1 / 4Illustrative AI renders — not manufacturer photographs.
Honda Odyssey
America's family hauler, refined and reliable
Honda Odyssey review
The Honda Odyssey is the minivan that quietly does everything a growing family needs. Powered by a smooth 280-hp V6 and a roomy, configurable cabin, it leans on clever seating, generous cargo space and a long reputation for reliability rather than flashy gimmicks. It isn't the newest design on the block and it skips all-wheel drive, but for hauling kids, gear and the occasional road trip, few rivals feel as effortlessly practical day to day.
On the road, the Odyssey is defined by its 3.5-liter V6 and 10-speed automatic, a combination that delivers genuinely strong, quiet acceleration for a vehicle this size. Merging onto highways and passing slower traffic never feels like a chore, and the ride is composed and comfortable over broken pavement. Steering is light and accurate enough for a van, and while you'll never call it sporty, the Odyssey hides its bulk well and feels stable and planted at speed.
The cabin is where this minivan earns its keep. The second-row Magic Slide seats shift sideways and fore-and-aft to ease access to the third row or to separate squabbling kids, and on higher trims the seats can be removed for a cavernous load bay. Cargo space behind the third row is generous, and folding everything flat opens up a genuinely van-like volume. Material quality is good if not luxurious, and the driving position is commanding and easy to live with.
Technology is a mixed bag. The available CabinWatch camera and CabinTalk intercom are genuinely useful for keeping tabs on rear passengers, and rear-seat entertainment is offered on top trims. The infotainment system works fine but feels a step behind newer rivals in graphics and speed, and the lack of any hybrid or all-wheel-drive option is increasingly noticeable as competitors offer both. Fuel economy is average for the class rather than impressive.
Value depends on trim. Lower grades undercut some rivals while still offering the core practicality, but loaded Elite models climb into territory where a hybrid Toyota Sienna looks tempting on running costs. Honda's strong resale and reliability record helps offset that, and for buyers who prioritize space, comfort and dependability over the latest tech, the Odyssey remains a smart, no-drama choice.
Pros & cons
What we like
- Smooth, punchy V6 engine
- Flexible Magic Slide seating
- Huge, usable cargo space
- Strong reliability and resale
- Comfortable, quiet ride
What could be better
- No hybrid or AWD option
- Average fuel economy
- Infotainment feels dated
- Top trims get pricey
Honda Odyssey price & variants
| Variant | Fuel / Transmission | Starting MSRP |
|---|---|---|
| EX Best value | GasolineAutomatic | $42,220 |
| EX-L | GasolineAutomatic | $45,620 |
| Sport-L | GasolineAutomatic | $47,120 |
| Touring | GasolineAutomatic | $49,520 |
| Elite | GasolineAutomatic | $52,820 |
Key specifications
Model Overview
Engine & Transmission
Dimensions & Capacity
Fuel & Performance
Comfort & Convenience
Safety
Honda Odyssey colours
Platinum White PearlExpert rating breakdown
Owner reviews
Does everything our family needs
We swapped a midsize SUV for the Odyssey and never looked back. The sliding doors and second-row seats make car seat duty so much easier, and the V6 has real power on the highway. I just wish it got better gas mileage on our commute.
Great space, dated screen
Tons of room for three kids plus all their gear, and the ride is super comfortable on long trips. The infotainment feels a generation behind my old car, but the CabinWatch camera is a lifesaver for checking on the little ones.
Reliable workhorse
Two years in and not a single problem. It hauls the whole soccer team plus equipment without complaint. My only gripe is that I wish Honda offered a hybrid version like the Sienna, because fuel costs add up with all our driving.
Alternatives to the Honda Odyssey
Honda Odyssey — frequently asked questions
Does the Honda Odyssey come with all-wheel drive?
No. The Odyssey is front-wheel drive only across every trim. If you need all-wheel drive in a minivan, the Toyota Sienna is the main alternative.
Is there a hybrid Odyssey?
No, Honda does not offer a hybrid Odyssey in the US. It uses a 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine on all trims, so rivals like the Sienna and Pacifica lead on efficiency.
How many people can the Odyssey seat?
Most trims seat up to eight passengers with a bench second row. Some configurations offer captain's chairs that reduce capacity to seven.
What is the real-world fuel economy?
Expect around 22 MPG combined, roughly 19 in the city and 28 on the highway. Heavy city driving or a full load will bring that figure down.
How much cargo space does it have?
There's generous space behind the third row for groceries and luggage, and folding the third row plus removing the second-row seats opens up a very large, flat cargo area for big loads.
Is the Odyssey reliable?
Yes, the Odyssey has a strong reputation for reliability and holds its value well. Routine maintenance and timely service keep the V6 and transmission running dependably for years.
Image is an AI-generated illustration. Specifications and prices are indicative and may vary by variant and city — please confirm with an authorized dealer. Last updated 2026-06-25.