Overview & Reviews

For most of its lifespan, the Honda Odyssey has been a favored pick among minivans. Although the vehicle had a rather humble debut, it quickly hit its stride once Honda came out with the second-generation model, which featured a spacious cabin and an innovative third-row seat that folds into the floor. Now in its fourth generation, the Odyssey is one of the top minivans currently available.

The Honda Odyssey has made a strong showing, usually earning top honors in every minivan comparison test we've held. There are other minivans that rival the Odyssey's family-friendly features, but the Honda combines those attributes with confident driving dynamics and a long-standing record of reliability, making it an all-around family favorite.

Current Honda Odyssey
The fittingly popular Honda Odyssey comes in five trim levels: LX, EX, EX-L, Touring and Touring Elite. All Honda Odysseys are powered by a 248-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 matched to a six-speed automatic transmission.

The entry-level LX's standard features include a power driver seat, a 60/40-split-folding third-row seat, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, a rearview camera, Pandora interface and a USB/iPod interface. The EX's additional highlights include power-sliding side doors, keyless ignition and entry, tri-zone automatic climate control, a multifunction second-row seat and an upgraded audio system. The EX-L's enhancements include a power liftgate, a sunroof, leather upholstery and heated seats. The Touring adds front and rear parking sensors, navigation and a rear-seat entertainment system. The Touring Elite's added highlights include xenon headlights, an integrated vacuum cleaner and upgraded audio and video entertainment systems.

On the road, the Odyssey impresses thanks to its smooth V6 and relatively agile handling. Inside, Honda's minivan boasts tight build quality and spacious, comfortable seating areas. Compared to previous Odyssey generations, the current model is significantly quieter on the road, but the button-heavy cockpit remains. All things considered, the Odyssey remains a favorite of Edmunds editors.

Used Honda Odyssey Models
The fourth and latest generation of the Honda Odyssey debuted for 2011. Completely redesigned and compared to the previous generation, it has sleeker styling, a roomier interior, improved fuel economy and new features. For 2013, the LX standard features list grew with the addition of a rearview camera, Bluetooth phone/audio connectivity and a USB/iPod interface. Note that these Odysseys lack the current version's updated exterior and interior styling, six-speed automatic on LX, EX and EX-L models (they previously had a five-speed automatic) and availability of a Pandora interface, HD radio and an in-vehicle vacuum cleaner.

The previous (third-generation) Honda Odyssey was produced from 2005-'10. Trim levels included the LX, EX, EX-L and Touring. Motivation was supplied by a 244-hp 3.5-liter V6 mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. The V6 found in the EX-L and Touring trim levels had a variable cylinder management system to improve fuel economy.

The LX featured full power accessories, cruise control, side curtain airbags, stability control and a CD player. The EX added alloy wheels, eight-passenger seating, power-sliding doors, a power driver seat, a six-disc CD changer, in-floor storage with a "lazy Susan" and second-row sunshades. The EX-L brought leather seating, heated seats, a power tailgate and a sunroof. The Touring added triple-zone climate control, power-adjustable pedals, foglights, parking sensors, a removable second-row center console and run-flat tires. A rear entertainment system and a navigation system with Bluetooth were optional on the EX-L and Touring.

In reviews, we found this Odyssey to be a top minivan thanks to its smooth V6, responsive steering and secure handling. Inside, Honda's minivan boasted tight build quality and spacious, comfortable seating areas. At the time, downsides included elevated road noise and, as the years went on, a somewhat dated interior.

There were only minor changes for the third-generation Odyssey, with 2008 bringing minor exterior styling updates and new convenience features, and 2009 seeing a standard power liftgate debut for the EX-L as well as integrated Bluetooth for the optional navigation system.

The second-generation Honda Odyssey was available from 1999-2004. It was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 initially rated at 210 hp (from 1999-2001) and later cranked up to 240 hp (2002-'04). The transmission was a four-speed automatic until '02, when a five-speed automatic debuted. This Odyssey boasted dual sliding rear doors in place of the first generation's swinging doors, and it was considerably larger overall, but it retained the original model's trick fold-flat third-row seat. In the all-important safety department, antilock brakes were standard from the get-go, though rear disc brakes only became standard across the lineup in 2002. Side curtain airbags arrived for '02 as well.

Two trim levels were available, each with seven-passenger seating: LX and EX. The LX came standard with air-conditioning, cruise control, a tilt steering wheel, full power accessories and an AM/FM/CD stereo (earlier models had only a tape deck). The EX added traction control (not provided for the LX until '01) as well as luxuries like alloy wheels, power-sliding rear doors, automatic climate control and a multifunction steering wheel. EX options included a navigation system (not available in 1999), a rear-seat entertainment system (from '02 onward) and leather upholstery.

In reviews, our editors remarked on the second-generation Odyssey's best-in-class performance, which came courtesy of a powerful V6 and a capable all-independent suspension. We also lauded the Odyssey's large cabin, available power-sliding doors and that slick hide-away third-row seat. Throughout its six-year run, Honda's second-generation Odyssey was quite simply the one to get. It won the Editors' Most Wanted award every year from 1999-2003 for the minivan category.

The first-generation Honda Odyssey, which debuted in 1995, had a few features that, for better or worse, made it unique. Instead of sliding doors on the sides, the Odyssey had four conventional swing-open doors with roll-down windows. And although the competition offered V6 engines, the Honda didn't. An inline-4 borrowed from the Accord EX powered the Odyssey. With VTEC variable valve timing and lift, it made a respectable 140 hp. But good as it was, 140 wasn't enough power when the Odyssey was loaded up with kids or cargo. The van did, however, offer a highly functional fold-flat third-row seat. This feature has proven invaluable to -- and highly popular with -- minivan buyers over the past decade.

User Reviews:

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  Honda has lost its superior service - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By Stephanie - April 10 - 1:51 pm

  The transmission just went out on our vehicle with a price tag of $5100.00. There are documented transmission problems in the odyssey and the price tag is very excessive. We have done all scheduled maintenance and taken great care of the van. We have also had several electrical problems which have proven to be an enigma to Honda. My 2 year old was locked in the car in the heat of the summer due to locking problems with the car. Of course it took several months to prove to the dealer that there was indeed a problem. We have been loyal Honda/Acura drivers but are absolutely done with American Honda. Do not be taken advantage of by the high price tags assurance of superior service.

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  A - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By SavedFromDodge - April 8 - 2:00 am

  Thought I would never own a Minivan and purchased a Dodge Durango in 1999 for the 7 passenger seating. What a piece of garbage... I will NEVER buy another Dodge or domestic automobile. We own a 99 Accord V6 and now a 03 Odyssey with Entertainment and Leather. This VAN handles and performs very well, I think I am behind the wheel of our Accord. I drove em all (VANs) out there and nothing compared to the Odyssey. I got to sit in new Toyota Sienna at the local car show recently. Looks cheap and does not stand up to the Odyssey. The 3rd row seat is like 2 inches thick. Nice try Toyota ... but, not quite there yet.

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  Great Vehicle - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By Scarhill - April 3 - 4:03 pm

  Purchased the Odyssey (EX-L w/RES) a little over a week ago. I have had minivans for nearly 20 years. I had always resisted going for a Honda or Toyota because of the high selling prices. However, having put up with minivans from Ford and Dodge, I decided it was time to bite the bullet and put quality ahead of price. Looking at vehicles from Honda and Toyota, the Odyssey was clearly best for my purposes. Even though I have only had the vehilce for a week, the difference in quality between it and the domestics is obvious. I also got a good price on the vehicle, paying less than invoice. At this point, I couldnt be happier.

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  2003 Honda Odyssey LX - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By Arthur - April 3 - 12:22 am

  No major mechanical problems whatever in over 100,000 miles. Simple and smooth to drive. Enough power to carry quite heavy loads easily into the mountains. Extremely reliable.

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  wheel bearings - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By moussa m - April 2 - 9:55 pm

  Hard driven 96,000 miles, 1st real problem ever is front wheel bearings, gotten so bad so fast, was first mistaken for noisy out of alignment tires, @ 48 mph is worse, put car in neutral and cut off engine (in a safe manner) if noise remain it is a $850 repair job @ a Honda dealer. Watch out for the common scams, you have water in your transmission and your $700 engine mounts are broken, 2 @ $1400.1st ever brake pads in front, spark plugs but was not needed, 6 cd changer is stupid in todays cars, they break, mp3 is better and cheaper choice. Anyway dealers double charges you for everything, $60 for shop supplies? Engine mounts for $1400 and scare tactics youre going to crash, will hurt Hondas reputation.

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  The best minivan one could buy! - 2001 Honda Odyssey
  By ton - April 2 - 4:16 am

  Since I drove it off the dealer, there was no problems. The power sliding doors works fine, the engine is silky smooth just like a lexus or better. The interior is very roomy, it is even roomier than its rival, the town and country. On my Starlight Silver Honda Odyssey EX, I have installed customized PIAA fog lights and wind deflectors to make the van distinct from others.

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  Disappointed in car & dealership!!! - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By vee - April 1 - 8:23 am

  I followed consumer reports recommendation and purchased the odyssey. Overall I like the car, but am disappointed with the service I have received at the dealership and repair problems. At 74,000 the catalytic converter had to be replaced. Five days later the check engine light came on. I was told the rear converter needs replacement! Does the car really have two converters or are they giving me the run around! Im currently waiting for the new part to be installed. Thank God I dont have to pay for the repairs (covered under the federal emissions warranty)... I was overcharged for a previous repair by $300. It took over a week to straighten the problem out!

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  Love my Odyssey!! - 2018 Honda Odyssey
  By James547 - April 1 - 1:01 am

  I owned a 2011 Toyota Sienna. It started having too many problems for me to justify keeping it, especially considering its only 6 years old. I had to replace both sliding door motors, drivers door lock, front and rear rotors, several small engine repairs ($870 worth). I test drove both the Chrysler Pacifica and Odyssey. The Odyssey won, hands down. The PacificaStinky styling was too funny for me, some of the interior materials seemed very cheaply made, and the rear seats and head room were pathetic, along with the infotainment system. I picked up my 2018 Odyssey Touring last week. So far, owning it has been an absolute joy. The features I love most is the way it drives. Its quick, very responsive, and the steering feel and control is amazing. It drives much more like a car or sporty SUV than a van, certainly tons better than the Sienna. I rides so well, too. The seats are amazing for me, a 197 lb. 6.0 ft. tall guy, and a good amount of headroom, even in the second row! The rear seats are just as comfortable as the front, unlike the new Chrysler Pacifica that we also test drove. The rear seats were unbelievably uncomfortable in the Pacifica, most likely due to less padding for the seat to fit and fold down into the floor. Id much rather have comfortable seats that dont fold into the floor. The sliding second row seats are also incredible and useful. I have 2 kids and a wife, so usually the third row seat isnt occupied. But If it is, we still have plenty of room for cargo in the trunk!! The infotainment system is very quick and lag-free, also very unlike the sluggish Pacifica infotainment. We didnt get the Elite trim because we dont need the CabinWatch or CabinTalk feature, because my kids are grown. We chose the Touring trim over the EX-L mostly for the extra safety features. We love the features, especially LaneKeep Assist which definitely adds peace of mind while driving at night or when tired. I honestly have zero complaints with my van so far! If something comes up Ill definitely update my comment. If you want a fun to drive family hauler with impressive features, the Odyssey is for you. Definitely worth a test drive!!

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  Reliable but....... - 2000 Honda Odyssey
  By frogdaddy - March 30 - 9:03 pm

  I have to say this vehicle never left me on the side of the road somewhere. 118k without having transmission fail. Spent over 6k in scheduled recommended maintenance and wear. Including things I wouldnt expect to fail so soon..... Auto sliding door junction boxes, Motor mounts, and EGR. Did I mention EGR? Reason for that is I had it serviced under recall and it still need service for same issue yet I had to pay $700 for it. Ugh!!!

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  3 Transmissions Later - 2000 Honda Odyssey
  By usedcaralways - March 29 - 10:42 am

  The first year we owned our van was great. Starting with the first summer our luck ran out and every summer for 3 years wed have to replace the transmission. Honda helped us out once but after that we were on our own. During research my husband found out that the transmission used on this 2000 model had so many problems that Honda never used it again. Today we still own it but are hunting for another vehicle because our 3rd transmission has started to act up and before it dies we need to get out of this money pit of a car. we were a couple hundred from paying it off but instead are putting that money towards another vehicle. My husband swears well never own another Honda again.