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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  Odyssey is a great car - 2008 Honda Odyssey
  By 740drvr - April 16 - 9:40 pm

  We have two you school age children and carpool with two more. Our 2002 E320 wagon has been a great vehicle, but we need two 7 passenger cars. After driving the CX9, Acadia, and Enclave we looked at an Odyssey. While minivans may not be "cool" there was simply no comparison in the way the Odyssey functioned compared to the others. Our new Odyssey drives smoothly, rides without wallowing, gets good MPG, has a tight turning circle and more traveling comfort than anything on the market.

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  What more could you ask for? - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Stephanie Taylor - April 14 - 5:12 am

  Sure, the 2005 are a lot better looking inside and out, but whos got $15,000 more dollars when you can get an 04 thats just as good. Weve had ours a week. We shopped around for almost 6 months. It was between the Sienna and this. The Honda looks better outside. The Sienna has more "cubby holes" and looks a little fancier. But as far as SAFETY, RELIABILITY, RESALE VALUE, and LOOKS..Hondas got everyone beat. Your kids are the most precious thing, and you would want them to be as safe as possible... what are you going to trust? A van thats won the "Safest Car on the Road" for like 5 years now... HONDA ODYSSEY! Has that sporty feel, takes corners wonderfully, excellent for trips!

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  Odyssey Transmission Plague - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By jaybob - April 10 - 1:23 am

  Great van with one huge exception! Transmission failed at 22K new one on the way. A review of owner forums has revealed that this is an issue that Honda has either been able to fix or refuses (you would have think I purchased a Ford. I have read reviews that this is happening even with the 2005 model Odysseys. What gives Honda?

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  Our Odyssey Journey - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By SoSoOdyssey - April 8 - 7:09 pm

  We were on the market for a minivan (replace 97 Mercury Villager) in 2003, and set to Odyssey since Sienna was redesigned and hot (months of waiting just like Odyssey few months ago). We got good price on the LX ($300 below invoice). The first month the van was back to dealership twice for both front struts. Few months later, the AC was broken, then the clock light. Last month, the engine speed went up and down (between 2000 to 4000) while idling. The dealer replaced the idle control unit. The rear brakes always make noise, but the dealer says it is normal. We now have 23k m on the van, it has been in shop SEVEN(7) times. We have never had any problem with our Toyotas and the Villager.

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  Its ok...read and youll see why - 2016 Honda Odyssey
  By Mom who loves anything with 4 wheels - April 6 - 8:49 pm

  Been a Honda/Acura owner many times over. Acura RDX, 2 Accords, Civics, Pilot..so, I know my Hondas. And usually Im very, very happy with my purchase. So, after having second baby I decide a mini van would be a helpful choice as I am petite and loading a car seat would be much easier. At the time I had a fully loaded 2015 Nissan Platinum & had to be on my tip toes to put the car seat in. I looked at Toyota & Honda to compare and went with the Honda. Of course. I do like the overall appearance of the OD but was a little worried about not having AWD for CT winters. Anyways, Ive had it for 9 months now and feel I can write this review fairly. After leasing, which Im glad I did. I was actually excited to get it home. So, here are my pros and cons. The pros-the space! It is truly amazing how much you can fit in the van..grocery store/whole sale club kids, dog, strollers..I will give it that! Gas mileage is on point!! Another plus!! And ease for a three year old to climb in and enjoys the big windows and auto doors! The 3rd row is very roomy and comfy for adults!! The cons, no AWD..come on Honda (that is why I was looking at Toyota) Awful entertainment/console with pairing with iPhone, extremely frustrating when driving to operate, from changing songs to phone calls, and Im on my game with tech. Cant move seat to get to third row/so you have remove and store to get to 3rd...that commercial on tv is so right! Creaking tailgate, annoying tailgate alarm...that you cant shut off/the whole neighborhood hears you when you get home late at night! Acceraleration-when needing to move, it bucks. Definitely not a smooth transition. Height position of driver seat-when my husband drives feels like hes way too high and head is close to the ceiling. Minimal alert when low on gas, it beeps once (kids talking, music on-you wont hear it) and if you miss it...only your common sense will let you know how low you really are. Basically meaning if you look down and its orange..god only knows how long its been on. And then when you get gas and click(S) the cap like your suppose to sometimes an alert will stay on. The back up camera is awful on so many levels..one thing Nissan has is that 360 degree camera which should be standard on every car on the planet! Actually beeps when getting close to something. I actually have to open my honda door get out and look..eye roll. I actually could go on..but, Im going to stop. Im rating it a 3 stars because the overall day to day stuff gets under your skin & quick. And that overrides my decision. Ive kinda been bummed for the past few months with our choice. So, if you need space this is it. But, if your thinking of getting a mini van loaded go with the touring. As the lesser trim levels are not so good, well for us. We have the EX-L & back in the day of the old trim levels EX-L didnt exist/but, now its just an upgrade of leather. If you need roof racks you have to get the touring, if you want charging tools for your company in 3rd, you have to get the touring. Where Im going with this...is..for the price you can get a loaded AWD/4x4 Platinum with wayyyy more stuff in it-then a kid wagon. Step up your game Honda-this mini is boring and that overhaul is taking wayyyy too long!! I think Nissan will be getting our business next time around. I do miss my platinum amazing snow handling 2 wheel, AWD and a 4x4, unbelievable access to the 3rd row with car seats in, heated seats in both rows, double moon roofs, storage, off the chart nav, iPhone, 360 cam, all accessible from steering wheel, alarms when carts, people and stuff behind you, gas mileage, the works! Come on baby, turn front facing so mama can get back to an SUV!

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  Love It - Will Never Drive Anything Else - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By TaxiGirl - April 5 - 8:53 am

  I have nothing else to add except that this has to be the most amazing vehicle Ive ever driven. Spacious, yet drives like a car. My family loves riding in it (and watching DVDs on those long trips).

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  Satisfied but not overwhelmed - 2001 Honda Odyssey
  By bangzoom - April 4 - 6:38 pm

  Purchased new in Feb 2001. Has 73K miles. No major problems, replaced brakes @ 45K. Power Doors stick periodically and warning buzzer alarm goes off occasionally when hitting a bump in the road and wont turn off unless you stop, open and close the doors to reset. Dealer has attempted several times to fix and has not been able. Annoying wind noise over 65mph also can not be fixed by dealer. Light in clock went out @ 37K, and dealer wanted $300 to replace. Ill go timeless at night thank you. Disappointing gas mileage around town (15-16mpg). No breakdowns or major repairs. Overall I am satisfied.

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  "Odie the Odyssey" - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By P. Ravitsky - April 2 - 2:00 am

  My wife and I traded in our 1998 Grand Voyager SE in on the Odyssey, and couldnt be any happier with the choice we made. The kids love it. I know 2 other people who own these, and couldnt be any more happier than we are. Keep it up

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  It has been an Odyssey - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By Mike - April 1 - 11:20 am

  Before buying, we researched many vans and this came up on top in all. But after mystery electrical issues that have left us stranded 3x and having to replace all four tires after 18000 miles (at Hondas expense) makes me concerned for what the next 18000 miles will bring. It is a very comfortable van, nice features dont get me wrong. Fuel economy should be better, option for non-run flat tires should be there, and maybe the weight of the tires contribute to the lower mpg than even my brother in laws EX-L. Handles very well and VCM is unnoticeable.

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  Excellent Odyssey - 2000 Honda Odyssey
  By Don Benson - March 31 - 5:23 pm

  We finally purchased our first Honda. Its a 2000 Odyssey EX and we have quicky discovered how thoughtfully designed this upscale minivan is. We appreciate the automatic climate controls and excellent attention to detail. For example, our previous Ford Windstar could not handle a 4 x 8 sheet of plywood and the Odyssey can with the rear door shut. We certainly feel we made the right choice and look forward to many trouble free miles ahead.