NAIAS 2017: Honda Odyssey packs more family-friendly features

Integrated with more and improved family-friendly technology, the 2018 Honda Odyssey debuted at this year’s North American International Auto Show (NAIAS).

Despite a fleet of new features and technologies, the all-new Odyssey amazes even more with its signature appeal loved by consumers. Such new features include the uniquely versatile new Magic Slide second row seat, which allows the mid-section seats to be altered, slid, and removed for optimal passenger comfort. This feature includes four modes: Easy Access, Super, Wide, and Buddy, which all has unique optimization.

Among the noticeable new features of the Odyssey is the floating rear pillar, which for a fact, gives a sleeker appeal and touch. Another feature that will capture the eye is Honda’s signature flying wing front grille, symmetrically complemented by LED front headlights. More so, Odyssey’s signature ‘lightning bolt’ beltline adds up to its edgy charm.

While those top the exterior, high grade materials fill the inside of the all-new Odyssey. Instruments like the new 7-inch, full-color TFT display, and an 8-inch high-resolution display audio touchscreen interface accent the driver meter and center dash. Meanwhile, upper upgrades include stain-resistant leather seats in the first and second row.

With the integration of in-vehicle connectivity features such as CabinTalk and CabinWatch, the all-new Odyssey provides safer interaction between the driver and the passengers. Of note, CabinWatch uses cameras to let the driver monitor the back row, while the CabinTalk enables effortless communication with the use of second and third row speakers and headphones.

Moreover, with the next-generation advanced compatibility engineering (ACE) body structure of the Odyssey, plus a range of driver/passenger front and knee airbags, it targets a 5-star NCAP overall vehicle score and an IIHS Top Safety Pick+. More for safety includes Honda Sensing suite, collision mitigation braking system (CMBS), lane keeping assist (LKAS), road departure mitigation (RDM), and an adaptive cruise control (ACC).

The 2018 Odyssey hides a 3.5L i-VTEC V6 engine under its hood with Variable Cylinder Management that delivers 280 hp. Even more, 2 new transmission were made available for the new model: the 9-speed automatic, and the upper-upgrade 10-speed automatic - a first-time for a minivan.