an 11-speaker premium sound system and wireless smartphone charging. HondaLink subscription plans provided additional features, but the lack of a tuning knob and subpar voice-recognition technology were drawbacks. The rear-seat entertainment system included a 10.2-inch screen and streaming apps, though it lacked a touchscreen interface.

The 2021 Dodge Durango came with an 8.4-inch touchscreen on lower trims, while higher trims received a 10.1-inch screen with the Uconnect 5 system. This system offered faster performance, user profiles, and connected services, including Amazon Alexa and wireless smartphone integration. The family entertainment system included Blu-ray and DVD players with dual 9-inch screens. The Durango's infotainment system was user-friendly, but the analog speedometer's design made it difficult to read. The TomTom navigation system was a standout feature, providing clear graphics and quick responses.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey improved its safety features with the standard inclusion of Honda Sensing on all trims. This suite of advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) included adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, pedestrian braking, and road-sign recognition. The Odyssey's ADAS performed accurately, though the adaptive cruise control could be smoother. The Odyssey earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, with a four-star rollover rating.

The 2021 Dodge Durango lagged behind its competitors in safety features, offering only a rearview camera as standard. Optional safety features included adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Durango received a five-star side crash-test rating and a four-star rollover rating from the NHTSA, but its front crash testing ratings were pending.