History/Overview
Honda's Odyssey began in the 1990s when this minivan was a glorified Accord station wagon, complete with four swing-out doors. Since then, it's grown into a proper minivan with two sliding rear doors. Honda redesigned the Odyssey into a fifth generation for the 2018 model year.
What's New / Key Changes from Last Year
New for 2020, the Odyssey comes standard with a 10-speed transmission that was previously reserved for the top-end Touring trim level.
Available Trims
Honda offers the Odyssey in LX, EX, EX-Res (which stands for rear entertainment system), EX-L Res, EX-L Navi and Touring. All use a V6 engine with variable cylinder deactivation and the aforementioned 10-speed automatic. All Odyssey models are front-wheel drive only.
Standard Features
Standard in all Odyssey models are LED taillights, variable intermittent wipers, 18-inch alloy wheels, capless fuel filling, an electric parking brake, two 12-volt power outlets, 15 drink holders, conversation mirror, dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth, passive keyless entry, power windows, tilt-and-telescopic steering column adjustments, eight-way power driver's seat and four-way power front passenger seat, heated front seats, a seven-speaker stereo and display audio with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Standard safety and driver assist features include automatic high beams, forward collision warning with automatic braking, lane departure warning, road departure mitigation, tire pressure monitoring, adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist.
EX upgrades include LED daytime running lights, a right-side blind spot camera monitor, fog lights, sunroof, power sliding doors, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, garage door opener, built-in vacuum, second-row side sunshades, near field communication for smartphone pairing, three-zone climate control, a second-row armrest and a 12-way power driver's seat with four-way lumbar.
EX-Res adds a 115-volt power outlet, the CabinTalk in-car PA system, and a rear-seat entertainment system with 10.2-inch screen.
EX-L Res brings an acoustic windshield, front and rear parking sensors, memory-linked side mirrors and driver's seat, power tailgate, a third 12-volt power point, a heated and leather-trimmed steering wheel, and satellite radio.
EX-L Navi trim gains navigation.
Finally, Touring trim adds blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic monitoring, acoustic front and rear door glass, auto on/off headlights, rain-sensing front wipers, 19-inch wheels, ambient interior lighting, CabinWatch rear-seat monitor, third-row sunshades, wireless smartphone charging, ventilated front seats, an 11-speaker stereo, WiFi hotspot, and HondaLink subscription services.
Fuel Economy
Honda's fuel consumption estimates for the 2020 Odyssey are 12.2/8.5 L/100 km (city/highway).
Competition
Honda's minivan competitors come from the few manufacturers that have, so far, refused to give up on this practical vehicle type. They are the Toyota Sienna, Kia Sedona, Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Pacifica.
