IT MAY BE PURELY COINCIDENTAL, but in the same week that Kia has released its new MPV, the Carnival, Honda’s entrant in the category, the Odyssey, has undergone a major upgrade.
Coincidence or not, buyers will be the winners.
The Odyssey gets fresh new styling, many more convenience and technology features and Honda Sensing is added to the entry level.
Other key improvements for the new 2021 Odyssey include an automatic power tailgate with kick sensor and gesture control power sliding doors on the high-series grade, as well as leather seat trim, second row Captain’s chairs and an eight-inch Advanced Display Audio system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard across the range.
The updated Odyssey range continues to be powered by a 2.4-litre DOHC i-VTEC four-cylinder engine that produces 129kW of power at 6200rpm and 225Nm of torque at 4000rpm – it is mated to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with G-design Shift, idle stop and steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.
“Odyssey has been the undisputed leader in the people mover private market for nine consecutive years,” said Mr. Robert Thorp, General Manager – Product, Customer and Communications, Honda Australia.
“When it came time to purchase a new vehicle to transport their family, since 2012 more private buyers have chosen the Honda Odyssey than any other people mover.”
“With the introduction of the updated 2021 Year Model, the Odyssey range now offers more comfort, convenience and innovative technology features than ever before – it is a first-class people mover designed to suit the needs of family car buyers.”
New Grade Line-up
The new Odyssey has adopted the new ‘Model Grade’ naming convention introduced recently with the 2021CR-V, which has been designed to simplify the terminology used, while at the same time making it easier for customers to understand key differentiators when stepping up through the range.
The new grade naming system distinguishes between naturally aspirated and turbocharged engines, as well as between two-wheel drive and all-wheel drive driveline configurations, while also clearly defining trim levels and seating capacities.
The two new Odyssey grades are the Vi L7 and Vi LX7, replacing the VTi and VTi-L grades respectively.
The Odyssey retains the core, unique features that separate it from its competitors – ultra-low floor height, passenger car-like handling, comfortable interior with space and flexibility, contemporary styling, advanced technology and an efficient petrol engine.
Drawing on the popularity of the previous high-series VTi-L grade, the Odyssey range has been elevated with both grades now offering:
- seven-seat configuration
- second row Captain’s chairs with adjustable armrests, plus recline and long-slide functionality
- improved positioning of child restraint anchor points
- two ISOFIX child seat anchorages
- 1000kg braked towing capacity
- leather-appointedseat trim
- one-touch power sliding rear doors – driver and passenger side
- keyless entry with push button start
- LED headlights
- Blind Spot Information System
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
The first examples of the new Honda Odyssey will appear in showrooms throughout January, with the official on-sale date being January 18.
The new Odyssey is priced at $44,250 (plus on road costs) for the Vi L7 and from $51,150 (plus on road costs) for the Vi LX7.
Once we have tested and assessed the new Honda Odyssey, seniordriveraus will bring you a comprehensive review, including everything the over-50 driver needs to know.