Is the Honda Odyssey good on gas?
In brief, the Odyssey’s fuel economy is average for a non-hybrid minivan and lags behind hybrid rivals. It isn’t a standout gas saver, but it remains a practical choice for families who prioritize space and comfort.
The question of how fuel-efficient the Odyssey is depends on model year, drivetrain, and driving habits. The vehicle uses a 3.5-liter V6 with a 10-speed automatic transmission, and its official ratings have generally placed it in the low-20s miles per gallon (MPG) combined for typical front-wheel-drive configurations. Real-world numbers vary based on city versus highway driving, cargo load, weather, and driving style.
Official fuel economy ratings
Official EPA figures give a baseline for what to expect in typical mixed driving. For most non-hybrid Odyssey models, this is how the numbers have trended in recent years:
- City: 19 MPG
- Highway: 28 MPG
- Combined: 22 MPG
Conclusion: The EPA numbers show solid highway efficiency for a large van, but overall combined mileage sits in the low 20s, reflecting the vehicle’s V6 power and non-hybrid setup.
Real-world performance and driving conditions
Real-world fuel economy rarely matches EPA labels exactly. The Odyssey’s MPG can vary widely depending on how you drive and haul cargo:
- Urban driving and frequent stops typically pull MPG into the teens to low 20s.
- Consistent highway cruising with light cargo tends to push numbers toward the upper 20s.
- Factors that affect fuel economy include weight from passengers and cargo, tire pressure, climate control use, and aggressive acceleration.
Conclusion: In daily use, most drivers will see a range centered around the low to mid-20s MPG combined, with higher figures on long highway trips and lower figures in heavy city traffic.
How the Odyssey stacks up against rivals
When fuel economy is a primary consideration, the Odyssey faces a competitive field. Some rivals offer noticeably higher efficiency due to hybrid powertrains or newer engine technologies:
- Toyota Sienna (hybrid) commonly delivers around mid-30s MPG combined, offering a substantial efficiency advantage for many buyers.
- Chrysler Pacifica (gas version) generally lands in the low-to-mid 20s MPG combined, while the Pacifica Hybrid targets about 30+ MPG combined.
- Other hybrid or plug-in minivan options also pull ahead of the Odyssey in fuel economy.
Conclusion: If maximizing fuel economy is a priority, hybrid minivan options like the Toyota Sienna or a Pacifica Hybrid typically outperform the Odyssey.
Current status and buying considerations
As of 2025, Honda has ended Odyssey production for North America, making new Odysseys unavailable in the U.S. and Canada. If you’re shopping, you’ll be looking at used models or considering alternatives such as the Toyota Sienna, Chrysler Pacifica, or Kia Carnival. For buyers focused on gas economy, a hybrid option will generally offer better efficiency than the Odyssey’s V6.
Practical tips to maximize fuel economy in the Odyssey
Even without a hybrid powertrain, there are steps that can help squeeze more MPG from the Odyssey:
- Keep tires inflated to the recommended pressure for reduced rolling resistance.
- Schedule regular maintenance, including air filters and spark plugs, to maintain efficiency.
- Plan smoother, gradual accelerations and steady speeds on highways.
- Use air conditioning judiciously and consider recirculation mode on highway trips to reduce load on the engine.
Conclusion: While the Odyssey isn’t a fuel-saver by design, mindful driving and proper maintenance can help maximize its efficiency for a large non-hybrid minivan.
Summary
The Honda Odyssey offers ample interior space and features, but its fuel economy is average for a non-hybrid minivan. EPA ratings typically place it around 22 MPG combined, with better highway efficiency than city driving. Real-world results vary, and rivals such as the hybrid Toyota Sienna often deliver notably higher mpg. With Honda no longer producing new Odysseys in North America, prospective buyers should weigh hybrid alternatives or used Odysseys when considering fuel economy as a priority. Overall, the Odyssey remains a solid family vehicle, but if gas mileage is a top priority, explore hybrid options or closely compare current market offerings.
