What's the difference?
Nearly every car brand has jumped well and truly onto the SUV bandwagon in 2021, offering models in small, medium and large varieties for buyers of all budgets and lifestyles.
Honda Australia is a notable exception here however, and while it has the HR-V and CR-V to satisfy small- and medium-crossover buyers, there is nothing for those after a large SUV that seats seven.
To try and fill that gap, Honda has updated its Odyssey people mover with fresh looks, more safety and new tech to not only compete against the Kia Carnival and Toyota Prius V, but also the likes of the Toyota Kluger, Mazda CX-8 and Hyundai Santa Fe.
Can Honda’s Odyssey still cut it in a world that has gone SUV crazy? Let’s find out.
For 15 years the Mitsubishi ASX has been one of the most popular SUVs in Australia. Well into its life cycle, it maintained strong sales thanks to keen pricing and a reputation for reliability.
The second-generation ASX is finally here, but it’s a very different proposition to the original.
For starters, the new model is a twin of French brand Renault’s Captur small SUV. That model is not currently sold here, so Mitsubishi has clear air, for now.
Secondly, it’s no longer cheap. Pricing puts this new model into the high-$30,000 section of the segment, but it also gains modern tech and specs.
Whether buyers care that the ASX has gone upmarket remains to be seen. But we attended the Australian launch to see if French flair has improved the ASX formula.
The Honda Odyssey isn’t a bad choice for those looking to ferry around a large gaggle of people, but its far from the best option.
The first two rows are great and are supremely comfortable for those four occupants, but third-row usage will depend on how much those passengers are susceptible to motion sickness.
However, the Odyssey’s biggest weakness might be its sluggish engine and mundane CVT, with rivals like the new Kia Carnival and even Toyota Prius V offering better performance and better economy, respectively.
Still, the Honda Odyssey, and people movers in general, remain a solid option for those that don’t want another SUV or value the practicality and space afforded.
There is no question the new ASX is a much better car to drive than the model it replaces. This one is actually fun behind the wheel. The tech represents a massive upgrade, so too does the interior design and practicality. The fact is, it’s a much more expensive car than the old ASX. It is a European built and designed small SUV with loads more tech and features so when you consider that, the pricing makes more sense.
Regardless of the previous model, this new ASX impresses. It’s not perfect - the LS is missing too many items, no hybrid, slightly firm ride - but it’s now a genuine rival for higher quality rivals in the small SUV segment. If the ASX is in your price bracket, it might be time to add it to the consideration list.