2021 Lexus RX vs 2021 Honda Odyssey

The 2021 Honda Odyssey presented a familiar yet refreshed appearance, with updates to its grille and front bumper, and standard LED headlights across all trims. The addition of a gloss black spear with a chrome insert and new wheel designs for the top trims modernized its look. 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, featured perforated leather upholstery, ambient lighting, and new tri-color floor mats, enhancing its upscale appeal. The Odyssey Elite, with its 19-inch wheels and toned-down chrome, aimed to position itself as a luxurious minivan option.

The 2021 Lexus RX showcased the brand's modern design aesthetic with its large grille, angular headlamps, and floating roof. It was available in five variants, including the RX, RX F Sport, RXL, RX Hybrid, and RXL Hybrid. The RX F Sport was the most performance-focused, while the RXL models offered extended bodies with a third row. The RX retained its 2020 design updates, including elongated headlights and a refined front end. Standard features included 18-inch aluminum wheels, LED lighting, and privacy glass, with available upgrades like 20-inch wheels and triple-beam LED headlights. The interior boasted standard NuLuxe-trimmed seats and power-adjustable front seats, with available semi-aniline leather and sport seats.

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 driving modes such as Normal, Sport, Econ, and Snow, along with paddle shifters. The Odyssey's V6 engine featured variable cylinder management for improved fuel efficiency, achieving an EPA rating of 22 mpg combined. However, it lacked all-wheel drive, which was a disadvantage compared to competitors. The Odyssey's ride and handling were enjoyable, with well-weighted steering and firm yet comfortable suspension. The brakes, though improved, showed signs of fade under heavy use.

The 2021 Lexus RX, RXL, and RX F-Sport were equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The RX 350 achieved 23 mpg combined, while the RXL with AWD managed 21 mpg. The RX Hybrid models, with a combined output of 308 hp, offered better fuel efficiency, achieving up to 31 mpg in the city. The RX's suspension and handling were refined, providing a comfortable and dynamic driving experience. The F Sport Handling package added adaptive suspension and sport seats, enhancing the driving experience. The RX accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 7.7 to 7.9 seconds, depending on the drivetrain.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey offered a spacious and functional interior with logical controls and ample storage. The driver's seat was comfortable and adjustable, though the front passenger seat lacked height adjustment. The Odyssey featured Honda's Magic Slide second-row seat layout, allowing for versatile seating configurations. Cargo space was generous, with 32.8 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 144.9 cubic feet with seats removed. However, removing the second-row seats was cumbersome.

The 2021 Lexus RX provided a functional interior with seating for five in the two-row models and up to seven in the RXL variants. Front and second-row seats offered ample space, while the third row was tight. Cargo space in the RX was limited, with 18.4 cubic feet behind the second row and 56.3 cubic feet with seats folded. The RXL offered 7.5 cubic feet behind the third row and 58.5 cubic feet with seats folded. A power liftgate was standard, with a hands-free option available.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey, starting with the EX trim, featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and more. Touring trim added navigation, WiFi, and a CabinWatch interior camera. Elite trim included an 11-speaker premium sound system and wireless charging. HondaLink subscription services offered additional features like remote operation and concierge services. However, the lack of a tuning knob and limited voice-recognition technology were drawbacks. The rear-seat entertainment system included a 10.2-inch screen and streaming apps.

The 2021 Lexus RX came standard with dual-zone climate control, an 8-inch touchscreen, and connectivity features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Upgrades included a 12.3-inch screen, wireless charging, and a Mark Levinson sound system. The infotainment system, while functional, was not the most user-friendly. The Remote Touch controller offered an alternative to touchscreen interaction but took up console space. The RX lacked wireless smartphone integration, which might be a consideration for tech-savvy buyers.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey improved its safety features with standard Honda Sensing on all trims, including adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, pedestrian braking, and road-sign recognition. The Odyssey was expected to maintain its top safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA, with five-star ratings in most categories.

The 2021 Lexus RX received a Top Safety Pick designation from IIHS, with Good marks in crashworthiness tests. The RX 350, RX 350L, and RX 450h received four out of five stars overall from NHTSA. Standard safety features included 10 airbags, blind-spot monitoring, and Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, which offered a suite of driver-assist technologies. However, the RX lacked more advanced hands-off driving features found in some competitors.