2013 Honda Odyssey: Honda Competing Minivan

Honda offers you their entry in the minivan category, the 2013 Honda Odyssey, more than ready to compete this year with its many nice features. The 2013 Odyssey is powered by a 3.5L V-6 engine that generates 248hp, 250 lbs. of torque and a fuel rating of 18 mpg city/27 mpg highway. At minimum, the Odyssey can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 8.4 seconds. It can tow loads weighing up to 3,500 lbs.

There is sufficient room for people and cargo. By removing the 2^nd row seats, the maximum cargo space is at 148 ft³. The floor area is wide enough to accommodate a laid down a 4X8 plywood sheet even with its tailgate closed. For passengers, the rear row of seats feature a sliding center section which makes it convenient for children passengers. Interior looks okay enough, although critics say the many button controls on the dashboard are a bit confusing for newbies.

There are five available trims- LX, EX, EX-L, Touring and Touring Elite. Features depend on the choice of trim, and also the no. of passengers accommodated. All Odyssey models have a rear privacy glass, full power accessories, cruise control, tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel, power driver seat, 2-zone air conditioning, an 8” multi-info display with Bluetooth and audio connectivity, a 7-speaker sound system w/ CD player, auxiliary audio jack and USB/iPod interface. More optional features become available in higher trims.

The 2013 Odyssey received good scores in safety and crash tests, getting good ratings in front and side impact protection and also in the roof strength test. Standard safety features include front seat side-impact airbags and side curtain airbags for the three rows of seats. It has antilock disc brakes, stability/traction control and front head restraints.

The 2013 Odyssey is mostly compared with a fellow Japanese minivan, the Toyota Sienna. The latter may have more power, but the Odyssey has better, more responsive handling and also has a very quiet cabin.

*Based on 2013 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.