2021 Honda Odyssey vs 2021 Honda Pilot

The 2021 Honda Odyssey underwent minor aesthetic updates, refining its already familiar silhouette. The front end featured a redesigned grille and bumper, coupled with LED headlights that were standard across all trims, enhancing its night-time appeal. To complement these tweaks, a new chrome-trimmed gloss black spear across the taillights and updated wheel designs for the higher trims modernized its appearance, subtly shifting away from extensive chrome use to offer a classier, subdued aesthetic. Inside, the Odyssey Elite, our test model, boasted features like perforated leather seats and ambient lighting, elevating the minivan to luxury levels. Conversely, the 2021 Honda Pilot maintained its rugged stance, underscored by the 2020 Black Edition and a continuation of the design theme meant to imbue a more robust demeanor. It offered multiple trims, from the base LX to the sleek Black Edition, now available in a new Platinum White Pearl option. However, the design did not universally appeal, and the interior felt more utilitarian than luxurious. The Black Edition did attempt to inject exclusivity with features like exclusive black leather seats and red ambient lighting, yet it struggled to shake off a minivan-like front-seat experience and a rather uninspiring exterior.

Both vehicles shared the 3.5-liter V6 engine, though their transmissions differed slightly. The Odyssey was paired with a ten-speed automatic, featuring a variety of driving modes and paddle shifters. It delivered smooth acceleration and a pleasant driving experience, with an EPA-estimated fuel economy of around 22 mpg. Notably, the Odyssey lacked all-wheel drive, which could be a limitation in snowy conditions. The Pilot, equipped with a nine-speed automatic and available torque-vectoring all-wheel drive, offered lively handling and an engaging ride, thanks in part to its Intelligent Traction Management system. This option added versatility across various terrains, a stark contrast to the Odyssey. Fuel efficiency was comparable, also standing at about 22 mpg with AWD, with the Pilots' driving dynamics slightly edging out due to its more involved handling capabilities.

Inside, both vehicles provided a plethora of features catered toward family convenience and comfort. The Odyssey shined with its innovative Magic Slide second-row seats enhancing versatility, and ample cargo space reaching up to 144.9 cubic feet with seats adjusted. It retained a practical layout, though removing the seats for maximum cargo proved cumbersome. The Pilot positioned itself as a functional family SUV with less cargo space at a maximum of 83.9 cubic feet but included a variety of seating configurations for up to eight passengers. It favored fixed third-row seating, which reduced flexibility compared to the Odyssey, but benefited from increased simplicity in layout adjustments.

Technology in the Odyssey was comprehensive, starting from the EX trim with an 8-inch touchscreen that connected occupants through various digital mediums and offered advanced navigation and a rear-seat entertainment system in higher trims like the Touring and Elite. HondaLink provided ample connectivity and security options, enhancing passenger engagement throughout the ride. The Pilot’s technology offerings were also robust though somewhat limited unless stepping up to higher trims. The standard setup included essential connectivity features, and advanced options such as a rear-seat entertainment system appeared in the Touring trim. The interface and system functionality remained straightforward, focusing on delivering basics rather than luxury.

Both models showcased Honda’s commitment to safety. The Odyssey came equipped with Honda Sensing across all trims, which expanded its capabilities for 2021, and its solid construction was anticipated to sustain high safety ratings from major organizations. The Pilot, featuring the same safety suite, performed admirably in crash tests and included additional driver-assist features from the EX trim upwards.