Not many people want to be seen driving a minivan anymore—the 2023 Honda Odyssey probably won't change their minds Show
Published Jul 09, 2023 • Last updated Jul 09, 2023 • 9 minute read  If there’s one thing you should know about me, it’s that I love minivans. I always have — even before I had kids — and I’m pretty sure I always will. Minivans are so practical and convenient, and they’re the ultimate family haulers. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. The Honda Odyssey was my original favourite, but there is some stiff competition in this dying segment that’s only left with five minivans in the Canadian market. The 2023 Honda Odyssey is a solid option if you’re in the market for a spacious ride, but is there anything about the Odyssey that makes it truly stand apart from the rest? Why would anyone want a minivan?It is what it is, right? It’s just a minivan, a simple one. The exterior screams minivan. It’s like the Odyssey’s begging me to become the “soccer mom” even though none of my kids are into soccer. There isn’t much I’d change about the way it looks because it isn’t meant to make any kind of fashion statement. However, if I could change one thing, it would be standard body-coloured door handles, which are currently only offered on the top trim — I just like it better when they match the vehicle. Learn more about the cars
This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Speaking of those handles, the best part of a minivan are the sliding doors, and the several different ways to open them, one of the ways being the handle. But there’s also the open/close button that’s easily accessible to the second row passengers, who can also use the inner handles; there are the buttons beside the steering wheel; and there are separate buttons on the key fob for each side of the vehicle. What else do you need??? You don’t have to worry about parking in a tight(ish) spot, because unlike other vehicles where the door won’t open wide enough for me to lift and squeeze my youngest into the car and into her car seat, the doors slide open to easily and efficiently get to a child’s seat.
This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. How spacious is the Honda Odyssey?A spacious interior is high on the list of needs for a minivan owner, and that means space in every row, as well as copious amounts of space in the trunk, even with the third row up. In the Honda Odyssey, with the third row up, you’ll get 929 litres of space, which is wayyy more than what you’d get in some three-row SUVs. You’ll have no problem fitting luggage, Costco hauls, strollers, or whatever else you can throw inside for an average day out with the family. If you’re intent on needing more space, with the third row folded flat, you’ll get 2,452 litres. Back to that third row of seating; passengers back there still have ample legroom plus a USB charger in the third row. Step up into the second row and there’s access to two more USB chargers, as well as a clear view of the 10.2 inch screen that houses the rear seat entertainment, which unlike many other vehicles, is still synced to a Blu-ray player at the front of the cabin. I’m not usually a fan of rear seat entertainment, because the kids fight over who gets to pick the movie, but I do like the “How Much Farther” app that is connected to the navigation system at the front — it kept my kids occupied for quite some time. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. All 14 Photos for Gallery Full Screen is not supported on this browser version. You may use a different browser or device to view this in full screen. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. One interesting thing to note is that navigation is usable while you’re driving, which is something that many manufacturers choose to disable while the car is moving. It’s convenient if you’ve got someone in the front passenger seat who can punch in the destination while you’re driving, instead of having to come to a complete stop to look up the directions. The second row in the Odyssey are dubbed ‘Magic Slide’ seats. There’s the option of having a smaller middle seat in between the two captain’s chairs in the second row, which allows the minivan to seat eight people. The middle seat can also be folded down to access cup holders, or it can be taken out completely, which is where the magic happens… and by that, I mean you can slide the outer seats together which gives third row passengers a simple way out of the vehicle, or slide them apart to separate a couple fighting kids. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Moving forward again, the front seats are comfortable and power adjustable with standard heated front seats and heated steering wheel; ventilated front seats are only available in the top two trims. There’s also a ton of storage space which is exactly what I want and need! The centre console storage holds quite a bit, in addition to the USB port needed if you’re connecting your phone to Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Side note: there’s a USB port right below the Blu-ray player, but that’s solely for charging a phone, which is weird since there’s a wireless phone charger right beside the centre console, which is likely where you’ll put your phone while it’s connected to CarPlay, but it’ll already be charging through the wire. Basically, what I’m trying to say is that up front, you probably don’t need a wireless charger or extra USB charging port. Let’s move on… This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. The centre console doesn’t connect to anything, so there’s storage space to fit oddly-shaped baby bags or purses in that slot. But I’d be extremely cautious about what you place in that area — if an object might easily move, I’d reconsider storing it there as it’s dangerously possible to rolling into the driver’s foot area, potentially obstructing the pedals. I’m not a fan of the button mode selectors but it’s not the worst thing in the world. I’ll gladly keep those buttons if it also means the continuation of HVAC buttons that are so simple to use — even though some of the functions are within the screen, it’s easy to get to with a tap of the “FRONT CLIMATE” button. The infotainment system is super basic and easy to use, especially if you’ve got CarPlay connected — my only quibble that neat freaks will share is that when it’s sunny, there’s a slight glare on the screen making fingerprints extremely noticeable. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Is a minivan fun to drive?So, if it looks like a minivan and has the practicality and spaciousness required of a minivan, then does that mean it drives like a minivan? Yes. It’s not the quickest to pick up speed when you’re driving on the highway, especially if you’re in Econ mode. But in this case, it really is form over function, right? It’s not the worst drive by any means — though I definitely wouldn’t call it fun — it’s quiet and smooth. Its standard 3.5L V6 puts out 280 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque, via a 10-speed automatic transmission. And if you’re wondering how the Honda Odyssey does on fuel, well, it has the fuel consumption of a minivan that isn’t the hybrid Sienna. The front-wheel drive Odyssey has an NRCan combined rating of 10.6 litres per 100 kilometres, which is right on par with the other minivans in this segment, save for that hybrid Sienna. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Compare the specs of all available minivans in Canada2023 Honda Odyssey Canadian pricing and competitionNew minivan sales are dying, we know that. Yet, we still see countless minivans on the road. I’ll go on record as saying that the minivan crisis starts with its price. Sure, minivans aren’t cool — who, other than myself, wants to be seen driving a minivan? However, despite my love for minivans, I’m not in the minivan market for its stylish looks. I want it because it’s convenient and practical, and that generally means that I don’t want to be spending someone’s university tuition on a minivan. The Odyssey has a base price of $45,590. This tested Touring costs $56,790 and the top Black Edition trim, which is new for 2023 will cost over $60,000 when you add the destination fee of $2,000 and quite frankly, I can live without red ambient lighting. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. All 10 Photos for Gallery Full Screen is not supported on this browser version. You may use a different browser or device to view this in full screen. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Personally, I don’t love any minivan enough to drop $60k on it, especially when it’ll largely be used by dirty kids who will trek snow and snacks into every crease. Used vehicle prices are high, but it’s still a lot lower than buying it brand new. Price-wise, the 2023 Kia Carnival starts at $35,795 — a whole $10k less than a new Odyssey. It’s not my first choice for a minivan but if you’re looking for something brand new and family hauling is the main goal, then the Carnival has its advantages. The true competition comes at the hands wheels of Honda’s longtime rival, and you really should test drive the Toyota Sienna. While we know Honda fans will stick with the Odyssey, it’s important to note that new Siennas are hybrid across the lineup and have similar pricing to the Odyssey, meaning you’ll save some money on gas. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. But maybe money isn’t an option. You want a fancy minivan and don’t care if your kids ruin it with dirty hands. Well, since North America isn’t getting the Lexus LM and we’ll probably never get our hands on Kim Kardashian’s custom Maybach minivan, there’s the Chrysler Pacifica Pinnacle that costs upwards of $70,000 — there’s a hybrid version but the non-hybrid includes the Stow ’n Go seats, and that’s the most important part. I guess, technically, there’s also the 2025 Volkswagen ID.Buzz and it looks all sorts of amazing, but it’s not here yet. The retro-designed EV will be be offered with either five (a Canadian exclusive), six, or seven seats. We don’t have exact range figures or Canadian pricing yet, but it’s sure to be a game-changer in the minivan segment. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Then again, maybe you just want to stick to the traditional basics, and if you want a basic minivan, you can’t go wrong with a Honda Odyssey. It has provided years of proven reliability for families around the world. Sure, minivans may be labelled as the “soccer mom” vehicle and they’re not the most modern looking — the van, not the mom — but they’re practical — both the van and the mom. Final thoughtsDuring my week with the Odyssey, I had to do an airport drop off. As my friend hopped into the front passenger seat, she remarked, “Oh, you have your car this week,” referring to my 2014 Honda Odyssey, about which she was wrong. In nearly 10 years, the Odyssey hasn’t changed a whole lot in the intervening decade, but in the front cabin the most noticeable differences are probably the removal of the double screens (one of which is a touch screen). And while the centre console remains unconnected in both models, the older one has a lot more storage areas up front. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. If you’re in the market for a Honda Odyssey, it’s important to note that you’ve got a couple options to ponder:
No matter which option you choose, one thing is for certain — the kids will make a mess in it. And for that reason, it would be awesome if Honda could bring back the in-car vacuum. It won’t help minivan sales, but it’s still a really cool feature that I really miss. Check out the latest Honda Odyssey model. Click here for more Millennial Mom’s Reviews. Renita NaraineSoon after joining the Driving.ca team in 2021 as an online editor, Renita also began writing car reviews under the Millennial Mom title. When she isn’t overwhelmed by her three kids, you’ll likely find her writing about them throughout her reviews of family vehicles - her favourites being anything within the minivan segment. Whenever she gets the chance, Renita also likes to spin some pop culture into her reviews. SummaryCurrent online editor at Driving.ca Specializes in car reviews with a lifestyle approach, focusing on family aspects, such as whether you can fit three car seats side-by-side in a car Millennial mom ExperienceWhile many of her colleagues have been in the auto industry for numerous years, Renita is new to the field - having dabbled in a variety of areas throughout her career. Soon after graduating from Durham College, she worked as an editor and writer with Tribute Entertainment Media Group (the magazines that used to be in movie theatres). Other interesting experiences Renita has had throughout the last 15 years include - but are definitely not limited to - working in a portrait studio, taking a TESL (teaching English as a second language) course, as well as receiving a medical office administration diploma that led her to work some eye-opening night shifts in the ER. More recently, she graduated from Seneca’s PR and Communications program where she was encouraged to start a parenting blog. EducationRenita graduated from the Journalism program at Durham College, where she studied both print and broadcast. She also received a post-graduate Certificate in Public Relations and Internal Communications from Seneca College. Contact infoEmail: [email protected] All things automotive: breaking news, reviews and more. Wednesdays and Saturdays. By clicking on the sign up button you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. You may unsubscribe any time by clicking on the unsubscribe link at the bottom of our emails or any newsletter. Postmedia Network Inc. | 365 Bloor Street East, Toronto, Ontario, M4W 3L4 | 416-383-2300 A welcome email is on its way. If you don't see it, please check your junk folder. The next issue of Driving.ca's Blind-Spot Monitor will soon be in your inbox. We encountered an issue signing you up. Please try again Notice for the Postmedia Network This website uses cookies to personalize your content (including ads), and allows us to analyze our traffic. Read more about cookies here. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. Is the 2023 Honda Odyssey quiet?While you're transporting your passengers and cargo, you're going to be incredibly comfortable. That's because the 2023 Honda Odyssey also has the quietest cabin in its class . What are people paying for 2023 Honda Odyssey?2023 Honda Odyssey MSRP and Invoice Price. Is it worth it to buy a Honda Odyssey?Is the 2024 Honda Odyssey a Good Minivan? Yes, the 2024 Odyssey is a fantastic minivan. We named the Odyssey our 2024 Best Minivan for the Money because it has the best combination of quality and value in its class. This Honda has comfortable and spacious seating, a capable V6 engine and a gentle ride. How does Honda Odyssey rank?It comes in a close second on our Best Minivans list, right behind the more efficient, hybrid-powered Toyota Sienna. The Odyssey has a well-earned reputation for its excellent safety and reliability ratings, roomy interior, and innovative, family-friendly features like second-row captain's chairs that slide sideways. |
