A New Era for Honda's Benchmark Minivan
Honda unveiled its completely reimagined Odyssey minivan at the North American International Auto Show, marking the debut of the fifth generation of this iconic family vehicle. The new Odyssey represents Honda's most ambitious minivan redesign in over a decade, promising to redefine expectations for what a family vehicle can offer.
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Early design sketches reveal a dramatically styled van that maintains the Odyssey's practical roots while introducing sportier elements. The production model features:
- A raked windshield for improved aerodynamics
- Aggressive wheel arches accommodating larger wheels
- Signature raked-forward rear roof pillars (a hallmark of Odyssey design)
- Sharper character lines along the body
The Evolution of Minivan Styling
Honda has consistently pushed boundaries with Odyssey styling, and this generation continues that tradition. While minivans traditionally prioritize function over form, the new Odyssey demonstrates that bold design and family practicality aren't mutually exclusive.
Exterior Design Highlights
- LED lighting signatures front and rear
- More pronounced grille and bumper design
- Flowing shoulder line that emphasizes length
- Available two-tone exterior color options
Interior Innovations
- Next-generation Magic Slide second-row seats
- Enhanced CabinWatch and CabinTalk systems
- Premium materials throughout the cabin
- Improved storage solutions
Powertrain and Technology Advancements
The 2018 Odyssey introduces Honda's most advanced minivan powertrain yet, combining responsive performance with impressive efficiency. While official specifications weren't fully disclosed at launch, Honda representatives confirmed several groundbreaking developments:
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Engine and Transmission
A refined version of Honda's 3.5L V6 engine is expected, likely paired with:
- A new 10-speed automatic transmission (top trims)
- Continued availability of 9-speed automatic
- Possible hybrid variant in future model years
Innovative Features
The new Odyssey debuts Honda's latest family-focused technologies:
- Advanced Honda Sensing® safety suite
- 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot with enhanced bandwidth
- Rear-seat entertainment system with streaming capability
- Improved voice recognition and connectivity
Redefining the Minivan Segment
The fifth-generation Odyssey arrives as the minivan segment experiences renewed competition. Honda's redesign directly addresses evolving family needs while anticipating future transportation trends.
Key Competitive Advantages
- Versatile Seating: The Magic Slide second row offers unprecedented configuration options
- Quiet Cabin: Enhanced sound insulation and acoustic glass
- Safety Leadership: Standard Honda Sensing® across all trims
- Tech Integration: Best-in-class connectivity and entertainment
Industry analysts note the Odyssey's redesign comes at a crucial time, as families increasingly prioritize vehicles that can serve as mobile offices and entertainment centers while maintaining exceptional safety standards.
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What Current Odyssey Owners Should Know
The launch of the redesigned 2018 model follows closely behind the 2017 Odyssey, which saw minimal changes from the 2016 version. Key differences buyers should consider:
| Feature | 2017 Model | 2018 Redesign |
|---|---|---|
| Exterior Design | Carryover from 2016 | All-new fifth-generation styling |
| Technology | Existing infotainment | Next-generation systems |
| Safety | Available Honda Sensing® | Standard Honda Sensing® |
The 2017 model received only minor updates, most notably a new acoustic windshield for SE and EX-L trims, making the 2018 redesign particularly significant for buyers considering an upgrade.
