2008 Honda Odyssey Review examines one of the best minivans.

Friday, July 25, 2008

2008 Honda Odyssey Review

The Odyssey is a minivan that debuted in 1995, based of the Accord platform. The second generation came along in 1999, on a new, larger platform. The current model was released in 2005. It's since won several awards, including MotorWeek's "Best Minivan," the EPA's "Most Fuel Efficient Minivan," and Car and Driver's "Best Van."

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The Honda Odyssey is, in many ways, the ultimate minivan. With unparalleled fit and finish, and a number of available features usually relegated to luxury cars, it's the minivan to beat in this once thriving market. However, the competition has taken the challenge, and several models now meet or beat the Odyssey in bang for the buck. Still, the Honda is more refined than most, and it's interior is just about the best in its class.

What's New For 2008:

The Variable Cylinder Management system has been updated on the EX-L and Touring. The front fascia has been redesigned. New available features include Bluetooth, parking cameras and a power passenger seat. An audio input jack is now standard.

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power gives the Odyssey 3.5 stars for mechanical quality and overall performance and design. The Odyssey receives 2 stars in their overall design quality category. Problems with the last Odyssey include engine misfires, oil leaks, transmission issues, engine noise and door issues. It was recalled twelve times. The current Odyssey has had issues with frozen door handles, problematic gauges and dim headlights. It's been recalled six times for issues including loose fuse terminals, breaking fuel pump wires, flaky ABS, and insufficiently sealed airbag sensors. Expect average to below average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

The Odyssey earned perfect 5 star government crash scores. It also earned perfect IIHS scores, and has been named one of their "Top Safety Picks" for 2008. Anti-lock brakes, brake assist, full side airbags, a rollover sensor, and stability and traction control come standard. Run-flat tires and a backup camera are available.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Best Fuel Efficiency in Category
+ Perfect Safety Scores
+ Nice handling

Cons
- Numerous recalls
- Pricey
- No points for style

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Hyundai Entourage costs several thousand less, and other than lacking a power seat, matches up almost perfectly to the Odyssey in terms of features and power. The Kia Sedona costs a couple thousand less, but it costs more than the Entourage without offering anything more. The Nissan Quest costs less and matches up very well. While it lacks stability control, it has more passenger room.

What Others Are Saying:

"While the 2005 Odyssey establishes the new benchmark for the minivan segment with its lengthy list of standard features and advanced safety equipment, it might well have reached the maximum practical size for a family hauler (some say it may have exceeded it). It's certainly pushing the price to highs never seen before. Nonetheless, the Odyssey's innovative features, build refinement and all-around performance must have the competition tearing its hair (or would that be wiper blades?)." - About.com

"In fact, in a world based on political correctness, the Honda Odyssey would replace the automobile. It's space efficient, frugal and clean running. But until someone figures out a way to make the Odyssey and its ilk look sharp, minivanning will still be about as cool as driving a 70's station wagon." - The Truth About Cars

"The Honda Odyssey delivered more comfort level than any other minivan I have driven." - The Auto Channel

Read more about the 2008 Honda Odyssey at the Honda manufacturer web site.

Published on Wednesday, December 12, 2007 - Email to a friend

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