Is The Odyssey a good van?
The Honda Odyssey remains a strong option for families seeking space, comfort, and reliability, but Honda has ended Odyssey production after the 2024 model year. For new-vehicle shoppers, that means evaluating current minivans like the Toyota Sienna, Chrysler Pacifica, and Kia Carnival. In short, it’s a solid van, but you may need to consider alternatives designed for today’s market.
What makes a van good?
When assessing a family minivan, buyers typically weigh interior space, passenger comfort, ease of access, safety tech, and ownership costs. The Odyssey has historically excelled in these areas, which helps explain its lasting appeal even as the market evolves.
The Odyssey's strengths
These are the pillars where the Odyssey commonly earns praise from owners and reviewers alike.
- Spacious interior with seating for up to eight and ample cargo capacity
- Flexible second-row seating, including optional Magic Slide seats for easy third-row access
- Strong, smooth V6 power and confident highway ride
- Wide roster of standard safety features and driver-assist tech on newer trims
- Proven reliability and solid resale value within the minivan segment
Taken together, the Odyssey’s strengths center on practical daily use—lots of space, family-friendly arrangement, and a comfortable ride for long trips.
The Odyssey's limitations and the current market
No model is perfect, and the Odyssey has trade-offs to consider in today’s market.
- Less fuel-efficient than trendy hybrids and newer rivals
- Interior materials and styling can feel dated versus newer minivans
- With production ended after 2024, new Odysseys aren’t available; the pool is limited to used examples
- Infotainment and tech interfaces may lag behind the latest systems in rivals
- Limited all-wheel-drive availability across trims and a driving experience that may not feel as SUV-like as some competitors
These factors reflect a broader shift in the minivan segment toward more efficient powertrains and newer interior tech, even as the Odyssey remains a practical, well-rounded option in the used market.
Current alternatives if you want a van today
With the Odyssey out of new production, shoppers typically compare these contemporary minivans for modern features and efficiency.
- Toyota Sienna — standard hybrid powertrain, optional all-wheel drive, excellent fuel economy for a minivan
- Chrysler Pacifica — available as a traditional gas model or as a plug-in hybrid (Pacifica Hybrid), strong interior and tech
- Kia Carnival — stylish, roomy, feature-rich, with a car-like ride and competitive pricing
These rivals illustrate the current landscape: hybrids and plug-in options atop efficiency, modern infotainment, and fresh styling, with the Carnival offering a value-focused alternative that doesn’t rely on a traditional minivan silhouette.
Interior and features spotlight
Inside the cabin, certain features most influence day-to-day use and long trips.
- Third-row access and legroom for adult passengers
- Second-row seating flexibility (Magic Slide in some Odyssey configurations)
- Cabin quietness, ride comfort, and overall refinement on the highway
- Infotainment usability, screen size, and smartphone integration
These interior traits shape how families live with the vehicle, from daily school runs to weekend road trips.
Verdict: Is it a good van for you?
For families prioritizing interior space, seating versatility, and a proven track record, the Odyssey remains a strong choice in used markets. However, buyers should understand that new Odysseys are no longer available, and the segment now leans toward hybrids and newer infotainment features. If you value modern efficiency and the latest tech, consider the Toyota Sienna or Chrysler Pacifica; if you prefer a stylish, value-oriented option with ample space, the Kia Carnival is compelling. A well-maintained used Odyssey can still deliver dependable transportation, especially for buyers who appreciate its tried-and-true practicality.
Summary
The Honda Odyssey is a durable, family-friendly van known for space and comfort, with a long-standing reputation for reliability. Yet production ended after the 2024 model year, so shoppers are more likely to encounter used examples than new ones. In today’s market, top alternatives include the Toyota Sienna, Chrysler Pacifica, and Kia Carnival, each offering modern powertrains, updated tech, and strong value propositions. If you find a well-priced used Odyssey in good condition, it remains a viable option for families who prioritize cabin room and everyday practicality.
