Honda Cars Philippines had a great idea when they launched the Odyssey. Since they didn’t have a minivan in their product line, what if they crossed up the characteristics of the big sedan and a minivan? Sounds good? Well, not only did it sound good but it turned out better.
The Honda Odyssey filled the need for a spacious sedan that can seat 7 people, without looking like a van. Sort of like a big station wagon with sliding doors. Although they were not the first to introduce such a model, but Honda managed to make it luxurious, both in aesthetics and features.
INTERIOR
The Odyssey we tested had a full leather seats. The cushion were soft and comfortable; from the front, to the rear seats. The best seats in the “House were the Captain’s chair. full reclining with an ottoman feature, which is much like the coveted “Lazy Boy” sofa. Pampering is the name of the game.
The full service Captain’s chair 
…also with shoulder adjustment
Third row seats 
with power outlets and HDMI
ENGINE
The powertrain is a 2.4-liter, DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine mated to a CVT transmission with Earth Dreams Technology. Output is 173 hp at 6,200 rpm and 226 Nm at 4,000 rpm. Sounds good, but with the size and weight of the whole package, speed and fuel efficiency suffers. Our consumption average for city driving was only 5-6km/L – even with the Econ button on. Well, luxury has a price.
EXTERIOR
Overall, the basic shape of the Odyssey is appealing, looking more like a performance Estate model instead of a minivan. The fascia consists of the trademark platinum front grille, surrounded by LED dual projector-type headlights, LED daytime running lights. The rear also has LED tail lamps for better illumination.
The sedan-like stance makes ingress-egress easier; no stretching or climbing, just slip into the seats. Automatic sliding doors also gives easier access to the third row seats, and also attracts the attention of onlookers.
Safety
Features such as All-around airbags, ABS and EBD to Vehicle Stability Assist and Hill Start Assist. One pleasant surprise is the Smart Parking Assist system, which works like an overhead satellite camera. The Odyssey is equipped with 4 wide-angle cameras that blend the view into a big overhead simulation that is very accurate, giving the driver more freedom to navigate tight parking quarters and avoid obstructions without fear.
Variants
There are only two variants of the Odyssey. The
Odyssey EX Php 2,138,000
- Aero Bumper
- Platinum Grille
- Fog Lights
- 16″ Alloy Wheels
- 8-Seater Capacity
- Fold-flat Magic Seats
- 7″ Touch Screen Display Audio
- Smart Entry with Push Start System
- Multi-View Reverse Camera
Odyssey EX-V Navi Php 2,498,000
- New Aero Bumper
- Dark Chrome Grille
- LED Headlights and LED Daytime Running Lights
- New 17″ Alloy Wheels
- Captain Cradle Seats with Ottoman, Armrest and Holder
- 9″ Rear Entertainment System with HDMI and DVD
- 7″ Touch Screen Dispplay Audio with Navigation
- Smart Parking Assist System
- Cross-Traffic Monitor
- Blind-Spot Information
- 8-Way Power Seat
- Sunroof
- Multi-View Camera System (4 Wide-Angle Cameras) and Reverse Camera with Guidelines
The Odyssey EX-V Navi is a versatile luxury vehicle that gives you your money’s worth. Travelling in style is the key here. Sure, it’s pricey but you get what you pay for. And its a Honda.
Text/Images by Earl Manalansan
