2018 Honda Odyssey – Test Drive, Review, Ratings, Spec

The 2018 Honda Odyssey Proves Old Ways are Sometimes Better

No matter how many times you try to beat the idea into your head, the haggard, bland and even semi-miserable term of the mini-van just won’t die. Yes; even the modern trend of the more stylish and sporty 7-seater cross-over SUV’s just can’t mimic the purity of mini-van. With that said, the already proven Honda Odyssey from decades worth of existence, continues to push the envelope of styling and performance based off of an old-school blueprint. Honda is also proud to mention that its Odyssey engineers are owners of their creation themselves; so surely, there’s something more to expect than just a big capacity people mover.

Although 2018 marks the all new 5th generation of the Odyssey, its overall shapes and forms remain relatively intact.  What’s new to expect are added convenience and tech including more smartphone app capability that allows you to set the car’s destination, upload music, stream videos onto the rear entertainment LCD screens and even control the cabin temperature.  The cabin area can also be monitored by the front driver and passenger on the center console screen and the chassis dimensions have also been slightly tweaked to increase rigidity while shedding weight of up to 75 lbs depending on the trim.  There is also the configurable second row magic seats that allow each seat to be configured in up to 9 different seating configurations.

Honda isn’t the only ones to realize the benefits of the mini-van platform. The Dodge Caravan, Toyota Sienna and Nissan Quest all prove strong contenders to its class segment. Still, the Odyssey grips tightly on its throne status with its modern and distinctive styling, optional 8-seat capacity (available in the LX model), plenty of power, full-on safety and tech features and an awesome entertainment system for second and third row passengers to make long trips an enjoyable one.

 

Our Touring test model comes equipped with a center second row seating option that increases the standard mini-van passenger capacity from 7 to 8. Cushioning and support is less compared to the main second row seats; but is still considered a major added feature for increasing passenger capacity especially for longer road trips.

More Than Just Looks

There’s not a lot of excitement to be had when presented an opportunity to test-drive a mini-van. However; the virgin visual contact with the Honda Odyssey quickly reveals that it’s not a bad looking car at all. Despite its box-like chassis, the Honda Odyssey sits low; giving it a sportier and more aggressive stance. Its front fascia remains low-key while embossing the Honda signature front chrome grille, HID headlamps standard on all models, and optional larger 18″ wheels available on the Touring model for added character.  19″ wheels can be upgraded depending on trim that further adds a more aggressive look.

A slick feature available on the EX model and above includes a remote entry system capable of opening both its sliding doors on both sides and its power-activated trunk lift gate. And constructed with up to 59% of high-strength steel, the Honda Odyssey is able to lower its curb weight while improving chassis rigidity. The substantial engineering improvement results in a more responsive and predictable ride while lowering aerodynamic drag and fuel economy compared to its previous model.  Engineers have also emphasized efforts to make the cabin space quieter,

The Mechanicals

Standard across the Odyssey lineup is equipped with a proven 3.5L 24 valve SOHC i-VTEC engine producing a respectable 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. That’s an increase of 32 horsepower over last year’s generation.  Gear shifts are handled by either a 9 speed or 10-speed automatic transmission – the first to be deployed on onto a front-wheel drive and mini-van vehicle.

Benefiting from the front-wheel drivetrain configuration, the Odyssey provides ample torque on demand that feels surprisingly light and capable during acceleration. Compromised by its fundamental design though, the heavier rear weight bias does make any front-wheel drive mini-van design prone to slipping on wet surfaces. Cornering is somewhat well-behaved and predictable, and its suspensions react well enough to stabilize the the car under centrifugal load.  Steering has also been revamped with a new rack and pinion electric power steering which proved to be buttery smooth and responsive on the road.

Safety features include standard ABS and vehicle stability assist and control to help improve cornering accuracy by reducing vehicle under and over-steer and improving traction on wet and slippery surfaces. There is no shortage of safety tech features either. This category includes lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring via cameras mounted on its side-view mirrors, forward collision warning and rear-view backup camera. The top Touring model even surprisingly comes with a built-in Shop-Vac vacuum cleaner.

Final Thoughts

Despite its size, the Honda Odyssey is an overall easy car to drive on a daily basis. It’s the combination of its massive front windshield, properly designed ergonomics, spaciousness and natural driving behavior provided by its naturally aspirated V6. EPA is rated at 19/28/22 mpg. With that said, it might not be the most practical car to drive (even though you could) on a fuel economy standpoint. Our 2018 Honda Odyssey Touring model is priced in at $50,290 and this includes heated leather trimmed interior seats, enlarged 18″ wheels remote entry system and 8 passenger seating configuration.

For pure family functionality, the Honda Odyssey is hard to beat. One of the drawbacks inherent in any mini-van design is the absence of AWD, which makes it less immune to harsh weather conditions. That is where a 7-seater cross-over SUV comes into play. But even with that said, the awesomeness of space, entertainment amenities and overall easy car to drive on a daily basis helps keep the mini-van spirit alive and I don’t see it dying anytime soon.

Specifications

• Vehicle : 20168Honda Odyssey
• Model : Odyssey Touring
• Vehicle Type : Mini-Van
• Seating Capacity : 2+3+3
• Engine : 3.5L V6
• Horsepower: 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque
• Transmission :  9 speed manual
• Price as tested: $50,262

Pros

• Ultra-spacious interior
• Modern styling despite its mini-van box-like chassis
• Practical and overall easy to drive

Cons

• Large form factor makes the Odyssey a clumsy every-day driver
• Lack of AWD makes the Odyssey susceptible to wet and slippery conditions.
• Fuel Economy is not at today’s expectations due to its naturally aspirated V6