2021 Honda Odyssey Performance

The 2021 Honda Odyssey's performance is among the best in the class. This minivan has a powerful engine, composed handling, and good fuel economy.

• "The 2021 Odyssey is at least as responsive and controlled as many SUV/crossovers. It’s not particularly thrilling, but it’s not a chore either." -- Kelley Blue Book
• "If there's such a thing as a 'driver's car' among minivans, the Honda Odyssey is it. A strong V6 engine delivers plenty of power while the van's precise steering and stable handling instill confidence at higher speeds and on tighter roads." -- Edmunds (2020)
• "Thankfully, the Odyssey is still the best handling minivan. If an engaging driving experience is important, get the Odyssey." -- Autotrader (2018)

Engine Options, Horsepower, and Acceleration

• Engine: 280-horsepower 3.5-liter V6
• Drivetrain: front-wheel drive
• Transmission: 10-speed automatic

The Honda Odyssey offers good acceleration and provides ample power for both driving around town and on the highway. Transmission shifts are quick and precise.

• "Fleet-footed, efficient, and polished, the Odyssey's powertrain is a sweetheart that requires zero compromises." -- Car and Driver
• "The standard-issue 3.5-liter V6 pulls strongly, sweetly, and almost silently. The 10-speed automatic transmission executes virtually imperceptible shifts. The drivetrain remains relaxed at freeway speeds, returning 28 mpg on the highway." -- Kelley Blue Book
• "There's a lot of parity in the minivan class, but the Odyssey's V6 stands out with its smoothness and willingness to rev. Even with passengers aboard, the Odyssey's V6 makes quick work of accelerating up to highway speeds or passing traffic. … Ten speeds might seem excessive, but the transmission's quick shifting is unobtrusive and good at selecting the best gear for your needs." -- Edmunds (2019)

MPG Estimates

The 2021 Odyssey gets an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, which is above average for a minivan.

Handling and Braking

The Odyssey delivers a comfortable ride, and it's easy to drive. Steering is light, and while there could be more feedback from the road, handling is impressive for a minivan.

• "On all roads, the ride is simultaneously smooth and confident (with the 18-inch wheel/tire combination, at least), contributing to the Odyssey’s refined air." -- Kelley Blue Book
• "The Odyssey focuses on providing a supremely quiet, comfortable and isolating ride. Steering, in particular, is light in effort and feedback. This is not a complaint, the minivan world has other priorities." -- Autotrader
• "The Odyssey changes direction crisply, and from behind the wheel it's easy to forget you're piloting a three-row van. The steering is direct and the effort is light, but more feedback from the road would be welcome. Driving enthusiasts won't rave—it's still a minivan, after all—but the Odyssey is the best-driving minivan, and its nimbleness makes it competent in corners and easy to drive on narrow roads." -- Car and Driver