The 2014 Honda Odyssey marks a coming of age for the top-selling minivan. It’s 21 years old now, but it’s been mature for many years. The new Odyssey is in the fourth year of its fourth generation from a design that debuted at the 2010 Chicago Auto Show.
The 2014 Honda Odyssey features a 24-valve, 248-horsepower engine and a six-speed automatic transmission. It has 0-60 mph acceleration in 7.9 seconds and comfortable seating in three rows and for seven or maybe eight adults. The interior and exterior designs are sleek, modern and ultimately non-minivan.
Key Takeaways
- Test van: the Touring Elite, the most expensive of five trims (LX, EX, EX-L, Touring and Touring Elite).
- 248 horsepower from a 24-valve engine with a six-speed automatic.
- 0-60 mph in 7.9 seconds.
- 19 mpg city and 28 highway in the 2014 rating.
- New for 2014: Bluetooth streaming audio, a Pandora interface, HD radio and an in-vehicle vacuum.
- Space: The Odyssey’s all-around spaciousness is impressive.
The Weekly Driver Test Drive
Available in five trim levels: LX, EX, EX-L, Touring and Touring Elite, I test drove the Touring Elite, the most expensive model, for the third straight year.
Although the Odyssey is in the fourth year of its current generation, the 2014 edition has been refreshed with higher quality sheet metal, and a better designed and less complex interior. New also for 2014 via standard equipment or in option packages are Bluetooth streaming audio, a Pandora interface, HD radio and an in-vehicle vacuum.
The Touring Elite model also features a rear-seat video entertainment system that includes a super-wide HD screen that can display two different program sources simultaneously.
Features and Space
Arguably most unique feature in the auto industry is the vacuum tucked away in a recessed left rear panel. It has two nozzle attachments and a 10-foot hose that reaches the front seats. I didn’t test the vacuum, but several national reviewers have commented the suction capability could be better.
2014 Honda Odyssey Verdict
The Odyssey’s all-around spaciousness is impressive. There’s headroom and legroom aplenty and comfort without compromise. It’s an ideal cruising car for a weekend getaway for three couples without having to worry about a gas-guzzler’s limitations.
Likewise, it’s an ideal soccer mom’s transport vehicle or a makeshift camper. It’s so strong in so many categories, it’s a perfectly fine car for an individual who just likes its feel on the road on a solo trek or with his or her seven closest friends.
Likes
Quiet ride.
Agile maneuvering.
Good acceleration for its class.
Deep trunk.
Large, clear navigation system and back-up camera screen.
Easy entrance, exit.
Strong overall vision.
Dislikes
Base price too high in higher-end models.
It’s called a minivan, which could discourage buyers who think it’s actually a minivan.
Facts & Figures: 2014 Honda Odyssey
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Trim | Touring Elite |
| Engine | 3.5-liter V6 |
| Horsepower | 248 hp |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| 0-60 mph | 7.9 seconds |
| Fuel Economy (2014 rating) | 19 city / 28 highway / 22 combined mpg |
| Fuel Economy (current EPA) | 19 city / 27 highway / 22 combined mpg |
| Fuel Type | Regular |
James Raia
A sports, travel and business journalist for more than 45 years, James has written the new car review column The Weekly Driver since 2004. In addition to founding this site in 2004, James writes a Sunday automotive column for The San Jose Mercury and East Bay Times in Walnut Creek, Calif., and monthly auto review and wellness columns for Gulfshore Business, a magazine in Southwest Florida. An author and contributor to many newspapers, magazines and online publications, co-hosted The Weekly Driver Podcast from 2017 to 2024.
