2021 Honda Odyssey vs 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid

The 2021 Honda Odyssey presented a familiar yet refreshed appearance, with subtle updates to its styling. 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. New wheel designs were also introduced for the top three trims, giving the Odyssey a more modern look by reducing brightwork. The interior of the Odyssey Elite trim was notably upscale, featuring perforated leather upholstery with contrast stitching and piping, new dashboard ambient lighting, and improved seating materials and design. The 19-inch wheels with Shark Gray paint and machined surfaces added to its appeal, making it a more luxurious option in the minivan segment.

In contrast, the 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid showcased a bold and dramatic new design, setting it apart from its predecessor. The exterior featured sharp, angular cues and a grille that seamlessly blended with the LED headlights, running lights, and turn signals, creating a futuristic look. The Tucson was longer and wider, offering a distinct presence on the road. The interior was spacious and airy, with a bulkier center console but an unobstructed view at eye level due to the integrated infotainment display and hoodless driver information display. The Limited trim added ambient lighting with 64 colors, heated and ventilated front seats, and a memory function for the driver's seat, enhancing the overall cabin experience.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission, delivering 280 horsepower. This combination provided smooth and effortless power, with driving modes including Normal, Sport, Econ, and Snow. The Odyssey's fuel-saving technology, variable cylinder management, allowed it to achieve an EPA rating of 22 mpg in combined driving, with a test average of 21.8 mpg. However, the lack of all-wheel drive (AWD) put it at a disadvantage in snowy regions. The Odyssey's ride and handling were enjoyable, with perfectly weighted steering and firm yet comfortable suspension. The new electronic brake booster improved brake pedal feel, but the brakes struggled under heavy use, especially in hot conditions.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid impressed with its 1.6-liter turbo-four engine and electric motor, producing a combined 226 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The AWD system and six-speed automatic transmission provided responsive and direct steering. The Tucson Hybrid's suspension excelled at absorbing road imperfections while maintaining balance through corners. Fuel economy was commendable, with an EPA rating of 37 mpg city, 36 highway, and 37 combined, and a test result of 36.5 mpg. The upcoming plug-in hybrid version promised even greater efficiency with an 80 MPGe rating and 33 miles of all-electric range.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey offered a well-designed interior with legible instrumentation, logical controls, and ample storage. The 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat, heated steering wheel, and heated and ventilated front seats in the Elite trim provided comfort, though the front passenger seat lacked height adjustment. The Magic Slide second-row seat layout allowed for versatile seating configurations, while the third-row seats accommodated both children and adults comfortably. Cargo space was generous, with 32.8 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 88.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 144.9 cubic feet with the second-row seats removed.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid boasted a spacious interior with over 41 inches of front and rear legroom. The cargo area offered 38.8 cubic feet, expanding to 74.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The dual-level cargo floor provided flexibility, and the cabin featured numerous storage options, including bottle holders and cupholders. The Limited trim's ambient lighting added a touch of flair to the interior.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey's technology suite included an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and various connectivity features starting from the EX trim. Touring and Elite trims added navigation, WiFi capability, a CabinWatch interior camera, and a CabinTalk PA system. The Elite trim featured an 11-speaker premium sound system and wireless smartphone charging. 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, Blu-Ray player, and streaming apps, though it lacked a touchscreen interface.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid's tech offerings were generally good but had some frustrations. The 10.25-inch touchscreen in the Limited trim required a wired connection for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, while the smaller 8-inch screen offered wireless connectivity. The touch-capacitive buttons for infotainment and HVAC controls were less user-friendly than physical buttons. However, the Tucson provided ample USB ports, a beautiful touchscreen display, and a Bose premium stereo in the test vehicle.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey featured the Honda Sensing suite of advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) as standard, including adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, pedestrian braking, and road-sign recognition. The Odyssey earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, with the exception of a four-star rollover resistance rating. The Odyssey's ADAS worked accurately but could be smoother in operation.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, pedestrian and cyclist detection, blind-spot collision avoidance, and more. The Limited trim added a surround-view monitor, highway-driving assist, and unique features like blind-spot view monitor and remote smart park assist. The Tucson earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, though NHTSA ratings were not yet available.