A Closer Look at the 2021 Odyssey Minivan
Honda’s people and cargo carrier just got better.
Van
The Honda Odyssey provides some updates for 2021. Many can be seen on the outside bodywork. The rest is placed inside, mainly with the addition of electronic safety gadgets and programs. There is also a full radar cruise control system that operates at all speeds. But let's take a look at the core vehicle and features.
Text and photos by Chad Haire
Emblem
The base price starts at $32,910. This is up about a thousand bucks over last year to pay for the new electronics. Our test ride is the Elite, which comes loaded with everything. This jacks the tab to a healthy $49,335.
>>Join the conversation about the 2021 Odyssey right here at Honda-Tech.com.
Sliding Seat
If you are hauling lots of passengers often, these "magic slide" seats found on the second row will be appreciated. Just hit a lever and push the seat to the side, so those seeking the third-row accommodations can slide right in.
>>Join the conversation about the 2021 Odyssey right here at Honda-Tech.com.
Third Row Seat
With the third-row seats up, there is a large storage bin for luggage and gear.
>>Join the conversation about the 2021 Odyssey right here at Honda-Tech.com.
Folded Seats
The third-row seats are easy and quick to fold, creating a flat floor. The total cargo rating of the van is 158 cubic feet.
>>Join the conversation about the 2021 Odyssey right here at Honda-Tech.com.
Vacuum cleaner
Do you have messy kids in the back or dogs and cats shedding hair? No problem, just yank out the built in vacuum hose and suck it all up!
>>Join the conversation about the 2021 Odyssey right here at Honda-Tech.com.
Storage Bin
The center storage bin is well designed and holds lots of items. However, it is a good idea not to eat food nearby, as the crumbs can fall into the cracks between panels, and is near impossible to get out.
>>Join the conversation about the 2021 Odyssey right here at Honda-Tech.com.
Gauge Cluster
The gauge cluster is easy to see and offers lots of useful information.
>>Join the conversation about the 2021 Odyssey right here at Honda-Tech.com.
Info Screen
The infotainment screen is large enough. We have the optional "Cabin Watch" that has a camera pointed on the third-row seats so you can see what the kiddies are up to on the screen. It comes with a "Cabin Talk" intercom system that lets the driver hear what is going on as well.
>>Join the conversation about the 2021 Odyssey right here at Honda-Tech.com.
Engine
The engine is a proven Honda 3.5 liter V-6 rated at 280 horsepower. It is hooked to a modern 10-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy is listed at 19/28 mpg. We observed 27/31 on the freeway.
>>Join the conversation about the 2021 Odyssey right here at Honda-Tech.com.
Transmission
Most vans have a stick shift stick. They take up too much space, can allow drivers to select the wrong gear, and just obsolete. This Odyssey has the superior push button control. It makes picking the wrong gear near impossible, and takes up no room. It is the superior setup.
>>Join the conversation about the 2021 Odyssey right here at Honda-Tech.com.
POV
The Odyssey is pleasant to drive. The wind noise is low, driving position is well placed, and overall comfort is excellent. If you are shopping for a nice van, this is worth a look.
>>Join the conversation about the 2021 Odyssey right here at Honda-Tech.com.