Honda Odyssey vs Acura MDX

People want stylish, reliable, and safe vehicles equipped with simple controls, intuitive technology, and enjoyable driving dynamics. Of course, value is a part of that equation, particularly when it comes to fuel economy. We’re happy to report the refreshed 2025 Acura MDX meets nearly all of those requirements. Furthermore, Acura has apparently gotten the user-experience and user-interface message loud and clear, as the changes to the 2025 MDX reflect a shift to simplicity, sophistication, and refinement.

Verdict: This year’s updates make the 2025 Acura MDX more appealing than ever. However, this is not a fuel-efficient choice and the standard V6 engine is somewhat underwhelming. Acura needs to install a hybrid or plug-in hybrid in the MDX as soon as possible if it wants to woo customers shopping in this segment.

Honda hasn’t redesigned the Odyssey since 2018, but this minivan does get a few updates that will appeal to the Odyssey faithful. They include subtle styling changes, a new 7-inch digital driver display, an updated 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, modernized USB-C charging ports, and a smartphone charging pad. A new Amazon Fire TV rear-seat entertainment system also arrives for 2025. While appreciated, these improvements don’t rescue the Odyssey from its increasingly uncompetitive position.

Verdict: The 2025 Odyssey doesn’t offer a hybrid powertrain or an all-wheel-drive (AWD) option. The updated tech merely meets minimum standards and expectations. And in a new crash-test evaluation, Honda’s minivan earns a rare low rating. Certainly, the Odyssey remains comfortable, exceptionally practical, and enjoyable to drive. But it needs a redesign, and soon.