Quietness, style, and luxury are all hallmarks of the current Honda Odyssey minivan. Packed with a powerful 280-horsepower V6 engine, the Odyssey is smooth and sleek, but it's also a quiet ride. Most people describe the Odyssey's handling as superb, and the ride is extremely comfortable. The only downfall of the Honda Odyssey is that it is not equipped with all-wheel drive. However, certain safety features, like blind spot warning and rear cross traffic warning, became standard starting with the 2023 design.
The Honda Odyssey does pretty well in comparison to other minivans. The Toyota Sienna offers all-wheel drive, but lacks the refined powertrain and well-designed cabin. The Kia Carnival has slightly more horsepower than the Odyssey, but the Odyssey has identical torque. At the end of the day, the Odyssey held up well on most ranking and review platforms, such as being first place on the Kelley Blue Book.
The current year Honda Odyssey, the flagship of minivans
For many people, safety is the bottom line when it comes to their minivan. If you are one of those people, the Honda Odyssey is right for you. The Odyssey leads with the NHTSA's 5-star safety rating. It's the same story with IIHS, the Odyssey is constantly on their "Top Pick'' list every year. Vans that typically perform less on IIHS's list include the Toyota Sienna (Marginal) and the Chrysler Pacifica (Acceptable). The Odyssey, by and far, is the safest minivan.
However, with a focus on safety, the Odyssey is not lacking in other areas. For example, there are several different trims available, the EX, EX-L, Sport, Touring, and Elite. Starting with the 2023 model year, Honda discontinued the Odyssey LX, resulting in a higher entry level price. However, safety features are more standard across the board. The Honda Odyssey frequently wins top awards, such as the Best Minivan for Families from US News & World Report.
The EX
The EX has more than 50 standard features, ranging from the Magic Slide center-row seat to integrated sunshades in the middle seat. The EX also includes an 8-inch infotainment center, 12-volt outlets, and satellite radio.
The EX-L
In addition to every feature in the EX, you get the option of leather-trimmed seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The driver's seat also has two memory slots for you and the other driver in your family.
The Sport
The Sport has all the features of the EX-L, but adds sport seats with stitching, black alloy wheels, and all-season tires.
The Touring
The Touring trim is perfect for family vacations, long trips, and when you want to do something on the weekend. You get an Advanced Rear Entertainment System, an in-cabin PA, and Wi-Fi Hotspot capability.
The Elite
The Elite, by and far, is the most amazing minivan you'll ever drive. In addition to all the features you get in the Touring, you can also enjoy heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a hands-free tailgate.
Who should buy a new Honda Odyssey?
The Honda Odyssey is, hands down, the safest minivan you'll ever drive. With plenty of features at each trim level, you will enjoy a comfortable ride wherever you go. If you are looking for something that will keep the kids entertained, the Touring and Elite trims are for you. The only missing feature on the Odyssey is all-wheel drive, which is essential for wet and snowy weather.
The Honda Odyssey is a great vehicle for families that:
- Want premium safety features in even the most basic trim.
- Need a minivan with a design centered on safety.
- Will trade in their minivan in a few years for a new model (the Odyssey does a particularly good job of maintaining its resale value).
The Odyssey handles very similarly to a mid-sized sedan or SUV. There is also ample storage space that expands when you fold down the seats. At the end of the day, there are only two negative aspects to the Odyssey: the lack of all-wheel drive and no hybrid model. Even without those two
Should you lease a new Honda Odyssey?
The new Odyssey tends to get a little pricey as you edge up to higher level trims. If you limit your driving, leasing a new Odyssey has several benefits, including:
- Lower monthly payments than buying outright.
- The opportunity to buy your vehicle at the end of your lease.
- Great support and service on your vehicle over the life of your lease.
- Being able to get a new car every few years without the hassle.
In 2022, according to Experian, the average car lease saved the driver about $133 per month in comparison to financing a new vehicle. The only downside to leasing a Honda Odyssey is that many families like to put miles on their van, so financing is a good option if you travel a lot.
Some guidelines for choosing the right Honda Odyssey trim
With so many trims and features available in the Odyssey lineup, the choice can be overwhelming. The good news is that there are not too many add-ons to each trim. To get started, you will want to make a list of all the features that you want. With the Odyssey being the safest minivan on the market, the basic EX is a good starting point. For longer road trips, you will want to go with a Touring or an Elite
Work with Brickell Honda for your next new minivan
Brickell Honda is first-in-class if you are looking for a new Honda Odyssey. We can work with you on your trade-in, help you lease a car, or arrange for financing that meets your needs. Brickell has won many awards for its outstanding dealership experience, including Honda's Presidents Award.
