Cargazing
By Derek Price
Some vehicles transcend their segment’s reputation, and the 2025 Honda Odyssey is one of them.
While “fun-to-drive minivan” might sound like an oxymoron, this latest version proves Honda hasn’t forgotten about the driver while crafting one of the most practical family vehicles on the market.
Fresh styling updates for 2025 include a sportier grille and reshaped fascias, but the real news lies in the technology upgrades.
Every trim now features a 7-inch digital instrument display and a larger 9-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The rear entertainment system grows to an impressive 12.8-inch screen, perfect for keeping the peace on long drives.
During an extended road trip to San Antonio, the Odyssey revealed its dual personality.
The 280-horsepower V6 engine delivers confident acceleration through a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission, while the chassis provides surprisingly engaging handling without sacrificing ride comfort. Even on extended highway stretches, the cabin remains notably quiet and composed.
The interior continues to showcase Honda’s mastery of space utilization.
Revised front styling gives the 2025 Odyssey a sportier appearance while maintaining its clean, sophisticated design language.
The Magic Slide second-row seats offer multiple configurations for passengers and cargo, though removing them entirely requires some muscle. Storage compartments seem to hide everywhere, from the deep center console to the various cubbies throughout all three rows. Even third-row passengers commented on the comfortable accommodations — a rare feat in any vehicle.
My Elite test model — priced at $52,275 with destination — came loaded with luxury touches including perforated leather seats, ventilated front seats and a premium audio system.
The new digital displays look sharp and respond quickly, while wireless phone charging and abundant USB-C ports keep devices powered up.
The upgraded cabin features new digital displays and premium materials, while Honda’s innovative Magic Slide second-row seats offer unmatched flexibility.
Standard safety features are comprehensive, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist and automatic emergency braking. However, some competitors offer features the Odyssey lacks, such as a surround-view camera system and power-folding third-row seats.
The biggest missing feature might be all-wheel drive, which both the Toyota Sienna and Chrysler Pacifica offer. Additionally, while the V6 engine is strong and smooth, its fuel economy — 19 city and 28 highway — can’t match hybrid rivals.
Yet these compromises feel minor given the Odyssey’s overall excellence. It manages to be both a thoughtfully designed family tool and an enjoyable vehicle to drive, a combination that helps explain its position as America’s retail best-selling minivan to retail buyers.
At A Glance
WHAT WAS TESTED?
2025 Honda Odyssey Elite ($50,884). Options: None. Price as tested (including $1,395 destination charge): $52,275
BY THE NUMBERS
Wheelbase: 118.1 in.
Length: 205.2 in.
Width: 78.5 in.
Height: 69.6 in.
Engine: 3.5-liter V6 (280 hp, 262 lbs. ft.)
Transmission: 10-speed automatic
MPG: 19 city, 28 highway
RATINGS
Style: 6
Performance: 8
Price: 8
Handling: 7
Ride: 8
Comfort: 9
Quality: 10
Overall: 9
WHY BUY IT?
Class-leading driving dynamics and clever interior packaging make this the minivan for drivers who haven’t given up on enjoying the journey.