The Honda Odyssey has always been one of our preferred people-transporters. It’s large, roomy and comfortable, and it has a surprising agility considering its bulk. But it’s rather pricey and looks too American. Last night, Honda Cars Philippines addressed these shortcomings in a single launch.
The Japanese carmaker unveiled the all-new Odyssey minivan, and it wasn’t what we expected. The new model is smaller and more stylish, and is packed with a raft of safety and convenience features. And unlike its predecessor, this Odyssey is made in Japan, thus the JDM look.
Honda calls it a “Solid Streamline” design, with its low platform and stance like a sedan’s. With power-sliding doors, entering and exiting the Odyssey is now easier and more accessible, something we’re sure women wearing skirts will appreciate. What all passengers will appreciate are the improved accommodations. There are seven seats inside, and four of those are captain’s chairs.
The second row has the best seats in this small mobile house. From here, passengers can enjoy the nine-inch drop-down rear entertainment system with DVD playback and HDMI connectivity. Other creature comforts include Bluetooth streaming, iPhone compatibility, USB ports and a classic CD player.
The driver may not get to enjoy the video capabilities of the Odyssey, but he will benefit from all the safety and security features available. There’s a multi-view camera system, smart parking assist (backing up and parallel parking), blind spot information, cross traffic monitor, airbags (front, side and side curtains), and a security alarm and immobilizer.
A more compact engine compared to the previous Odyssey is under the hood. The new model has a 2.4-liter i-VTEC in-line-four powerplant. It’s good for 173hp and 226Nm. An idle-stop system and Honda’s Econ Assist system help achieve better mileage. A CVT with paddle shifters will make the drive smooth, whether it’s in the city or out of town.
On the outside, the Odyssey embraces LED lighting, using it in the headlights, daytime running lights, active cornering lights and the taillamps. There’s also a tailgate spoiler with more LED lights in the form of a high-mount stop lamp.
The price of all this minivan goodness is P2,298,000, and you can have it in Premium Twinkle Black Pearl (plus an additional P20,000), White Orchid Pearl (plus P20,000, too), and Modern Steel Metallic. Available by order are Glamorous Mauve Pearl, Super Platinum Metallic, Carnelian Red Pearl and Crystal Black Pearl. A Mugen sport package consisting of genuine front grille, front lower grille, wing spoiler, door visor and luggage mat can be had for an extra P91,200.
The Odyssey’s new look and competitive price should make it an attractive option for those who want a plush MPV.
Photos by Tracy Carpena
