Review
Introduction
A bit more stylish, luxurious, and larger than its predecessor, the Odyssey is perhaps our favorite way to haul up to eight people in comfort. The universally copied in-floor stowage system for the third-row seat remains, as does the spacious interior.
But the Odyssey isn’t just about passenger comfort; it also provides the driver with an excellent driving experience, a fact that has helped the Odyssey win seven 5Best Trucks awards. Precise steering, a responsive engine, and a supple but stable suspension help the Odyssey deliver driving dynamics that even a car enthusiast could enjoy and appreciate. All Odyssey models are powered by a 3.5-liter V-6 that is connected to a smooth-shifting five-speed automatic transmission. The less expensive LX and EX models get a 244-hp version of the V-6. The EX-L and the Touring get cylinder deactivation, which costs the engine three horsepower but boosts fuel economy by 1 mpg in the city and 2 mpg on the highway. For 2008, the engine can shut down two or three cylinders; the cylinder-deactivation system could previously shut down only three cylinders.
As one might expect in a family-friendly minivan, the Odyssey comes with a full cadre of standard safety equipment. Stability control, curtain airbags, anti-lock brakes, front-seat active head restraints, and daytime running lights are all standard. For 2008, the Odyssey is available in four trim levels: LX, EX, EX-L, and Touring.
Major competitors to the Odyssey include the Chrysler Town & Country, the Dodge Grand Caravan, the GMC Acadia, the Hyundai Entourage, the Kia Sedona, the Mazda CX-9, the Nissan Quest, the Saturn Outlook, and the Toyota Sienna.
Verdict
The Odyssey is at the top of its class when it comes to features, passenger comfort, practicality, and driving dynamics. From a base price of less than $27,000 to models that start at more than $40,000, Honda builds an Odyssey for nearly every lifestyle and budget.
Click here to read our full review of the Honda Odyssey.
Click here to read our latest comparison test involving the Honda Odyssey.
What’s New for 2008
Honda’s Odyssey underwent a substantial redesign for 2006, so changes for 2008 are minor. A new grille and front bumper are subtly different, and the dashboard gets new graining and color options. LX and EX models get a new seat fabric. On models with fuel-saving cylinder-deactivation technology, the system can now shut down three or two cylinders as needed; the previous system could only shut down three cylinders at a time.
A Bluetooth hands-free phone system, a four-way power front passenger’s seat, a rearview camera integrated into the rearview mirror, and side-view mirrors that dip when reverse is selected are the new features for 2008. New safety equipment for 2008 includes front-seat active head restraints and daytime running lights.
