The 2024 Honda Odyssey remains a top choice for families needing space and reliability. If you’re in the market, you might be asking: 2024 Honda Odyssey: Is There Going To Be A Change? The short answer is no, not really. For the 2024 model year, Honda is sticking with the familiar formula that has made the Odyssey a best-seller. This means you can expect the same practical minivan, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to talk about. Let’s look at what’s staying the same, what tiny tweaks exist, and whether you should buy now or wait.
2024 Honda Odyssey: Is There Going To Be A Change?
In the world of minivans, major updates are few and far between. The current generation Odyssey was introduced for the 2018 model year and typically receives a mid-cycle refresh around year four or five. That refresh already happened for the 2022 model, which brought updated styling and new features. Therefore, the 2024 Odyssey is best understood as a carryover model from 2023. This is actually good news for shoppers, as it means the van is tried, tested, and any early kinks have been worked out.
What’s New for the 2024 Honda Odyssey?
Honestly, the list of new features is very short. Honda has decided to keep things consistent, focusing on offering a well-rounded package without major alterations. Here’s the breakdown:
* Color Changes: The most noticeable change is the arrival of a new exterior paint color. Urban Gray Pearl replaces the previous Sonic Gray Pearl. It’s a similar sophisticated, modern gray but with a slightly different tone.
* Feature Adjustments: There are some minor shuffles in standard and optional equipment across the trim levels, mostly to streamline production. For example, some features that were optional on lower trims may now be standard, and vice-versa.
* No Mechanical Changes: The powertrain, suspension, and all major mechanical components are unchanged. This means you get the same smooth and efficient driving experience.
A Detailed Look at the 2024 Odyssey Trim Levels
The 2024 Odyssey continues to be offered in five main trim levels: LX, EX, EX-L, Touring, and Elite. Understanding the differences is key to choosing the right one for your family’s budget and needs.
1. Odyssey LX
The LX is the entry point, but it’s far from bare-bones. It includes a great set of standard features perfect for many families.
* Engine: 3.5-liter V6 with 280 horsepower.
* Infotainment: 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
* Safety: The full Honda Sensing® suite of driver-assist technologies is standard.
* Seating: 8-passenger seating with cloth upholstery.
* Key Feature: The innovative Magic Slide® second-row seats are standard on all trims, starting with the LX.
2. Odyssey EX
The EX adds several popular features that enhance comfort and convenience. It’s often considered the best value trim.
* Adds Over LX: Power sliding doors and liftgate, tri-zone climate control, and a built-in vacuum cleaner (HondaVAC®).
* Infotainment Upgrade: A larger 10.2-inch color screen for the driver’s instrument cluster.
* Practical Perk: The one-touch walk-in feature for easier third-row access.
3. Odyssey EX-L
This trim focuses on adding comfort and a more premium feel inside the cabin.
* Adds Over EX: Leather-trimmed seats, a power-adjustable passenger seat, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.
* Entertainment: An optional rear-seat entertainment system is available on this trim.
* Sound Upgrade: A premium audio system is also an available option.
4. Odyssey Touring
The Touring trim brings significant tech and convenience upgrades, aiming for a more luxurious experience.
* Adds Over EX-L: Built-in rear-seat entertainment system with a 10.2-inch screen, HD Radio, and a rear-seat reminder.
* Driver Assist: Adds a front passenger-side blind spot camera (the LaneWatch™ system).
* Wheels: Distinctive 19-inch alloy wheels.
5. Odyssey Elite
As the top-of-the-line model, the Elite leaves little to be desired. It includes almost every feature Honda offers.
* Adds Over Touring: Heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a cabin talk in-car PA system.
* Premium Sound: A premium 11-speaker audio system from Bose®.
* Comfort: Perforated leather seats and noise-reducing windshield glass.
The Heart of the Van: Performance and Powertrain
Every 2024 Odyssey is powered by a 3.5-liter i-VTEC® V6 engine. It produces 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard; all-wheel drive is not available on the Odyssey.
* Driving Feel: The engine is smooth and provides plenty of power for merging and passing. The 10-speed transmission shifts seamlessly.
* Fuel Economy: EPA estimates are 19 mpg city / 28 mpg highway / 22 mpg combined. Real-world driving often sees numbers in the low-to-mid 20s, which is respectable for a vehicle of this size.
* Towing Capacity: When properly equipped, the Odyssey can tow up to 3,500 pounds. That’s enough for a small trailer or several jet skis.
Interior and Family-Friendly Features
This is where the Odyssey truly shines. Honda has long been praised for its clever interior packaging, and the Odyssey is the pinnacle of that philosophy.
The Magic Slide® Second-Row Seats
This is arguably the Odyssey’s signature feature. The second-row seats can slide side-to-side in addition to fore and aft.
* You can create a wide aisle for easy third-row access.
* You can also slide the seats together to place three child seats side-by-side, which is a game-changer for some families.
Cabin Watch and Cabin Talk
These features help the driver stay connected with passengers in the back.
* Cabin Watch: A ceiling-mounted camera lets you see the second- and third-row seats on the infotainment screen.
* Cabin Talk: A microphone lets you speak to rear passengers through the rear speakers, so you don’t have to raise your voice.
The Incredible Magic Seat® (Third Row)
The Odyssey’s third row doesn’t just fold flat—it folds into the floor. This creates a completely flat load surface when you need maximum cargo space. It’s a simple, one-step process that other minivans still can’t match.
Honda Sensing® Safety Suite
Every 2024 Odyssey comes standard with a comprehensive set of driver-assist technologies. This is a huge value point. The suite includes:
* Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™): Can apply brakes if a collision is deemed unavoidable.
* Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM): Helps steer you back into your lane if you start to drift off the road.
* Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): Maintains a set following distance from the car ahead.
* Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS): Provides gentle steering input to help keep you centered in your lane.
Should You Buy a 2024 Odyssey or Wait?
This is the million-dollar question. Here’s a simple guide to help you decide.
Buy the 2024 Honda Odyssey if:
* You need a new minivan right now and love the current design and features.
* You value reliability and a proven track record over the latest, untested tech.
* You can find a good deal or incentive on the 2024 model, especially as the year goes on.
Consider Waiting if:
* You are not in urgent need of a new vehicle.
* You expect a full redesign soon (likely for the 2025 or 2026 model year).
* You want the absolute latest in hybrid or electric powertrain technology, which the current Odyssey does not offer.
How It Stacks Up Against the Competition
The minivan segment is small but fierce. Here’s a quick comparison:
* Toyota Sienna: The biggest threat. It’s only available as a hybrid, offering much better fuel economy (36 mpg combined). However, its third row doesn’t fold into the floor as neatly, and some find its four-cylinder engine noisier.
* Chrysler Pacifica: Offers a plug-in hybrid variant, stowable second-row seats, and a more car-like interior feel. Reliability ratings have historically been a concern for some shoppers though.
* Kia Carnival: Markets itself as an “MPV” with SUV styling. It has a bold look and a great warranty, but lacks some of the Odyssey’s clever seat features.
Finding the Best Deal on a 2024 Odyssey
Since it’s a carryover model, you have an advantage as a buyer. Dealerships may be more willing to negotiate, especially on in-stock inventory. Follow these steps:
1. Research Inventory Online: Use Honda’s website to see what trims and colors are available at dealers near you.
2. Get Pre-Approved Financing: Know your interest rate from a bank or credit union before you walk into the dealership.
3. Contact Multiple Dealers: Get out-the-door price quotes from at least three different dealerships via email or phone.
4. Consider Timing: End-of-month, end-of-quarter, and holiday sales events can sometimes yield better incentives.
Verdict: A Refined, Carryover Champion
The 2024 Honda Odyssey is not trying to reinvent the wheel. It’s a refinement of a formula that already works exceptionally well. For families who prioritize interior flexibility, driving comfort, and proven reliability, it remains one of the very best choices on the market. The lack of major change for 2024 is a sign of confidence, not complacency. While the hybrid powertrain of the Toyota Sienna is tempting, the Odyssey counters with a smoother V6, more intuitive family features, and a reputation for lasting a very long time. If you find a configuration you like at a price that fits your budget, you can buy a 2024 Odyssey with complete confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is the 2024 Honda Odyssey a new model?
A: No, the 2024 Odyssey is not a new model. It is a carryover from the 2023 model year with only minor changes, like a new paint color.
Q: What is the biggest change for the 2024 Odyssey?
A: The most notable change is the introduction of Urban Gray Pearl as a new exterior color option, replacing Sonic Gray Pearl.
Q: Does the 2024 Odyssey have a hybrid engine?
A: No, the 2024 Honda Odyssey does not offer a hybrid or electric option. It uses a 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Q: Are there any new safety features for 2024?
A: The Honda Sensing® suite remains standard, and there are no major new safety features added for the 2024 model year. The package is already very comprehensive.
Q: Should I wait for the 2025 Honda Odyssey?
A: It depends on your needs. A redesign is likely coming soon, possibly for 2025. If you want the latest design and potential hybrid tech, waiting might be wise. If you need a van now, the 2024 is an excellent choice.
Q: What is the starting price of the 2024 Odyssey?
A: The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) starts around $38,000 for the base LX trim, but the final price can vary based on trim, options, and dealer fees.
Q: Does it have all-wheel drive (AWD)?
A: No, the Honda Odyssey is only available with front-wheel drive. If you need AWD, you would need to look at the Toyota Sienna or Chrysler Pacifica.