2022 Honda Odyssey vs 2023 Honda Pilot

The 2022 Honda Odyssey was a minivan that consistently appealed to families, particularly those with young children. Its sliding side doors were a significant advantage, making it easier to load and unload toddlers in tight parking spaces. The Odyssey also offered a comfortable third-row seat, accommodating additional passengers like grandparents or carpool groups without hassle. Its cargo space was unmatched, providing ample room for gear and groceries, and when the seats were folded or removed, it rivaled the capacity of a Chevrolet Suburban. Despite its practicality, the Odyssey's minivan image deterred some buyers, although its design, especially in the Elite trim with dark gray 19-inch wheels, added a touch of style.

In contrast, the 2023 Honda Pilot underwent a complete redesign, presenting a more rugged and substantial appearance. It was larger than its predecessor, with an upright grille and boxier styling that enhanced its road presence. The Pilot's TrailSport model was particularly noteworthy, featuring off-road enhancements like a taller ride height and all-terrain tires. Inside, the Pilot's design was more conventional but functional, with quality materials and a focus on utility. The Pilot emphasized comfort and practicality, making it an attractive option for families seeking a versatile SUV that could handle both daily commutes and outdoor adventures.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey was equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. It was a front-wheel-drive vehicle, lacking the all-wheel-drive and hybrid options available in some competitors. The Odyssey's EPA fuel economy was estimated at 22 mpg in combined driving, which was less efficient than hybrid rivals like the Toyota Sienna. Despite this, the Odyssey was enjoyable to drive, offering quick acceleration and responsive handling. However, its brakes were prone to overheating on downhill grades, leading to pedal vibration and noise.

The 2023 Honda Pilot featured a new 3.5-liter V6 engine with 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, also paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available on all models and standard on the Elite and TrailSport trims. The Pilot's acceleration was quick, and its brake pedal was easy to modulate, providing smooth stops. While the Pilot was not designed for sporty driving, it offered a comfortable ride with light steering, making it suitable for family use. The TrailSport model added off-road capabilities without sacrificing on-road comfort, making it a versatile choice for adventurous families.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey offered easy access with wide-opening doors and a low ride height. Inside, the Odyssey Elite featured quality leather seats, tri-zone climate control, and ample storage space. The second-row Magic Slide seats provided flexibility for child seat placement and access to the third row, which was comfortable for adults. The Odyssey boasted 32.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 144.9 cubic feet with the seats removed, offering substantial capacity for family trips.

The 2023 Honda Pilot's interior was more conventional, with a practical dash shelf and a choice of touchscreen sizes depending on the trim. The Pilot offered clever storage solutions, including a stowable second-row center seat that provided a pass-through to the third row. The second row was spacious, while the third row was less accommodating for long trips. The Pilot offered 22.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 114.3 cubic feet with the seats folded, providing ample room for family adventures.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey Elite was equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen, satellite radio, and smartphone integration. Higher trims added navigation, CabinWatch, and CabinTalk features, along with a rear-seat entertainment system. However, the Odyssey's infotainment system was considered outdated, with a small screen and limited voice command functionality.

The 2023 Honda Pilot offered a more advanced technology package, with larger touchscreens, wireless smartphone integration, and a wireless charging pad on higher trims. The Pilot included Honda's CabinTalk system and added features like a multi-view camera system and a head-up display on the Elite trim. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with quick responses and a logical layout, although the graphics were not particularly modern.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey came standard with Honda Sensing, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. It also featured automatic high beams and a rear-seat reminder system. The Odyssey received a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, although some safety features lacked refinement.

The 2023 Honda Pilot also included Honda Sensing as standard, with additional features like a blind-spot monitor and traffic-jam assist. Higher trims added low-speed automatic braking and parking sensors. The Pilot received a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, and its safety features functioned smoothly during testing, providing a reassuring driving experience.