It’s been a while since three-row SUVs started overshadowing traditional minivans. While most of the market is about crossovers, there are still a couple of minivans remaining, including the Odyssey. Honda’s minivan has been around for decades and it has always been known for refined mechanics, decent handling and overall ride quality. The current generation is no exception. Moreover, it also brings a higher level of luxury and convenience, which makes this vehicle quite luxurious. Furthermore, the 2021 update made the current generation fresh and competitive, so we presume that bigger changes won’t happen in the next year or so.
However, there are sources that suggest a couple of updates for the next year. Allegedly, the next year’s model is about to get a new powertrain. Besides the well-known V6, we could also see a hybrid version. At this point, details are still unknown but it looks like we could see a PHEV setup. That model could arrive already in the second half of 2023.
2024 Honda Odyssey Design
As we’ve just mentioned, the current generation has a few more years before it gets a full redesign. Therefore, we presume that the next year’s model will come with a familiar layout, featuring the same design and features as the 2023 model. This means that you may count on the same aesthetics that were introduced with the 2021 update, which have brought various novelties, such as new headlights, new grille, new bumpers, new tailgate etc. All these things made the vehicle look fresher and more attractive, so we are pretty sure that bigger changes won’t occur before the full overhaul.
The same thing goes for mechanics. We are about to see the same setup, which has a lot of things in common with the mid-size SUV PIlot. Therefore, the ride quality is quite similar and mostly on the soft side. Still, the Odyssey features lower ground clearance, which also means less body roll compared to the SUV sibling. All in all, the ride is smooth and comfortable, while the vehicle is easy to drive.
Interior
One of the big improvements the current generation brought was a much nicer cabin design. Thanks to that, the current model looks notably more upscale than before, and also more upscale compared to most rivals. For example, the materials are notably nicer compared to the Chrysler Pacifica, while there is also more attention to detail.
Another important thing for this class is the amount of passenger space and the Odyssey stands pretty well in this aspect too. All three rows of seats are pretty generous and accommodate adults with ease. Moreover, the first and second-row seats and pretty massive and supportive, while the third row also offers a decent level of comfort.
The third row folds flat, but that’s not the case with the second row. Therefore, if you want to use maximum cargo space, you will have to remove the seats completely. Still, the numbers are very good. You may count on about 32.8 to 38.6 cubic feet of cargo room behind the third row. That expands to between 86.6 and 92.3 cubic feet behind the second row and between 140.7 and 158 cubes behind the front seats.
Features
We don’t believe that the next year’s model could bring more important changes in terms of standard and available equipment. Therefore, base models should come standard with goodies like an 8-inch touch screen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, HD Radio, two USB ports, Bluetooth, a seven-speaker audio system, tri-zone automatic climate control, proximity keyless entry and push-button start.
Of course, there will be a lot of available upgrades, starting from goodies like a Wi-Fi hot spot, wireless device charging, navigation, a rear-seat entertainment system, an 11-speaker premium audio system, additional USB ports, a universal garage-door opener, a 115-volt household-style power outlet, ambient interior LED lighting, a power liftgate, a hands-free power liftgate, a moonroof, a CabinTalk in-car PA system, a CabinWatch rear-seat monitoring system etc.
2024 Honda Odyssey Engines
According to some sources, the 2024 Honda Odyssey could bring novelties under the hood. Allegedly, the Japanese manufacturer is working on a new plug-in hybrid system, which would probably be based on a turbo-four engine. Rumors suggest a max output of around 300 horsepower, though the details are still unavailable.
On the other hand, base models will continue with a good-old 3.5-liter V6, which puts out around 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. The overall performance is pretty good while the powertrain also feels very refined. It comes coupled with a 10-speed automatic gearbox, which generally works pretty well. The average fuel economy goes around 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, typical for a minivan of this size.
2024 Honda Odyssey Release Date and Price
Despite the possible addition of a hybrid version, we don’t believe that the 2024 Honda Odyssey could arrive before the second half of 2023. The starting price should go around 38.000 dollars, while models like Toyota Sienna and Chrysler Pacifica will remain key competitors.