Honda Odyssey Overview
The Honda Odyssey is a seven-passenger minivan available in LX, EX, EX-L and Touring trim levels. The LX features full power accessories, cruise control, side curtain airbags, stability control and a CD player. The EX adds 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 version provides leather seating, heated seats, a power tailgate, rain guards and a sunroof. The Touring adds triple-zone climate control, driver memory seat, AC power outlet, power-adjustable pedals, foglights, parking sensors, a second-row removable center console, run-flat tires and a tire-pressure monitoring system. A rear entertainment system and a navigation system with Bluetooth are optional on the EX-L and Touring.
For power, the Honda Odyssey relies on a 244-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. The EX-L and Touring trim levels feature Variable Cylinder Management, or VCM, which improves the Odyssey's fuel efficiency by shutting down three of the engine's six cylinders during cruising and deceleration. When power is needed for acceleration, the engine seamlessly switches back to all six cylinders.
On the road, the Odyssey impresses thanks to its smooth V6 and unusually stable handling. Inside, Honda's minivan boasts tight build quality and spacious, comfortable seating areas. Despite its elevated road noise and somewhat dated interior, the Odyssey remains a favorite of car experts.