Today, we’re going to take a closer look at the 2025 refresh of the Honda Odyssey. In a world where SUVs dominate and the appeal for minivans has dwindled, the big question is: has this refresh done enough to keep the Odyssey alive and make it a viable option for buyers who might otherwise go for the all-new Pilot? We’re going to dive deep into this in today’s article.
Exterior Updates: Aggressive New Look for 2025
Front-End Redesign
One of the most notable changes for the 2025 Honda Odyssey is its refreshed front end. While much of the design remains familiar, subtle tweaks help modernize its look. The full LED lights and high beams return, now paired with updated running lights for better visibility. One of the key changes comes in the form of new gloss black trim around the fog lights and blinkers, adding a more aggressive, sporty vibe to the minivan.
Additionally, Honda has introduced a new honeycomb grille design to enhance the front’s boldness. The gloss black accents replace the previously standard chrome trim, making the Odyssey stand out among its competitors. These enhancements are crucial as Honda aims to bring the Odyssey’s aesthetic in line with its other minivans and SUVs.
Wheel Design and Side Features
Moving along to the side, the 2025 Odyssey Elite model features 19-inch two-tone rims, while other trims like the EXL, Sport, and Touring get different rim designs. The EX trim has been discontinued, making EXL the new base model, equipped with 18-inch rims.
The Odyssey comes loaded with modern features such as Smart Entry and Walkaway Auto Lock, both of which are standard across all trims. Blind-spot monitoring, now a standard feature, is embedded inside the vehicle rather than on the mirror, enhancing the streamlined design.
Rear Bumper and Lighting Tweaks
At the back, the 2025 Odyssey brings additional changes. A new bumper design features vertical reflectors, inspired by the Acura NSX, giving the rear a sportier feel. The tail lights, while still LED, have been slightly darkened to add a more aggressive edge. However, the brake light, reverse light, and blinker remain incandescent. All trims now feature gloss black accents rather than chrome, which helps unify the overall design.
Interior Features: Family-Friendly Comfort
Cabin Storage and Control Layout
The 2025 Odyssey’s interior offers a refined, premium feel, especially with the two-tone gray and black design in this Elite model. The door panels provide ample storage, with cup holders, compartments, and various slots for all your family’s needs. Power seats and seat memory are now standard across all trims, enhancing comfort for both drivers and passengers.
Honda has kept the physical buttons for climate controls and essential features, which is a plus for drivers who prefer tangible controls over touchscreens. The new 9-inch touchscreen replaces the previous 8-inch model and comes equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay, available on all trims.
Magic Slide Seats: A Game-Changer for Families
One of the most unique features of the Odyssey is the Magic Slide second-row seats. These seats offer incredible flexibility, sliding side-to-side or forward and back, making it easy to access the third row or configure extra cargo space. This feature is exclusive to the Odyssey and can be a game-changer for families with children.
The rear entertainment system has been upgraded with a larger screen, perfect for long road trips. Honda’s Cabin Watch and Cabin Talk features, available on the Touring and Elite trims, allow the driver to keep an eye on rear passengers and communicate with them easily through the vehicle’s sound system.
Under the Hood: Smooth and Speedy
Under the hood, the 2025 Odyssey sticks with its reliable 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 280 horsepower. Despite being a minivan, the Odyssey surprises with its quick acceleration, outpacing both the Honda Pilot and Civic sedan in 0-60 tests. This engine provides a smooth driving experience, perfect for families on the go.
One of the more disappointing aspects is that the Odyssey remains front-wheel drive only. While competitors have introduced all-wheel drive options, Honda has decided to stick with front-wheel drive for this model. However, with the snow mode, the Odyssey still performs well in slippery conditions. Fuel economy, while decent, doesn’t include a hybrid option, which may deter some eco-conscious buyers.
Improved Quietness and Comfort
One of the standout improvements is the enhanced sound insulation, making the 2025 Odyssey quieter than ever before. Whether you’re driving long distances or just commuting, the quiet cabin adds a layer of comfort that’s ideal for family road trips. The seats are also notably comfortable, with plenty of adjustments available to suit passengers of all sizes.
Cargo Space and Seating Flexibility
Minivans are known for their practicality, and the 2025 Odyssey doesn’t disappoint. The third row can be easily folded down to create even more cargo space, offering nearly as much room as some SUVs with the second row folded. One cool feature is the ability to turn the folded third-row seat into a makeshift chair—perfect for watching sports games or fireworks from the back of your vehicle.
In addition to the flexible seating, the Odyssey provides two center consoles in the front cabin, an unusual but incredibly useful feature. Whether it’s storing DVDs for the rear entertainment system or simply having extra space for snacks, the Odyssey offers a solution for everything.
Price and Final Thoughts
While pricing has increased slightly due to the new EXL base trim, the 2025 Honda Odyssey remains competitive in the minivan segment. Although many were hoping for a hybrid version or all-wheel drive, the Odyssey’s well-rounded features, including the Magic Slide seats, upgraded tech, and enhanced comfort, make it a strong contender for families who prioritize space and convenience.
For those torn between the 2025 Odyssey and the new Honda Pilot, it really comes down to how much you value the minivan’s family-oriented features. The Odyssey’s storage capacity, Magic Slide seats, and entertainment options give it a distinct edge over its SUV sibling.
Have any questions or comments? Drop them below, and I’ll be happy to answer them.
