2021 Honda Odyssey vs 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan

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 across all trims, and a gloss black spear with a chrome insert stretching across the taillights. New wheel designs were introduced for the top three trims, enhancing the Odyssey's aesthetic appeal. The minivan was available in five trim levels, 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, making it a more upscale option.

In contrast, the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan boasted clean lines and balanced proportions, offering a conservative yet timeless design. Its understated styling was appreciated for its potential to age gracefully. The Tiguan was notably large for its class, providing a roomy interior comparable to larger SUVs like the Hyundai Santa Fe. It offered ample space for four passengers, with an optional third-row seat expanding capacity to seven, though best suited for children. The interior featured modern geometric forms and a no-nonsense control layout, with shiny detailing and a flush touchscreen display. However, the use of hard plastics and flimsy steering wheel stalks detracted from its premium feel. The Tiguan was available in S, SE, and SEL trims, with prices ranging from $25,245 to $39,095, excluding destination charges.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower, paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission. This combination delivered smooth and effortless power, with driving modes including Normal, Sport, Econ, and Snow. The Odyssey's fuel-saving variable cylinder management technology contributed to an EPA rating of 22 mpg in combined driving, with a tested average of 21.8 mpg. However, the lack of all-wheel drive (AWD) 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. However, the brakes showed signs of fade under heavy use, indicating a need for improvement.

The 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine generating 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission sent power to the front wheels, with AWD available as an option. The Tiguan's powertrain was adequate but suffered from turbo lag, making it feel breathless during acceleration. The EPA rated the Tiguan at 25 mpg in combined driving with FWD and 24 mpg with AWD, with a tested average of 22.6 mpg. Despite its powertrain limitations, the Tiguan offered a pleasurable driving experience with light steering, a compliant ride, and refined braking. However, its suspension struggled with sharper bumps, and the tires lacked grip in corners.

Inside the 2021 Honda Odyssey, drivers enjoyed legible instrumentation, logical controls, and ample storage. The 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat, standard in all but the base trim, provided comfort and support. The Elite trim added a heated steering wheel and heated and ventilated front seats. The Odyssey's Magic Slide second-row seat layout offered versatile seating configurations, while the third-row seats accommodated both children and adults. Cargo space was generous, with 32.8 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 144.9 cubic feet with seats removed. However, removing the second-row seats was cumbersome.

The 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan prioritized comfort with easy entry and exit, adjustable front seats, and perforated V-Tex leatherette upholstery. The back seat offered excellent support and legroom, with air conditioning vents and USB ports for passengers. A panoramic sunroof was available, enhancing the cabin experience. Storage space was limited, but the 40/20/40-split folding rear seat allowed for flexible cargo arrangements. Cargo volume ranged from 33 to 37.6 cubic feet behind the second row, depending on the presence of a third-row seat, with a maximum capacity of 73.5 cubic feet.

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 Odyssey also offered HondaLink subscription services for added convenience and safety.

The 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan introduced the MIB3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a range of connected services. While the system was an improvement, it had quirks, and the standard six-speaker sound system struggled with bass-heavy music. The SEL Premium R-Line trim offered a nine-speaker Fender audio system and Volkswagen Digital Cockpit instrumentation.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey came with Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced driving assistance systems, as standard. It included adaptive cruise control, pedestrian braking, and road-sign recognition. The Odyssey earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, with improvements in LED headlights and ADAS capabilities.

The 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan featured IQ Drive, offering forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and more. Adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist were available on higher trims. The Tiguan's safety features were effective, though some systems had minor inconsistencies. The Tiguan earned a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS in certain trims.