Although technically labeled as a minivan, the 2013 Honda Odyssey competes with SUVs in terms of styling, cabin comfort and performance. The 3.5-liter V6 delivers fantastic acceleration and passing power with 248 horsepower and 250 pound-feet of torque. Depending on trim, it comes with either a five or six-speed automatic transmission. The five-speed manages to reach 60 mph in 8.4 seconds and returns 18 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. On the other hand, the coveted, the six-speed transmission in the Odyssey is a preferred choice, as it charges to 60 mph in 7.9 seconds and returns 19 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. It can even tow as much as 3,500 pounds, which is more than what the average driver needs. Steering is quite responsive and handling is crisp. This is a vehicle you will be confident in when switching lanes or merging on the highway. The ride is extremely smooth and the cabin remains silent thanks to Honda’s active noise-cancelling technology.
• Navigation - The satellite-linked navigation system provides crystal clear colored maps and turn-by-turn directions. FM traffic even updates traffic conditions in major cities.
• Audio - Although the audio system on lower trims is certainly not disappointing, the one available on Elite models is what music enthusiasts will be after. A 12-speaker surround sound system features 650 watts of power, 15 GB of music storage, CD player, USB audio interface and iPod integration.
• Rear Seat Entertainment System - Keep rear seat passengers entertained with this optional feature. A very generous size 16.2 inch screen offers split screen viewing capability and is compatible with gaming systems as well.
If you are hauling precious cargo, this is a vehicle you want to be in. Odyssey received top crash test scores in front, side and roof protection from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. It also has respectable braking capabilities, taking 130 feet to stop from 60 mph. An abundance of airbags can be found throughout, including side curtain ones that protect all three rows. Safety features to take note of include:
• Tire pressure monitoring
• Child seat anchors
• Electronic brakeforce distribution
• Emergency braking assist
• Stability control
• Rear door safety locks
• Seatbelt pretensioners
• Turn signal mirrors
• Dusk sensing headlamps
• Traction control
The Odyssey is perfect for someone who wants the convenience of a minivan with the sportier styling of an SUV. Its lightning bolt design boasts a modern and aerodynamic profile with attractive 18-inch alloy wheels that add to the aggressive styling. EX models and up even get power sliding doors.
One of the main highlights of the Odyssey is its generous size cabin. The second row seat is wide enough that you can literally fit three car seats across. The third row Magic Seat® is a breath of fresh air as well, as it folds completely into the floor with minimal effort, which is a lot nicer than some SUVs that require removal to open up the cargo area. The cabin is full of thoughtful features like a flip-up trash bag ring and a front console with storage that is completely removable. The only downfall is that on the Elite, you are faced with over 80 buttons on the dash, which can definitely be a bit intimidating.
Behind the third row, there is a generous 38.4 cubic feet of space. The seat hides in the floor with ease to open up more space, or you can remove the second row-seat to open up a total of 148.5 cubes.