Finding the best-year Honda Odyssey can be a challenge. With over 25 years of production, this minivan has seen its share of highs and lows. Choosing the right model year is crucial for your family’s comfort and safety.
This guide will help you to guide the Odyssey’s history, highlighting the standout years and those to avoid. We’ll explore each notable model year’s key features, reliability ratings, and customer feedback.
By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear picture of which Honda Odyssey years offer the best value, performance, and peace of mind. Let’s look into our ranked list of the top Honda Odyssey model years, ensuring you make an informed decision for your next family vehicle.
A Ranked List for The Honda Odyssey
1. 2017 Honda Odyssey – Best Year Honda Odyssey
The 2017 Honda Odyssey is the top pick for families seeking a reliable, feature-packed minivan. This model year hit the sweet spot, blending safety, efficiency, and family-friendly features into one well-rounded package.
Safety Excellence
Safety took center stage in the 2017 Odyssey. Thanks to its sturdy build and advanced safety tech, it earned top marks from the NHTSA and IIHS. Anti-lock brakes, stability control, and airbags all worked together to keep families safe on the road.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency was another strong point. The 2017 model could reach up to 28 mpg on highways, making it a thrifty choice for long family trips. Its 3.5-liter V6 engine, paired with a smooth six-speed automatic transmission, offered a nice balance of power and economy.
Technological Advancements
Tech-wise, the 2017 Odyssey didn’t disappoint. A handy rearview camera made parking easier, while the user-friendly infotainment system kept everyone connected and entertained.
Durability and Longevity
What sets this model year apart is its staying power. Many 2017 Odysseys are still going strong well past 250,000 miles, proving Honda’s solid engineering. This durability, combined with its popularity, means it holds its value well in the used car market.
Family-Friendly Features
Lastly, family-friendly features abound. With room for up to eight passengers, clever storage options, and even a built-in vacuum cleaner, the 2017 Odyssey was designed with families in mind.
2. 2022 Honda Odyssey – The Most Advanced Option
The 2022 Honda Odyssey is a minivan with the latest tech and safety features. It’s a top pick for families who want the newest innovations, though it has a higher price point.
Safety Features
The 2022 model comes with Honda Sensing®, a suite of advanced safety tech. This includes adaptive cruise control, which adjusts your speed to maintain a safe distance from other cars, and lane-keeping assist to help you stay centered in your lane.
Family-Focused Innovations
Unique features like CabinWatch and CabinTalk set the 2022 Odyssey apart. CabinWatch lets you monitor rear passengers using a camera, while CabinTalk lets you speak to them through the rear speakers or headphones. These tools make it easier to manage kids on long trips.
Performance and Handling
Under the hood, you’ll find a strong 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, it offers a smooth and powerful driving experience, whether cruising highways or navigating city streets.
Advanced Technology
The 2022 Odyssey boasts the latest in infotainment and connectivity. Its user-friendly system supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, keeping you connected on the go.
Value Consideration
While the 2022 model offers the most up-to-date features, it has a higher price tag. As a newer model, it may also face steeper depreciation in the short term. However, families prioritizing having the latest tech and safety features could be worth the investment.
3. 2020 Honda Odyssey – The Start of a New Generation
The 2020 Honda Odyssey marks the start of the fifth generation, skillfully combining fresh design elements with the trusted performance that has made the Odyssey a family favorite.
This model year strikes a balance between innovation and dependability, making it a strong contender for those seeking a modern yet reliable minivan.
Fuel Efficiency
One standout feature of the 2020 Odyssey is its impressive fuel economy. Achieving up to 28 mpg on the highway offers families an economical option for long road trips and daily commutes.
This efficiency doesn’t come at the cost of performance, showcasing Honda’s commitment to balancing power and economy.
Performance and Handling
The 2020 model delivers smooth handling and quick acceleration, making it well-suited for city driving and highway cruising. Its responsive steering and stable ride quality give drivers confidence in various driving conditions, from tight urban streets to open highways.
Advanced Safety Features
Safety remains a top priority in the 2020 Odyssey. It has advanced driver assistance systems, contributing to its high safety ratings. These features protect passengers and provide drivers with added peace of mind on the road.
Modern Yet Reliable
What sets the 2020 Odyssey apart is its ability to blend the latest features with the proven reliability of previous models. It introduces modern amenities and tech upgrades while maintaining the durability that Honda is known for, creating a well-rounded package for families.
A Balanced Offering
The 2020 Honda Odyssey provides a solid mix of modern amenities and trusted performance. This balance makes it appealing to many buyers, from tech-savvy parents to those prioritizing long-term reliability. It’s a versatile choice that doesn’t compromise on innovation or dependability.
4. 2019 Honda Odyssey – A Versatile and Practical Choice
The 2019 Honda Odyssey shines as a minivan that prioritizes versatility and practicality. This model year offers a well-rounded package that caters to families seeking a blend of comfort, technology, and safety, all at a reasonable price point.
Transmission Options
One key feature of the 2019 Odyssey is its choice of transmissions. Buyers can opt for a nine-speed or a 10-speed automatic transmission, depending on the trim level. This variety allows for a more tailored driving experience, balancing performance and efficiency to suit different preferences.
Spacious Seating
With room for up to eight passengers, the 2019 Odyssey accommodates large families or groups. The flexible seating arrangements make it easy to adapt the interior space for various needs, from carpooling to hauling cargo.
Smooth Ride Quality
The 2019 Odyssey maintains a smooth and comfortable ride even on rough roads. This feature is particularly valuable for families who frequently embark on long trips or navigate through urban areas with less-than-perfect road conditions.
Feature Blend
The 2019 model perfectly balances comfort, technology, and safety features. While it may not have all the cutting-edge tech of newer models, it still offers a comprehensive package that meets most family needs.
Affordability and Value
Compared to newer models, the 2019 Odyssey presents great value in terms of price. It provides many of the features families seek in a minivan without the premium cost associated with the latest models.
5. 2021 Honda Odyssey – A Modern Family Minivan
The 2021 Honda Odyssey is a modern, tech-savvy choice for families seeking a minivan that keeps up with the times. This model year brings updated features and design elements, making it an attractive option for those who want a fresh take on the classic Odyssey formula.
Diverse Trim Levels
One of the 2021 Odyssey’s strengths is its range of trim levels. With five distinct options to choose from, families can find a configuration that best suits their needs and budget. From the well-equipped base model to the luxury-oriented top trim, there’s an Odyssey for every preference.
Enhanced Interior Comfort
The 2021 model year saw updates to the Odyssey’s interior, focusing on improved comfort. Updated materials give the cabin a more premium feel, while enhanced lumbar support in the seats provides better comfort on long drives.
These upgrades make the interior a more pleasant place to spend time, especially for families who frequently take road trips.
Impressive Towing Capacity
The 2021 Odyssey boasts a respectable towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds for a minivan. This feature adds versatility to the vehicle, allowing families to easily haul trailers, small boats, or camping gear.
A Modern Option
The 2021 Odyssey combines sleek, contemporary design with advanced technology features. Its updated styling and tech offerings make it an appealing choice for families who want a minivan that doesn’t feel outdated.
Minor Reliability Concerns
While the 2021 Odyssey is generally reliable, it has some minor concerns compared to top-ranked models like the 2017 version. These issues are typically not major, but they’re worth considering for buyers prioritizing long-term dependability.
Value Proposition
Despite the slight reliability issues, the 2021 Odyssey offers a comprehensive blend of features that provide good value for money. It strikes a balance between modern amenities and the practical needs of families, making it a solid choice in the minivan market.
6. 2013 Honda Odyssey – A Budget-Friendly Option
The 2013 Honda Odyssey is a solid choice for families seeking a reliable minivan without breaking the bank. This model year offers a blend of dependable performance and practical features that continue to meet many families’ needs, even in today’s market.
Interior Design and Safety
Despite its age, the 2013 Odyssey’s interior design is better than that of more modern models. It offers a spacious and functional layout that caters to family needs.
While not as advanced as newer models, safety features, including multiple airbags and stability control systems, still provide good protection.
Powerful and Efficient Engine
Under the hood, the 2013 Odyssey boasts a 248-horsepower V-6 engine with a six-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain offers a good balance of performance and efficiency, providing enough power for daily driving and long trips alike.
Handling and Fuel Efficiency
The 2013 Odyssey offers reliable handling and respectable fuel efficiency for its era. Its smooth ride quality and responsive steering make it comfortable for drivers and passengers.
While not as efficient as the latest models, its fuel economy is still competitive for a minivan of its size and age.
Affordability
One of the 2013 Odyssey’s biggest draws is its affordability. As a used vehicle, it offers great value for budget-conscious buyers who need a spacious and reliable family vehicle without the high cost of newer models.
Dependable Performance
The 2013 Odyssey remains a dependable performer even without the latest tech features. Its well-built engine and transmission have proven their reliability over time, making this model a good choice for those prioritizing long-term durability over cutting-edge features.
A Well-Equipped Option
While newer models may lack some advanced tech, the 2013 Odyssey still comes well-equipped for family needs. Features like a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and ample storage options were ahead of their time and continue to be useful for today’s families.
7. 1997 Honda Odyssey – A Classic and Durable Option
While an older model, the 1997 Honda Odyssey holds a special place in the Odyssey lineup. Known for its exceptional durability and impressive fuel efficiency, this model year offers a no-frills option for those prioritizing reliability over modern features.
Efficient Engine
At the heart of the 1997 Odyssey is a 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine producing 140 horsepower. While modest by today’s standards, this powerplant offers a good balance of performance and fuel economy. Its efficiency makes it economical for budget-conscious families, even by current standards.
Remarkable Longevity
One of the standout features of the 1997 Odyssey is its ability to rack up high mileage. With proper maintenance, these vehicles often surpass the 250,000-mile mark, showcasing Honda’s reputation for building long-lasting cars.
This longevity makes it a potential option for those seeking an ultra-budget-friendly used minivan.
Classic Design
Unlike later Odyssey models, the 1997 version features a more traditional design with regular hinged rear doors instead of sliding ones. This design gives it a distinct look compared to modern minivans and may appeal to those who prefer a more car-like appearance.
Durability as a Key Strength
The 1997 Odyssey’s main selling point is its durability. These vehicles were built to last, and many are still on the road today, a testament to their robust construction and reliable engineering. For those who value a car that can withstand the test of time, the 1997 Odyssey is hard to beat.
Why It’s Last on the List
Despite its strengths, the 1997 Odyssey ranks last due to its age and lack of modern features. While it’s an excellent choice for those seeking a basic, reliable vehicle on a tight budget, it doesn’t offer the comfort, safety, or technological advancements that most families expect from a minivan today.
However, it could still be a worthy consideration for the right buyer – perhaps as a second car or for those who prefer simplicity.
Conclusion
The Honda Odyssey’s evolution caters to a wide range of family needs. From the tech-rich 2022 model to the durable 1997 version, each year offers unique strengths.
The 2017 Odyssey is the best-year Honda Odyssey, balancing reliability, features, and value.
Whether the priority is innovative technology, fuel efficiency, or budget-friendly dependability, an ideal Odyssey awaits. Families should consider their specific needs, budget, and desired features when choosing.
Test driving these top models can help you find the perfect Odyssey for family adventures. The right Honda Odyssey is out there, ready to serve as a reliable companion for years to come, with the 2017 model standing out as the top choice for many.