2021 Honda Odyssey vs 2020 Mazda CX-5

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 was a testament to Mazda's commitment to delivering a premium experience beyond mere claims. This model year saw enhancements such as more standard equipment, improved cabin aesthetics, and noise reduction measures. The turbocharged engine received a torque boost, and AWD models gained an off-road traction feature. With prices ranging from $27,950 to $41,900, the CX-5 offered trims like GX, GS, GT, GT Turbo, and Signature. The Signature trim, with its Nappa leather and real wood, exuded luxury, though the Caturra Brown leather lacked contrast against the predominantly black interior.

In contrast, the 2021 Honda Odyssey maintained a familiar design with subtle updates like a new grille, bumper, and LED headlights. The Touring trim introduced a new 19-inch wheel design, enhancing the minivan's modern appeal. With base prices from $44,645 to $55,845, the Odyssey offered trims such as EX-RES, EX-L Navi, EX-L RES, and Touring. The test vehicle, in Lunar Silver Metallic, featured perforated leather upholstery and ambient lighting, elevating its interior to a more upscale feel. The Odyssey's design updates aimed to reduce brightwork, giving it a more refined look.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 came with a standard 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The GT Turbo and Signature trims featured a turbocharged version, delivering up to 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque with premium fuel. Despite its 1,734-kilogram curb weight, the CX-5 Signature accelerated confidently. However, its fuel efficiency was lower, averaging 10.6 L/100 km during testing. The CX-5's G-Vectoring Control Plus technology enhanced driving engagement, though excessive body motions detracted from the overall thrill.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey, powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine with 280 horsepower, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, offered smooth and effortless power delivery. The engine's variable cylinder management improved fuel efficiency, averaging 10.8 L/100 km. While AWD was unavailable, the Odyssey featured a new electronic brake booster, enhancing brake pedal feel and response. The Odyssey's ride and handling were pleasurable, with well-managed body motions and firm yet comfortable suspension. However, the brakes showed signs of fade during intense use, indicating a need for improvement.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5's interior, while stylish and upscale, was more cramped compared to competitors like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. The CX-5 offered heated front seats as standard, with higher trims adding features like ventilated front seats and Nappa leather. Cargo space measured 875 litres behind the rear seat, expanding to 1,687 litres with the seats folded. The CX-5's focus on luxury aimed to offset its limited practicality.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey excelled in interior space and storage, with a 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat and Magic Slide second-row seats offering versatile configurations. Cargo space was generous, with 929 litres behind the third row, expanding to 3,984 litres with seats removed. However, removing the second-row seats was cumbersome. The Odyssey's interior was designed for comfort and utility, with thoughtful storage solutions and seating flexibility.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 featured a Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth. Higher trims added features like a Bose premium sound system and a surround-view camera. However, the system's controls were not user-friendly, requiring acclimation and setup to reduce frustration.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey boasted an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Cabin Control app. Higher trims added navigation, CabinWatch, and CabinTalk features. The Touring trim included a premium audio system and wireless charging. Despite its comprehensive tech suite, the lack of a tuning knob and subpar voice-recognition technology were drawbacks.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, with standard ADAS features like automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The CX-5 earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, showcasing its robust safety credentials.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey improved its safety features with standard Honda Sensing, including adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow and pedestrian braking. The Odyssey's ADAS worked accurately, though not always smoothly. The Odyssey maintained its impressive safety ratings, with top scores from the NHTSA and expected high marks from the IIHS.