2022 Honda Odyssey vs 2021 Audi Q5

The 2021 Audi Q5 was a sharp-looking crossover SUV that embodied the Audi design language while maintaining its unique character. It featured an expressive front with LED headlights and a prominent Audi Singleframe grille, emphasizing width with horizontal elements. The body showcased crisp character lines, and the rear was marked by bold, large taillights. The Q5 exuded a classy, modern appearance with exceptional fit and finish. Inside, the Q5 was equally classy and modern, with a technology-packed yet uncluttered interior. The materials used were authentic, with real wood and metal, and the 10.1-inch touchscreen was strategically placed for optimal driver visibility. The second row was well-appointed with standard leather upholstery.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey, while adhering to the classic minivan design, offered a sense of style with its kinked sliding doors and dramatic character lines. The Touring trim featured dark grey 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels, adding to its appeal. Inside, the Odyssey provided a classic open-concept design with a low console and ample storage space. The centre stack, though initially appearing cluttered, was intuitive with commonly used functions easily accessible. The expansive windshield and small front quarter windows enhanced visibility, making the Odyssey feel open and airy. The interior was designed for practicality and comfort, with quality leather upholstery and a focus on family-friendly features.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV enhanced the driving experience with an additional 114 horsepower and 96 pound-feet of torque from a 14.1-kWh battery, resulting in a total output of 362 hp and 373 lb-ft of torque. This setup allowed the Q5 to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.3 seconds, with impressive fuel efficiency figures of 4.7 litres-equivalent per 100 km combined. The Q5 PHEV featured a seven-speed S Tronic automatic transmission with full-time Quattro AWD, offering various driving modes for battery power management. The handling was sporty yet comfortable, with minimal body roll and powerful braking.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. It offered a Natural Resources Canada fuel consumption estimate of 10.6 litres per 100 km in combined driving. While not as fuel-efficient as some hybrid competitors, the Odyssey provided an enjoyable driving experience with responsive handling and quick acceleration. However, repeated use of the brakes on downhill grades led to pedal vibration and audible grumbling, indicating a need for more heat-resistant brakes.

The 2021 Audi Q5 offered a balanced interior space with 710 litres of cargo space behind the second row, expandable to 1,503 litres with the seats folded. The second row provided ample legroom, headroom, and shoulder room, accommodating two adults comfortably. The front seats were supportive and adjustable, with heating and optional ventilation. The interior design was uncluttered, with smartly laid-out storage options.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey excelled in interior space and versatility. It featured 929 litres of cargo space behind the third row, with a deep well to prevent items from rolling out. Folding the third-row seat increased cargo space to 2,452 litres, and removing the second-row seats provided a massive 3,984 litres of space. The Magic Slide second-row seats offered flexibility for child seat placement and easy access to the third row. The Odyssey's interior was designed for family convenience, with numerous storage options and practical features.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV was equipped with Audi’s latest MMI 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, complemented by the Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus 12.3-inch HD instrument cluster. The system offered customization options and included a Bang & Olufsen 3D audio system with 19 speakers. Wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto were standard, enhancing connectivity.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey Touring featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The Touring trim included CabinWatch and CabinTalk technology, a rear entertainment system with a 10.2-inch display, and an 11-speaker premium audio system. However, the infotainment system was considered outdated compared to competitors, with a need for a larger screen and more intuitive navigation.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV had not been rated by the IIHS, but the 2020 gasoline model received top ratings except for headlights. The NHTSA awarded the 2021 gasoline model five stars. Safety features included six airbags, electronic stability control, and available driver-assistance features like Audi Pre Sense front and adaptive cruise control.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey came standard with Honda Sensing, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. The Odyssey earned a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. However, Honda Sensing lacked refinement, with some features responding too sharply to driving situations.