2021 BMW X3 vs 2022 Honda Odyssey

The 2021 BMW X3, part of the third generation introduced in 2018, received several updates in 2020, including a plug-in hybrid model and M performance variants. This generation of the X3 was a significant refinement, offering the exterior and interior presence of larger, more expensive BMW models. The X3's exterior resembled a downsized BMW X5, while the interior featured the same cold, mechanical styling found across the BMW lineup. Although not as aesthetically pleasing as the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, the X3's dash was more functional.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey, while adhering to the classic minivan design, offered a sense of style, especially in the Elite trim with its dark gray 19-inch aluminum wheels. The Odyssey's kinked sliding doors and hockey-stick character lines added a touch of drama to its clean flanks. The interior was designed with family convenience in mind, featuring quality materials, supportive seats, and a tri-zone automatic climate control system. The Odyssey's open-concept design and numerous storage spaces made it a practical choice for families.

The 2021 BMW X3 offered a range of powertrains. The sDrive30i and xDrive30i came with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 248 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The sDrive30i had rear-wheel drive, while the xDrive30i featured all-wheel drive. The xDrive30e plug-in hybrid delivered 288 horsepower and had a 17-mile electric-only range, with recharging times of 3.5 hours using a 240-volt Level 2 charger or almost 12 hours with a 120-volt outlet. For those seeking performance, the M40i offered a 382-hp twin-turbo inline-six, while the X3 M boasted 473 horsepower.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Unlike some competitors, the Odyssey did not offer all-wheel drive or an electrified powertrain. It had an EPA fuel economy estimate of 22 mpg in combined driving. During a test drive in Southern California, the Odyssey averaged 22.6 mpg. While the Odyssey was enjoyable to drive, its brakes tended to heat up during repeated use, especially when descending hills, leading to pedal vibration and an audible grumble.

The 2021 BMW X3 provided up to 62.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, and 28.7 cubic feet with the seats in use. A power liftgate was standard, with an optional hands-free power liftgate. The X3 offered ample headroom and legroom for front and rear passengers, with a commanding driving position. The interior featured real buttons and dials to complement the main touchscreen, making it user-friendly.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey offered easy access with wide-opening doors and a lower seating position. The Elite trim featured quality leather, supportive front seats with power adjustment, heating, and ventilation, and a tri-zone automatic climate control system. The Odyssey's interior had numerous storage spaces, including shelving in the front door panels and a handy floor tray. The second-row Magic Slide seats allowed for flexible configurations, and the third-row seat was comfortable for adults. The Odyssey provided 32.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 88.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 144.9 cubic feet with the second-row seats removed.

The 2021 BMW X3 came standard with a 10.2-inch touchscreen running the iDrive infotainment system, which was user-friendly. It included Apple CarPlay, with Android Auto as an option. Other available features included wireless device charging, a fully digital instrument panel, and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon premium stereo system. Gesture control was also an option, allowing basic controls through hand movements.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey Elite was equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment display, satellite radio, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto starting with the EX trim. The Touring and Elite trims added navigation, HondaLink connected services, CabinWatch, and CabinTalk technology. The rear-seat entertainment system included a 10.2-inch display, but it was considered outdated. The Elite trim also featured an 11-speaker premium audio system and a wireless charging pad. However, the Odyssey's infotainment system was seen as underwhelming and in need of an upgrade.

The 2021 BMW X3 came standard with advanced driver-assistance features, including automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and front-and-rear parking sensors. Optional safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, headlights that bend with the road, and a head-up display.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey was equipped with Honda Sensing as standard, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and lane-centering assist. It also had automatic high-beam headlights and a rear-seat reminder system. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available starting with the EX trim. The Odyssey earned a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.