The 2014 Honda Odyssey marked a significant refresh for this popular minivan, building upon its already strong reputation for reliability, practicality, and a comfortable driving experience. Known for enduring the rigors of family life better than many vehicles, the Odyssey’s dependability and versatility made it a top choice for buyers. Let’s delve into the top 10 aspects that make the 2014 Honda Odyssey a noteworthy minivan, even in today’s market.
1. Refreshed and Modern Exterior Styling
Minivans aren’t typically designed to be style icons, but the 2014 Honda Odyssey received updates to enhance its visual appeal. Honda focused on refining the front end with a redesigned bumper, hood, and grille. Notably, the hood and front fenders were constructed from aluminum, contributing to weight reduction and potentially improved fuel efficiency. The blacked-out grille added a touch of modern aggression, while new LED taillights brought the Odyssey’s rear styling in line with contemporary designs. These subtle yet effective changes helped the 2014 Odyssey maintain a fresh look against its competitors.
2. Enhanced Interior with Intuitive Touchscreen Interface
Addressing feedback on the previous model’s dashboard layout, the 2014 Odyssey introduced a user-friendly touch control system for the infotainment system. While some physical buttons remained, the touchscreen interface, standard on all but the base LX model, streamlined functionality and provided access to the new HondaLink system. This integration simplified smartphone connectivity for calls and audio streaming, giving the Odyssey a more modern edge compared to rivals like the Toyota Sienna in terms of in-car technology.
3. Reliable and Capable V-6 Engine Performance
Under the hood, every 2014 Honda Odyssey boasts a robust 3.5-liter V-6 engine producing 248 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission, incorporates cylinder deactivation technology to optimize fuel economy without sacrificing power when needed. With a towing capacity of 3,500 lbs, the Odyssey is capable of hauling small trailers or campers, similar to many crossovers. Like the Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan, the 2014 Odyssey is front-wheel drive, while those needing all-wheel drive in a minivan would need to consider the Toyota Sienna.
4. Improved Fuel Efficiency Across All Models
Previously, the more fuel-efficient six-speed automatic transmission was limited to higher trim levels of the Honda Odyssey. The 2014 model year changed this by making the six-speed automatic standard across the entire Odyssey lineup. This meant that all 2014 Odysseys achieved the EPA-estimated fuel economy of 19 mpg city and 28 mpg highway, regardless of the trim level, making it a more fuel-conscious choice for all buyers.
5. Spacious and Versatile Interior for Passengers and Cargo
Practicality is a core strength of the 2014 Honda Odyssey. It offers seating for up to eight passengers when equipped with the second-row bench seat, which can also accommodate three child seats simultaneously. A seven-passenger configuration with more spacious second-row captain’s chairs is also available. For cargo hauling, the Odyssey’s wide interior is exceptionally accommodating. Owners can fit 4×8-foot sheets of plywood with the third row folded down and the second row removed. In total, the 2014 Odyssey provides a massive 148 cubic feet of cargo space behind the front seats.
6. Diverse Trim Levels to Suit Various Needs and Budgets
The 2014 Honda Odyssey offered a range of five trim levels, starting with the base LX, which included essential features like power windows and locks, cruise control, front seat adjustments, and a rearview camera. Stepping up to the EX trim added an eighth passenger seat, tri-zone automatic climate control, power sliding doors, alloy wheels, and the new HondaLink touchscreen system. The EX-L trim further enhanced comfort with leather heated seats, a sunroof, and a power liftgate. The Touring trim introduced premium features like parking sensors, navigation, rear-seat entertainment, and larger 18-inch wheels. At the top of the range, the Touring Elite offered HID headlights, a widescreen rear entertainment system, and an upgraded audio experience.
7. Unique Integrated Vacuum Cleaner in Touring Elite Model
A standout feature exclusive to the 2014 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite was the integrated HondaVAC vacuum cleaner. Developed in collaboration with Shop-Vac, this built-in vacuum, located in the rear cargo area, could reach throughout the cabin. Designed for quick cleanups of spills and everyday messes, the HondaVAC operated for up to eight minutes after the engine was turned off and used replaceable bags and filters. This unique feature set the Odyssey Touring Elite apart from other minivans in the market.
8. Enhanced Safety Features and Construction
The Honda Odyssey already had a strong safety reputation, and the 2014 model further enhanced it with structural reinforcements designed to improve crashworthiness and rollover protection. New available safety technologies included a forward collision warning system and a lane departure warning system on higher trim levels. Blind spot monitoring was also offered, with the top-tier Touring Elite featuring an enhanced version of this system, contributing to a safer driving experience for families.
9. Exceptionally Quiet and Comfortable Cabin
The 2014 Honda Odyssey prioritized passenger comfort with a remarkably quiet cabin. It incorporated active noise cancellation technology, using the audio system to counteract unwanted frequencies. This system worked in conjunction with active engine mounts to minimize vibrations, particularly during cylinder deactivation for fuel efficiency, and to reduce road noise, making for a more peaceful and enjoyable ride for all occupants.
10. Premium Minivan Experience, Especially in Higher Trims
While the base 2014 Honda Odyssey LX started at a competitive price point, it was the higher trim levels, particularly the Touring Elite, that positioned the Odyssey as a more premium minivan option. The Touring Elite offered a comprehensive suite of luxury and convenience features that surpassed even well-equipped versions of competitors like the Chrysler Town & Country in terms of price and features. Buyers seeking top-of-the-line minivan amenities should consider if the premium features of the higher Odyssey trims justified the investment.
