2021 Honda Odyssey vs 2022 Land Rover Range Rover

The 2021 Honda Odyssey presented a familiar design that had been subtly modernized for the new model year. It featured a refreshed 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 across the taillights. The top three trim levels introduced new wheel designs, contributing to a more contemporary appearance by minimizing brightwork. The Odyssey was available in five trim levels: LX, EX, EX-L, Touring, and Elite, with base prices ranging from $31,790 to $47,820, excluding destination charges. The Elite trim, priced at $48,940, included perforated leather upholstery with contrast stitching and piping, new dashboard ambient lighting, and handsome 19-inch wheels with Shark Gray paint and machined surfaces, elevating the Odyssey's interior to a more luxurious level.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover underwent an evolutionary redesign, maintaining its broad, rounded face and large expanses of unadorned sheet metal. The most noticeable change was at the rear, where the old square taillights were replaced with thin LED strips integrated into a darker trim element. The Range Rover emphasized its size, especially in the long-wheelbase version, which added eight inches in length. Inside, the cabin was simplified with fewer buttons and knobs, featuring a larger tablet-like touchscreen for a modern look. Premium leather and rich wood trim elements adorned the interior, exuding luxury. The Range Rover's solid feel and quiet cabin were notable, offering a refined experience that rivaled more expensive luxury SUVs like the Maybach or Bentley.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission, delivering 280 horsepower to the front wheels. It offered smooth and effortless power, with driving modes including Normal, Sport, Econ, and Snow, and paddle shifters for manual control. The Odyssey's fuel-saving variable cylinder management technology contributed to an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in combined driving, with a tested average of 21.8 mpg. However, the lack of all-wheel drive put it at a disadvantage in snowy regions. The Odyssey's ride and handling were enjoyable, with perfectly weighted steering and firm yet comfortable suspension. The brakes, though improved, showed signs of fade under heavy use, indicating a need for an upgrade.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover offered two powertrains: the base P400 with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine producing 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque, and the P530 with a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine delivering 523 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive. The P400 accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, impressive for its nearly 6,000-pound weight. The Range Rover's handling was surprisingly agile, with well-managed body roll and a calm, composed driving experience. Standard rear-wheel steering improved maneuverability, and the Terrain Response system optimized off-road capability. The ride quality was smooth, with minimal wind and road noise, making it one of the most comfortable luxury SUVs available.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey offered a well-designed interior with legible instrumentation, logical controls, and ample storage. The 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat, standard in all but the base LX trim, provided comfort with inboard adjustable armrests. The Elite trim added a heated steering wheel and heated and ventilated front seats. The Magic Slide second-row seat layout allowed for versatile seating configurations, while the third-row seats accommodated both children and adults comfortably. Cargo space was generous, with 32.8 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 88.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 144.9 cubic feet with the second-row seats removed.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover boasted spaciousness in the first two rows, enhanced by large windows and a panoramic sunroof. Front seats were cushioned for long-distance comfort, with available massage functions. Storage options included two glove boxes, a wireless charging pad, and a large center console bin. The second row offered ample space for taller passengers, with power recline and sliding adjustments. The optional third row, accessible with a button, provided adequate space for smaller passengers. Cargo space measured 17.1 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 43.1 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 93 cubic feet. The split tailgate and air suspension height adjustment facilitated loading and unloading.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey, starting with the EX trim, featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, and more. Touring trim added navigation, WiFi capability, and a CabinWatch interior camera. Elite trim included an 11-speaker premium sound system and wireless smartphone charging. HondaLink subscription plans offered additional features like remote operation and concierge services. 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, though it lacked a touchscreen interface.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover introduced a new Pivi Pro infotainment system with a 13-inch touchscreen, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system featured sharper graphics and quicker responses, though the screen's placement could be improved. The Meridian audio system delivered impressive sound quality, with an optional 35-speaker upgrade. Additional tech features included Amazon Alexa integration, remote automated parking, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The Range Rover's technology suite provided a premium experience, though some controls required more touchscreen interaction.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey improved its safety with standard Honda Sensing on all trims, including features like adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, pedestrian braking, and road-sign recognition. The Odyssey earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover resistance rating. The ADAS performed accurately, though adaptive cruise control and lane-departure warning could be smoother.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover came standard with features like frontal collision warning, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and a surround-view camera system. These features performed well, with the surround-view cameras aiding off-road navigation. While adequately equipped, the Range Rover lacked some advanced safety features found in rivals, such as advanced high beams and emergency stop functions.