2022 Honda Odyssey – Test Drive, Reviews, Ratings, Specs
The Mini-Van isn’t Dead (Yet)
While cross-over SUV’s continue to roam the streets in droves, there’s still a place for the unreplaceable minivan. The box-like form factor might not be an aesthetic appeal, but the roominess, ease of use and full-size family practicality sustains in existence. Under test is the 2022 Honda Odyssey that’s fitted with a standard V-6 cylinder that offers plenty of road comfort and power in a front-wheel drive configuration. It’s also generously equipped with Honda-driver-assistance and safety features, entertainment amenities and tech features to keep up with the demands of the modern world.
Trims
Five trims area available with the starting LX trim priced at just $34,335 with the highest Elite trim topping off at $50,065. It’s a big range, but we’d recommend the mid-class EX-L trim at $41,000 that comes with leather seats, extra USB ports in the pack and a power rear lift gate for ease of access.
| LX | $34,335 |
| EX | $37,735 |
| EX-L | $41,000 |
| Touring | $45,045 |
| Elite | $50,065 |
Powertrain
All trims come with a standard naturally aspirated V-6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 212 lb.ft of torque. All trims also get a 10-speed automatic transmission in a front-wheel drive configuration (typical to all minivans). EPA rating on the Odyssey is rated at 19 mpg in the city and 28 on the highway – which is not bad in today’s terms. Unfortunately, the entire mini-van segment lacks more fuel-efficient alternatives such as a hybrid, or a smaller 4-cylinder turbocharged engine.
Interior, Comfort and Features
Regardless of seat rows, all passengers enjoy ease of access and road comfort thanks to its box-like form factor that offers plenty of leg and headroom. Second row seats also feature Honda’s “Magic Slide” seats that are standard on EX trims and up that allows second-row seats to slide side-to-side and back and forth for increased modularity.
Rear-passenger cameras are also fitted in the cabin space that’s displayed on the infotainment system to ensure kids in the back are intact and hasle free. Third-row passengers area easily folded down to create additional cargo space when needed.
EX trims and up get a standard 8″ infotainment touchscreen compatible with Android Auto and Apple Carplay for seamless smartphone connectivity. Both the graphics and features are relatively simple, but it’s very functional and easy to use with no flashy gimmicks imposed.
Test Drive and Final Thoughts
Thanks to its mini-van platform, the Honda Odyssey is exceptionally smooth and quiet. Front passengers also get excellent road visibility thanks to its fairly upright position with 2nd row passengers enjoying a plethora of space and comfort.
Although cross-overs continue to be very popular, there’s still a place for mini-vans. They’re more comfortable, fits more people and is easier to drive and use thanks to their sliding passenger doors. Unfortunately, the entire mini-van segment lacks more modern technologies like AWD for added stability and control, modern aesthetics and more fuel-efficient alternatives. As such, you’re stuck with a V-6 engine, but at least, it’s not entirely classified as a gas guzzler in today’s terms. We’d like to see more availability of hybrid engine options for the mini-van segment and hopefully today’s gas prices will make the push.