2021 Honda Odyssey vs 2022 INFINITI QX80

The 2021 Honda Odyssey presented a familiar yet refreshed appearance, with subtle updates to its styling. The new grille and front bumper, along with standard LED headlights across all trims, gave it a modern touch. The addition of a gloss black spear with a chrome insert across the taillights and new wheel designs for the top trims further enhanced its look. These changes aimed to reduce the brightwork and give the Odyssey a more contemporary feel. The interior of the Odyssey Elite trim was notably upscale, featuring perforated leather upholstery with contrast stitching and ambient lighting, making it a more luxurious option within the minivan segment.

In contrast, the 2022 INFINITI QX80 shared its platform with the Nissan Armada, yet it maintained a distinct identity with its unique front-end styling, highlighted by the signature Infiniti grille. The tasteful integration of LED lighting and conservative use of chrome added to its upscale appearance. The QX80's 22-inch dark chrome alloy wheels further elevated its exterior appeal. Inside, the QX80's cabin was adorned with upscale materials, including quilted semi-aniline leather seats and wood trim. However, despite these luxurious touches, the interior design felt somewhat dated compared to its competitors in the premium full-size SUV market.

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 provided smooth and effortless power delivery, with driving modes such as 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, though our tests averaged slightly lower at 21.8 mpg. While the Odyssey lacked all-wheel drive, it featured a new electronic brake booster for improved brake pedal feel and adaptive cruise control capabilities. The Odyssey's ride and handling were enjoyable, with well-managed body motions and firm yet comfortable suspension. However, the brakes showed signs of fade under heavy use, indicating a need for an upgrade.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 boasted a robust 400-horsepower, 5.6-liter V8 engine with 413 lb-ft of torque, delivering impressive performance and a satisfying exhaust note. The seven-speed automatic transmission provided smooth and seamless shifts, enhancing the driving experience. The QX80's off-road capabilities were notable, with a computer-controlled transfer case and ample ground clearance. Its towing capacity of 8,500 pounds was generous for its class. Despite its size, the QX80 managed body lean well, thanks to the Hydraulic Body Motion Control system. However, its fuel consumption was high, and premium fuel was recommended.

Inside the 2021 Honda Odyssey, drivers enjoyed legible instrumentation, logical controls, and ample storage space. The 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat, heated steering wheel, and ventilated front seats in the Elite trim added to the comfort. The Magic Slide second-row seat layout offered versatile seating configurations, while the third-row seats provided adequate space for both children and adults. Cargo space was generous, with a maximum volume of 144.9 cubic feet, though removing the second-row seats was necessary for full capacity.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 required a climb to enter due to its tall ride height, but once inside, it offered a spacious and airy cabin. The front seats provided good head- and legroom, while the optional second-row bench seat allowed for up to eight passengers. However, the third-row seating was cramped for adults. Cargo space was limited compared to competitors, with a maximum of 95.1 cubic feet. The power-operated liftgate and third-row seats were convenient but slow to operate.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey's EX trim and above featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and more. Touring and Elite trims added navigation, WiFi capability, and a rear-seat entertainment system. However, the lack of a tuning knob and subpar voice-recognition technology were drawbacks. The HondaLink subscription services offered various connectivity and safety features, enhancing the overall tech experience.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 came with a new 12.3-inch Infiniti InTouch display, offering Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Bose premium sound system and wireless smartphone charger were standard, while the dual-screen rear entertainment system provided additional entertainment options. However, the absence of Infiniti's ProPilot Assist was notable, limiting advanced driving assistance features.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey improved its safety features with the standard Honda Sensing suite, including adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, pedestrian braking, and road-sign recognition. The Odyssey earned top safety ratings from the NHTSA and was expected to maintain its IIHS Top Safety Pick status.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 offered a comprehensive set of standard safety features, including forward automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. However, its NHTSA ratings were limited, with a three-star rating for rollover resistance. The QX80's overall crash protection was rated at four stars for the 2021 model.