Honda Odyssey

Minivans might have been abandoned by much of the auto industry in favor of SUVs, but that does not mean that these reliable vehicles are irrelevant to large families looking for a great solution to their transportation needs. Far removed from the barebones options of decades past, modern minivans have transformed into vehicles just as innovative, powerful, and compelling as anything else on the road. The legendary Honda Odyssey is the perfect example of that: a remarkable minivan that has been available since 1995. Initially released as a surprisingly small option for a vehicle with such a spacious interior, the Odyssey quickly grew in size to better meet the needs of bigger families here in the US.

With the release of the second-generation Odyssey for the 1999 model year, Honda made two important decisions: they decided to build two versions of the Odyssey, including a larger model for the American market, and they decided to build that model in North America. Honda retained a smaller Odyssey model in Japan, selling the larger American version as the LaGreat; this bigger second-generation version of the Odyssey became much more popular here compared to the first generation. This was also the point at which the Odyssey gained sliding rear doors, making it easier for passengers to get in and out, along with a general redesign that made for a better driving experience and saw a more spacious interior.

Since then, the Honda Odyssey has remained a fantastic minivan option for families looking for a more open interior than you can find with a typical SUV. Numerous redesigns and updates throughout the decades since its initial launch have ensured the Odyssey remains a terrific vehicle that is safe and reliable. In fact, in recent years, the Odyssey has gained a remarkable suite of innovative safety technology designed to ensure you and your passengers get home safely every single day. Few minivans have survived the onslaught of SUVs taking over the auto industry; the fact that the Odyssey remains just as relevant and impressive today as it was when it first hit the road more than 25 years ago tells you everything you need to know about it.

MSRP: $37,840 ^[a]

Passenger Volume (cu.ft.): 163.6

Max. Occupancy (seats): 8

Fuel Economy (city/hwy MPG): 19/28

Founding the fourth generation of the Honda Odyssey, the 2011 model is fully redesigned and built slightly longer and a couple of inches wider than the previous model had been. The 2011 Odyssey is powered by a 3.5L V6 engine that delivers 248 hp and 250 lb-ft of torque, which comes with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) that can adjust how many cylinders are used to boost performance or efficiency as needed. With its redesign for this generation, Honda cut a fair amount of weight from the Odyssey, making it even more enjoyable to drive. The larger size of this model—compared to the previous year—results in more room inside to enjoy, giving you a fantastic option with three rows of seating for big groups of people.

One of the most impressive uses of this interior is the spacious second row that seats three. Perhaps more compelling, the outer seats in this second row can both adjust outward for more space, allowing for three child seats to securely and safely fit into the second row, making this the ultimate minivan for transporting young children. While you might not find all of the latest bells and whistles that you will get inside a vehicle from a decade later, the fourth-generation Odyssey is no slouch when it comes to interior features, particularly if you check out the newly added Touring Elite trim; these features include things like an available 12-speaker sound system, a voice-controlled navigation system, and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system with a 16.2-inch display with split-screen functionality.

Although still part of the fourth generation, the 2014 Honda Odyssey hits the road with a stylish facelift and numerous updates to help it stand out and immediately make a name for itself. Previously, a five-speed automatic transmission was standard in the Odyssey, with a six-speed automatic exclusive to the highest trims; the 2014 update makes this six-speed transmission standard on all models, allowing for a smoother driving experience in every Honda Odyssey. As you would expect with this sort of facelift, the biggest updates are noticeable from the moment you first see the 2014 model, including a new hood, aluminum fenders, and a revised front fascia with a two-bar grille for an added touch of style and sophistication. It looks fantastic, you get great handling, and the improved standard transmission helps boost fuel efficiency.

Inside the 2014 Odyssey, the design remains much the same, with plenty of space to enjoy and big, comfortable seats, including one of the roomiest second rows in the industry. One of the most unique additions we have ever seen comes in this 2014 model as Honda adds its new HondaVac: a built-in vacuum only found on the Touring Elite trim, which makes cleaning up the interior incredibly easy. Up front, the updated Odyssey also includes some new tech features like revised center controls in most models, with an 8.0-inch infotainment display and a second screen for navigation functionality. A new LaneWatch camera in the passenger side mirror allows for available Blind Spot Monitoring, while safety tech like a Forward Collision Warning and a Lane Departure Warning have also become available on the 2014 model.

With the 2018 Odyssey, Honda once again launches an all-new generation—the fifth generation for this illustrious minivan—with a complete redesign. Although very similar in size to its precursor, the 2018 Odyssey is slightly narrower and taller; more importantly, Honda uses lightweight materials like ultra-high-strength steel to reduce the fifth-generation Odyssey’s overall weight without sacrificing safety or durability. Handling and drive quality have been improved with the revamped Honda Odyssey, which is powered by a 3.5L V6 engine now tuned to deliver 280 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque for a sportier ride; this is paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission that elevates the experience of driving this minivan. It is wonderfully efficient and fun to drive despite its large size, which is perfect for families.

New technology is clearly a major focus for Honda, and you can see it throughout the 2018 Odyssey; two of the particularly noteworthy tech options are CabinWatch and CabinTalk. CabinWatch includes an interior camera that lets the driver and front passenger easily see what is going on within the vehicle, even in the back row—and it is perfect to see if kids are napping in the back or squabbling. CabinTalk pairs with this perfectly and makes it easier for the driver to talk to rear-seat passengers without having to shout across the length of the minivan. Even better, nearly all 2018 Odyssey models come with the Honda Sensing suite of safety technology that includes a Forward Collision Warning with Automatic Emergency Braking, a Lane Departure Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control, and more.

For the 2021 model year, the Odyssey continues strong in its fifth generation, but Honda has given it a gorgeous facelift to elevate its overall look and features even more. Like with most mid-generation vehicle facelifts, the 2021 Odyssey’s new looks are immediately apparent and include a redesigned front grille and changes to the tailgate, giving it a bold and sophisticated appearance. There was nothing wrong with how previous model years looked, but it is still nice to see Honda go above and beyond to make something remarkable even better. Although the interior looks better than ever, it remains incredibly functional, with room for three child seats in the second row and two more in the back, creating incredible options for a family of any size.

Speaking of interior comfort, some nice additions with the facelift include available four-way power lumbar for the front passenger seat, plus perforated leather seating to truly elevate your experience on the road. CabinWatch and CabinTalk technologies have been streamlined and are easier to use together; CabinWatch is now integrated with a rear-seat occupant reminder to help you avoid forgetting about children in the back of your Odyssey. While on the road, everyone can stay entertained with the available rear-seat displays and entertainment system, plus Wi-Fi support, an HDMI port, and plenty of USB ports to keep devices charged. Perhaps best of all, the incredible Honda Sensing suite of safety technologies is now standard on all models, including the starting trim, ensuring that you get a safe vehicle that will protect you and your loved ones no matter what your budget looks like.

For the 2024 model year, we are not getting an all-new generation just yet, though we are hoping to see one as part of a celebration of the Odyssey’s 30th anniversary. Since last year’s model had a few noteworthy improvements and additions that carry over into the 2024 model, we are not too upset about missing out on major updates. The starting base trim for the fifth generation (the LX) was discontinued last year, making the EX trim the new standard, which means you will find better features than ever in any Odyssey model. The 280-hp V6 engine that we have fallen in love with over the past few years remains the standard, ensuring every Odyssey is incredibly fun to drive and surprisingly fuel efficient.

The 2024 Honda Odyssey retains its remarkably spacious interior, giving you tons of room for all of your passengers and anything you need to bring along with you. Last year, Honda added a new Sport trim to the Odyssey featuring body-color door handles, unique 19-inch wheels, and black leather upholstery with red stitching, matched beautifully by red ambient interior lighting. This gorgeous Sport trim remains available for 2024 and is one of our favorite options if you're looking for something that can transport your family safely and stylishly. The standard Honda Sensing suite now includes more safety features than ever, with things like a Blind Spot Information System, Multi-Angle Rearview Camera, and a Road Departure Mitigation System.

Whether you know the Honda Odyssey is perfect for you and your family, or you are still considering a number of options and trying to choose the right fit, here at Ralph Honda we are ready to help you find it. With one of our friendly and knowledgeable salespeople by your side, it is easy to explore the full Honda lineup and look at everything it has to offer: from amazing sedans like the Civic and Accord to legendary SUVs like the CR-V and, of course, the spacious and reliable Honda Odyssey.

We will answer all of your questions, discuss with you what you need in your next vehicle, and help you check out what Honda brings to the road so you can find the perfect ride. Plus, with our certified service center and Honda parts department, we will be here for many years ahead to help you with everything from routine maintenance and scheduled service to any repairs you might need. Call or come visit us at Ralph Honda today to learn more, and let us show you how easy and enjoyable it can be to find the vehicle you've been looking for.

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^[a] MSRP may change without notice. See dealer for complete details.