2024 Honda Odyssey: Still the King of the Minivan Mountain?

The Honda Odyssey has long been a favorite among families for its blend of practicality, comfort, and surprising driving dynamics. But with a new generation every few years, can the 2024 Odyssey hold onto its minivan crown? We spent a week behind the wheel to find out.

Spacious and Flexible Interior: A Family's Dream

Step inside the Odyssey and you're greeted by a spacious and well-organized cabin. The eight-passenger seating offers ample room for even the tallest passengers, and the second-row Magic Slide seats are a game-changer. With the ability to move them fore and aft independently, you can create the perfect amount of legroom for second or third-row passengers, or open up easy access to the third row. The third-row Magic Seat folds flat into the floor, creating a cavernous cargo area that can swallow luggage, sports equipment, or even a week's worth of groceries with ease.

Honda's clever packaging continues with a plethora of storage compartments scattered throughout the cabin. From the deep door pockets to the under-floor storage bins, there's a place for everything, keeping clutter at bay on long road trips. While the base LX trim comes with cloth upholstery, higher trims offer perforated leather that feels both luxurious and durable – perfect for withstanding the inevitable spills and crumbs that come with family life.

Tech Stack: A Mixed Bag

The 2024 Odyssey features an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While the system is functional, it feels a bit dated compared to the larger and more feature-rich displays offered by some competitors. The menus can be cumbersome to navigate at times, and the voice recognition system is occasionally frustrating.

On the bright side, the HondaLink smartphone app allows you to remotely lock and unlock the doors, start the engine, and even monitor cabin temperature – a great feature for those scorching summer days. Higher trims offer a rear entertainment system with a 10.2-inch screen, keeping rear passengers occupied on long journeys.

Safety First: A Honda Hallmark

The Odyssey comes standard with Honda Sensing, a suite of driver-assistance features that includes automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. This comprehensive suite of safety features makes the Odyssey a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, giving parents peace of mind on the road. Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert is also available on most trims, providing an extra layer of security when changing lanes or backing out of a driveway.

Powertrain: Tried-and-True Performance

The 2024 Odyssey continues to rely on a naturally-aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. While some competitors are moving towards turbocharged engines, Honda sticks with a proven formula. The V6 provides adequate power for merging onto highways and navigating city streets. It's paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission that shifts smoothly and efficiently. Don't expect a thrill ride, but the Odyssey delivers a comfortable and predictable driving experience. Fuel economy is decent for a minivan, with EPA estimates of up to 28 mpg highway and 19 mpg city.

The Verdict: Still a Class Leader, But With Room for Improvement

The 2024 Honda Odyssey remains a compelling choice for families seeking a spacious, comfortable, and safe minivan. Its versatile interior, strong safety features, and comfortable ride make it a joy to spend time in. However, the infotainment system feels a bit dated, and some competitors offer more powerful engines or more advanced tech features.

Overall, the Odyssey continues to be a strong contender in the minivan segment. It may not be the flashiest option on the market, but it excels in the areas that matter most to families – practicality, comfort, and safety. If you're looking for a minivan that will faithfully serve your family for years to come, the 2024 Honda Odyssey is definitely worth a closer look.