The Honda Odyssey consistently ranks high among the Best Family Vans, and for good reason. Its innovative features, spacious interior, and family-friendly design make it a top contender for families on the go. Let’s explore what makes the Odyssey stand out.
The Magic Slide: Unrivaled Second-Row Versatility
The Odyssey’s unique “Magic Slide” second-row seating system sets it apart. Removing the middle seat creates a wide aisle, enabling easy access to the third row. The outboard seats can slide to the center, allowing even adults to comfortably reach the back. This feature simplifies child seat installation and provides convenient access for buckling children in.
Importantly, the Odyssey’s seat belts are attached to the seats themselves, not the doors. This means you can utilize the Magic Slide even with child seats installed using LATCH or seatbelts. This isn’t always the case with SUVs, where door-attached seat belts often restrict seat movement when car seats are in place. You can even remove the outboard seats entirely for maximum cargo space.
Rear Entertainment: Keeping Passengers Happy
The Odyssey offers a rear entertainment system with a ceiling-mounted screen. This placement maximizes space for rear-facing car seats and improves visibility for third-row passengers. While it might slightly obstruct the driver’s view, it provides a valuable distraction for kids on long trips.
Third-Row Comfort and Accessibility
The Odyssey boasts a spacious third row with ample legroom (38.1 inches), comparable to other leading minivans. The headrests are designed to accommodate forward-facing car seats without issue, and the lower anchors are well-positioned for easy car seat installation, including booster seats with LATCH.
Cargo Space and Tailgate Mode
While the Odyssey’s trunk space (32.8 cubic feet) is slightly smaller than some competitors, it’s still substantial. The third-row seats easily fold into the floor for increased cargo capacity. A fun “Tailgate Mode” allows the rear speakers to face outward, perfect for picnics or sporting events.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
The Odyssey isn’t without its drawbacks. One notable con is the lack of second and third-row ventilation in models 2017 and newer. This can be a significant issue, especially for children in rear-facing car seats. Additionally, the Odyssey isn’t available in all-wheel drive (AWD) or as a hybrid, limiting options for families in certain climates or seeking better fuel efficiency.
However, the Odyssey’s versatility shines. Its clever seating configurations, spacious third row, and abundance of family-friendly features make it a strong contender for the title of best family van. The Touring trim is particularly appealing, offering features like a power tailgate, CabinWatch, Wi-Fi, and rear entertainment.
Conclusion: A Top Choice for Families
The Honda Odyssey offers a compelling combination of practicality, innovation, and comfort. While the lack of AWD and rear ventilation are downsides, the Magic Slide, spacious interior, and numerous family-focused features solidify its position as a leading choice among minivans. If you’re searching for the best family van, the Honda Odyssey deserves serious consideration.
