2021 Honda Odyssey vs 2021 Mazda CX-5

The 2021 Honda Odyssey had a familiar look that was subtly updated for the new model year. It featured a new grille and front bumper, standard LED headlights with automatic high-beam operation across all trims, and a new gloss black spear with a chrome insert stretching the width of the taillights. New wheel designs debuted for the top three trim levels, modernizing the Odyssey by reducing brightwork. Buyers could choose from five trim levels: LX, EX, EX-L, Touring, and Elite, with base prices ranging from $31,790 to $47,820. The test vehicle, a Lunar Silver Metallic Elite trim, was priced at $48,940, including the destination charge. The Elite trim added perforated leather upholstery with contrast stitching and piping, new dashboard ambient lighting, and tri-color floor mats, giving the Odyssey a more upscale look and feel.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 took a different design approach, opting for smooth, sleek lines that made it look dynamic even when stationary. The base CX-5 Sport came with automatic on/off LED headlights, 17-inch gray metallic aluminum alloy wheels, a rear roof spoiler, and rain-sensing windshield wipers. The higher-tier Touring trim added rear privacy glass, leatherette seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, keyless entry, and more. The new-for-2021 Touring Preferred SV Package included a 10-speaker Bose sound system, leather seats, a power liftgate, and other premium features. The CX-5 Carbon Edition combined the Touring grade with the Preferred SV Package and added unique styling elements. The top-tier Signature model, which was the test vehicle, featured Caturra Brown Nappa leather seats, genuine wood trim, and a host of other premium touches, making it rival offerings from luxury brands.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey was equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine and a ten-speed automatic transmission, delivering 280 horsepower to the front wheels. The drivetrain included Normal, Sport, Econ, and Snow driving modes, along with paddle shifters. The V6 engine featured variable cylinder management for improved fuel efficiency, achieving an EPA rating of 22 mpg combined. However, the lack of all-wheel drive (AWD) put the Odyssey at a disadvantage in snowy regions. The new electronic brake booster improved brake pedal feel and response, and the adaptive cruise control gained stop-and-go low-speed following capability. The Odyssey's ride and handling were enjoyable, with well-weighted steering and firm but comfortable suspension. However, the brakes showed signs of fade during intense use, indicating a need for an upgrade.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options. The base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine produced 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive (FWD) was standard, with AWD available. The turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, available on higher trims, delivered 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. The most fuel-efficient version was the FWD model with the non-turbo engine, achieving 28 mpg combined. The turbo engine provided spirited performance, especially in Sport mode, but the stiff suspension could be uncomfortable on rough roads. The AWD system kept the CX-5 firmly planted, but the seats lacked adequate bolstering for spirited driving.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey offered a spacious and practical interior with legible instrumentation and logical controls. The 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat was comfortable, and the Elite trim added a heated steering wheel and heated and ventilated front seats. Storage space was excellent, with various compartments and shelves. The Magic Slide second-row seats provided versatile seating configurations, and the third-row seats were comfortable for both children and adults. Cargo space was generous, with 32.8 cubic feet behind the third row, 88.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 144.9 cubic feet with all seats removed. However, removing the second-row seats was cumbersome.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 had a well-executed design that fulfilled most family needs. The seating position and comfort level were typical for an SUV of its size, but rear legroom was limited. The climate controls were straightforward and easy to use. The larger shifter took up passenger space, and the infotainment system controls were not ideally positioned for shorter drivers. Cargo space was below average for the segment, with 30.9 cubic feet behind the second row and 59.6 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. A power liftgate was available.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey, starting with the EX trim, featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, HD Radio, text-messaging support, basic HondaLink connectivity, and a Cabin Control smartphone app. The Touring trim added navigation, HondaLink subscription services, WiFi capability, a CabinWatch interior camera, and a CabinTalk in-vehicle PA system. The Elite trim included an 11-speaker premium sound system and wireless smartphone charging. However, the lack of a tuning knob and subpar voice-recognition technology were drawbacks. The rear-seat entertainment system included a 10.2-inch screen, Blu-Ray player, and streaming apps, but the lack of a touchscreen disappointed some users.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 came standard with a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen. While the screen size was impressive, the operating system was not user-friendly, and the information presented was not modern. The lack of tuning knobs made it difficult to switch between radio stations, though volume control was easy via the steering wheel or center console. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, providing a workaround for the infotainment system's shortcomings.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey improved its safety features with the standard inclusion of Honda Sensing on all trims. The system included adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, pedestrian braking, road-sign recognition, and a new Honda Sensing menu button. The Odyssey earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, with the exception of a four-star rating for rollover resistance. However, the adaptive cruise control could apply uneven braking, and the lane-departure warning system's steering wheel wobble was less effective than a vibration.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 came with a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and more. Optional features included a head-up display, reverse automatic emergency braking, and a surround-view camera system. The CX-5 earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. However, the traffic sign recognition technology was often slow and inaccurate.