New 2011 Honda Odyssey: New Features, Improved Gas Mileage
The new 2011 Honda Odyssey receives a facelift for the new model year. With improved gas mileage, an enhanced interior and sleeker styling, the upgrades are an improvement to a minivan that was already considered one of the best on the road. Learn what has changed on the new 2011 Honda Odyssey to decide if it is the right vehicle for you and your family.
New 2011 Honda Odyssey Styling
On the outside, the Honda Odyssey boasts a wider stance and lower ground clearance. While the changes to the exterior aren't extensive, they do serve as a fashionable and more modern update to the previous model's design.
Inside, Honda really ups the ante when it comes to incorporating comfort and family-friendly features. Major innovations have been made to the second row of seats, which can be configured in three different ways to accommodate either adults or children. On the Elite Touring model, these configurations include a two-seat captain chair configuration, three-seat "wide mode" configuration that fits up to three child car seats and a slide configuration that allows you to bring the center seat six inches closer for easy access to toddlers and small children.
In terms of front passenger seating, the Honda Odyssey is designed for maximum comfort. The wider exterior dimensions translate to larger seating proportions that offer enhanced shoulder room. A 10-way power-adjustment seating system delivers superior lumbar support. A dashboard redesign has also simplified vehicle controls for maximum efficiency.
The third-row of seating is designed to properly accommodate up to three adult passengers. Stadium seating, improved shoulder room and more leg room all add up to a more comfortable ride.
New 2011 Honda Odyssey Features
Features to be available on the new Honda Odyssey include a 12-speaker audio system, satellite radio, navigation system with voice activation, DVD entertainment system with split-screen capability, high definition inputs, hidden storage below the center console, stowable third-row seating and a power tailgate.
New 2011 Honda Odyssey Performance
Complete engine specs have not yet been released by Honda. However, we do know the top-tier Touring Elite model will come with a 3.5-liter V-6 engine that is accompanied by a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Thanks to the CVT transmission and improved aerodynamics, Honda estimates gas mileage at 19 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. If the EPA validates these figures, then the Odyssey will be the most fuel-efficient minivan on the road. On lower trims, the current V-6 engine will likely serve as the base engine.
The new 2011 Honda Odyssey minivan is scheduled to hit dealerships this fall. If you don't want to wait that long to test drive the new model, consider checking out the 2010 Honda Odyssey or 2010 Toyota Sienna.