2013 Honda Odyssey Summary

Changes for the 2013 Honda Odyssey:

Already the segment leader for fuel efficiency, and still the only minivan to earn both Top Safety Pick and 5-Star occupant-protection ratings, the 2013 Honda Odyssey comes to the marketplace unchanged from its 2012 version.

Model Lineup:

The 2013 Honda Odyssey LX is the starter model for the lineup, but it’s fairly well fitted with content, including a/c with front and rear controls, Honda’s i-MID intelligent multi-information display with an 8-inch screen that also hosts an integrated rearview camera system, Bluetooth technology, a multi-function steering wheel, and an advanced audio system. It’s a setup that offers up 229 watts of power, routed through seven speakers (including a subwoofer), and provides AM/FM/CD/MP3 playback as well as both an aux-in jack and a USB port.

Shoppers can then fine tune that package for added interior comfort by moving up to the 2013 Honda Odyssey EX, which provides a tri-zone automatic climate system (with humidity control and air filter), a removable front-center console that can deploy a flip-up ring for holding trash bags, a conversation mirror that doubles as storage for sunglasses, integrated sunshades for second-row passengers, and a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat. Notable exterior enhancements for the EX are its power-sliding side doors, heated and power-adjustable side mirrors, and 17-inch alloy wheels.

With the 2013 Honda Odyssey EX-L, we start to see premium cues like a leather-trimmed interior that features a leather-wrapped steering wheel, heated front seats that now include four-way power adjustability for the passenger, and convenience enhancers that range from a “cool box” for beverages and refrigerated snacks to an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Finishing touches are provided by both a power-opening moonroof and a power-operated tailgate. It’s also worth noting that the 2013 Honda Odyssey EX-L can be further optioned-up with a rear-seat DVD entertainment system and a Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System.

The 2013 Honda Odyssey Touring brings a full-on luxury experience to the minivan segment as well as standard equipment such as a six-speed automatic transmission (up one cog from the previous models), the automaker’s nav system (also bringing a multi-angle rearview camera and display screen upgrade), both the DVD entertainment system and a 17-watt power bump for the audio system, ambient lighting, third-row sunshades, two-position driver’s-seat memory, memory-linked side mirrors with tilt-down functionality for reversing and integrated turn signals, and 18-inch alloy wheels.

Delivering a final infusion of premium entertainment features—and automatic on/off, high-intensity discharge head lamps—is the 2013 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite. The range-topper revs up with an “Ultra Wide” 16.2 inch screen for the DVD entertainment system and a 650-watt, 12-speaker premium audio system. Honda’s Blind Spot Information System also is standard on the 2013 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite.

Engines and Transmissions:

The 2013 Honda Odyssey provides a single engine choice, but it’s the most powerful unit ever used in the minivan. The 3.5-liter V6 packs 248 hp and 250 lb.-ft. of torque. The powerplant is paired with a five-speed automatic transmission in the 2013 Honda Odyssey, LX, EX, and EX-L, while the Touring and Touring Elite models benefit from a six-speed automatic that increases both refinement and fuel efficiency.

Fuel Economy Ratings:

With EPA ratings of 19 mpg city/28 mpg highway/22 mpg combined, the 2013 Honda Odyssey Touring and Touring Elite are 1 mpg more economical in all phases of testing than the other models, which come in at 18 mpg city/27 mpg highway/21 mpg combined.

Safety Ratings:

The 2013 Honda Odyssey is both a Top Safety Pick of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and a 5-Star overall performer in testing from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Technology Highlights:

The tech list for the 2013 Honda Odyssey includes some impressive infotainment features: The factory-integrated DVD entertainment system boasts a 16.2-inch LCD display screen, for example, and provides 650 watts of audio power, 12 speakers (including a subwoofer), and Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound capability. Further entertainment options are provided through an HDMI video input, allowing rear-seat gamers to enjoy the action even on the road. And the navigation system in the 2013 Honda Odyssey relies on Honda’s satellite-linked technology for GPS-enabled directions, and also boasts voice control, complimentary access to FM Traffic data and Zagat’s restaurant ratings, and an 8-inch, hi-res display screen.

Also featured in the 2013 Honda Odyssey: A blind-spot alert, rearview camera and Bluetooth Hands-free Link.