The Honda Odyssey has been a popular choice for American families since its debut in 1995. Originally built on the Honda Accord platform, the Odyssey was designed as a compact minivan with hinged rear doors. As such, it catered to families needing a practical yet agile vehicle. Over the years, the Odyssey evolved significantly. It grew in size, adopted sliding doors for added convenience, and incorporated cutting-edge features. Drivers have consistently praised the Odyssey for its reliability, spaciousness, and family-friendly design. This drove it up as a top contender in the competitive minivan market. Some Odyssey model years gained exceptional reputations for reliability, owner satisfaction, and overall performance. Here, we highlight five of the best Honda Odyssey years, exploring what makes them stand out. From better mechanical reliability to advanced safety features, these models left a lasting positive impression on drivers.
To start, we’ll point out that even 1995 Odyssey owners claimed it was the best investment in a vehicle they’d ever made [Edmunds]. However, we’ll begin with more modern versions.
2007 Honda Odyssey
The 2007 Honda Odyssey is part of the third generation (2005–2010), which brought notable improvements to the model’s design and mechanics. This year specifically stands out because of its refined transmission and overall reliability.
One of the major upgrades in the 2007 Odyssey was its adoption of a more robust transmission, derived from the Honda Ridgeline. This transmission addressed issues that had plagued earlier models, particularly concerns over premature wear and failure. By using a sturdier design, Honda ensured that the 2007 Odyssey could handle the demands of daily driving and family life.
Another key feature of the 2007 model was its 3.5-liter V6 engine. It came with or without Honda’s Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) technology. While the VCM system improved fuel efficiency by deactivating certain cylinders during light driving conditions, some owners preferred the non-VCM versions available in the LX and EX trims. This was due to their simpler design and fewer potential maintenance concerns.
The 2007 Odyssey also excelled in terms of comfort and practicality. Its spacious interior, configurable seating, and thoughtful storage solutions made it a favorite among families. Additions like power sliding doors and a well-insulated cabin provided a premium feel for its class.
2010 Honda Odyssey
The 2010 Honda Odyssey is often hailed as one of the best in the third generation, marking the culmination of years of refinement and improvement. It combined proven reliability with excellent performance, making it a standout year for prospective buyers.
The 2010 Odyssey retained the powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 244 horsepower and a smooth driving experience. This year also benefitted from improvements to the five-speed automatic transmission, which addressed minor issues observed in earlier models. The result was a drivetrain that offered both durability and efficiency.
Inside, the 2010 Odyssey featured a well-thought-out layout designed with families in mind. Its flexible seating arrangements included a stowable second-row center seat and a third-row Magic Seat, which could fold flat into the floor to create additional cargo space. Parents appreciated the ample cupholders, easy-to-clean materials, and rear entertainment system available in higher trims.
Safety was another strong suit for the 2010 model. It came equipped with essential features like anti-lock brakes, stability control, and multiple airbags. The Odyssey’s strong crash-test ratings further reinforced its reputation as a dependable family vehicle.
2014 Honda Odyssey
The 2014 Honda Odyssey marked a turning point for the fourth generation (2011–2017), thanks to a significant mid-cycle refresh. This year introduced key upgrades in both technology and safety, making it a standout choice for families seeking a modern and reliable minivan.
One of the most notable updates for 2014 was the standardization of a six-speed automatic transmission across all trims. This improvement not only enhanced the Odyssey’s performance but also improved fuel efficiency, making it a practical choice for long road trips and daily commutes alike.
In terms of safety, the 2014 Odyssey raised the bar by incorporating advanced features such as forward-collision warning and lane-departure warning systems. These technologies provided drivers with added confidence and contributed to the minivan’s excellent safety ratings. The 2014 model was also the first minivan to offer a built-in vacuum system (the HondaVAC) on its top-tier Touring Elite trim, adding an extra layer of convenience for families.
The refreshed exterior design of the 2014 Odyssey included sleeker lines and a more aerodynamic profile, while the interior boasted upgraded materials and an intuitive infotainment system. With these enhancements, the 2014 Odyssey successfully combined style, practicality, and reliability.
2017 Honda Odyssey
As the final model year of the fourth generation, the 2017 Honda Odyssey represented the pinnacle of Honda’s engineering and design efforts for this iteration. This year consistently ranks among the best Honda Odyssey years due to its outstanding reliability and overall owner satisfaction.
The 2017 Odyssey featured the same tried-and-true 3.5-liter V6 engine, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. This combination delivered smooth and responsive performance, while also maintaining competitive fuel economy for its class. Honda’s attention to detail in refining the drivetrain over the years made this model one of the most dependable options for families.
Inside, the 2017 Odyssey offered an exceptionally comfortable and versatile cabin. The second-row seats could be configured to accommodate a variety of passenger and cargo needs, while the third-row Magic Seat added even more flexibility. High-quality materials and thoughtful touches, such as the available rear entertainment system and tri-zone climate control, enhanced the overall experience for passengers.
Safety was another highlight of the 2017 Odyssey. It came equipped with a suite of features, including a rearview camera, parking sensors, and Honda’s LaneWatch system on higher trims. With its proven reliability and family-focused design, the 2017 model remains a favorite among minivan enthusiasts.
2021 Honda Odyssey
The 2021 Honda Odyssey is part of the fifth generation (2018–present) and represents the latest in Honda’s long line of innovations. This model year is celebrated for its modern features, advanced safety technologies, and continued commitment to reliability.
One of the standout aspects of the 2021 Odyssey is its updated Honda Sensing suite, which comes standard on all trims. This comprehensive safety package includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, collision mitigation braking, and road departure mitigation. These features provide drivers with peace of mind and set the 2021 Odyssey apart as one of the safest minivans on the market.
The 2021 model also received subtle design updates, including a refreshed grille and front fascia. Inside, it offered a spacious and tech-forward cabin. You’ll find an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Families appreciated features like CabinWatch, which allowed parents to monitor rear-seat passengers through an integrated camera.
Under the hood, the 2021 Odyssey continued to use the reliable 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering strong performance and efficient operation. Its smooth ride and refined handling further solidified its position as a top-tier minivan.
While we’re here, be sure to check out MotorBiscuit’s seamless car buying tool to compare Odyssey listings and find the best deal near you.
The Honda Odyssey earned its reputation as one of the most reliable and family-friendly minivans on the market. Among its many model years, these Odysseys stand out for their exceptional reliability, advanced features, and high owner satisfaction. Whether you’re seeking a practical vehicle for daily commutes or a dependable option for long road trips, these models represent some the best of what the Odyssey has to offer owners.
