2022 Kia Sportage vs 2021 Honda Odyssey

The 2021 Honda Odyssey presented a familiar yet refreshed appearance, with subtle updates to its decade-old styling theme. The new model year introduced a redesigned grille and front bumper, standard LED headlights with automatic high-beam operation across all trims, and a gloss black spear with a chrome insert stretching across the taillights. The Touring trim debuted a new 19-inch wheel design, enhancing the minivan's modern appeal by minimizing brightwork. Inside, the Odyssey Touring offered a more luxurious feel with perforated leather upholstery, contrast stitching, and ambient dashboard lighting, elevating its status as a premium minivan.

In contrast, the 2022 Kia Sportage's design was a mix of bold and questionable elements. While the tiger-nose grille seemed out of place, the SUV excelled in other design aspects, such as the four-dot running light signature reminiscent of the Porsche Macan and the Volkswagen-style symmetry of the rear. The Sportage SX's 19-inch alloy wheels and planted stance added to its stylish presence. Inside, the Sportage embraced Germanic design cues with a black dashboard, polished metallic accents, and straightforward controls, creating an upscale and user-friendly environment.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 280 horsepower, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. This combination delivered smooth and effortless power, aided by variable cylinder management for improved fuel efficiency. The Odyssey's fuel consumption was rated at 10.6 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, with our tests averaging 10.8 L/100 km. However, the lack of all-wheel drive put the Odyssey at a disadvantage in snowy Canadian conditions. The new electronic brake booster improved brake pedal feel and response, although the brakes showed signs of fade under heavy use.

The 2022 Kia Sportage offered two engine options, with the Sportage SX featuring a more powerful 237-horsepower engine and 260 lb-ft of torque. This engine provided quick acceleration, especially beneficial at higher elevations. The six-speed automatic transmission and Dynamax all-wheel-drive system, with a locking centre differential, ensured a balanced power distribution. The Sportage SX's ride was smooth and compliant, with a hint of body roll, while the suspension tuning contributed to a sophisticated driving experience. However, the steering and tire grip could be improved for a more refined performance.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey excelled in interior space and storage, typical of a minivan. The Magic Slide second-row seat layout offered versatile seating configurations, while the third-row seats accommodated both children and adults comfortably. Cargo space was generous, with 929 litres behind the third row and a maximum of 3,984 litres. However, removing the second-row seats to maximize cargo volume was cumbersome. The Odyssey's interior featured comfortable seating with adjustable armrests, although the lack of a tuning knob for the stereo was a minor inconvenience.

The 2022 Kia Sportage, despite its compact size, provided a roomy passenger compartment. The SX trim offered perforated leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, and heated and ventilated front seats. Rear passengers enjoyed ample legroom, air conditioning vents, and USB charging ports. The Sportage's cargo space was limited compared to competitors, with 1,703 litres available with the rear seats folded. The smart liftgate technology added convenience, although it could be turned off if not needed.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and various connectivity options. The EX-L Navi and Touring trims added navigation, CabinWatch, and CabinTalk systems, enhancing communication with rear-seat passengers. 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 and streaming apps, though it lacked a touchscreen interface.

The 2022 Kia Sportage came with a standard 8-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, and smartphone connectivity. The SX trim added UVO Intelligence services, satellite radio, and a premium Harman Kardon audio system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with knobs for volume and tuning, but the UVO Intelligence system lagged behind in technological sophistication. The lack of a WiFi hotspot and wired smartphone mirroring were notable limitations.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey boasted an impressive array of safety features, with Honda Sensing now standard across all trims. The system included adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, pedestrian braking, and road-sign recognition. The Odyssey's ADAS worked accurately, though not always smoothly. The minivan earned top safety ratings from the NHTSA and was expected to maintain its IIHS Top Safety Pick status.

The 2022 Kia Sportage offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. The SX trim added adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability. The Sportage received favourable crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, with the SX trim earning an Acceptable headlight rating, qualifying it for an IIHS Top Safety Pick.