2018 Honda Odyssey EX-L

Meet the 2018 Honda Odyssey EX-L — a family-friendly minivan that blends V6 power, thoughtful versatility, and a level of comfort that turns every trip into a little celebration. Under the hood is the smooth, refined 3.5L V6 that delivers a hearty 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, giving you confident passing power on the highway, responsive acceleration for merging, and the ability to tow light loads when the weekend calls for bikes, a small trailer, or extra gear. This front-wheel-drive Odyssey balances performance with everyday efficiency; EPA estimates generally fall in the neighborhood of the high teens in the city and upper-20s on the highway (actual mileage will vary by driving conditions and vehicle configuration).

Comfort and cabin craftsmanship are standout features on the EX-L. The “L” in the trim name signals leather-trimmed seating throughout the cabin, bringing a premium feel to family outings. Front seats are supportive and designed for longer drives — typically including heated functionality for both driver and front passenger — and the driver’s seat offers multi-way power adjustment with lumbar support to dial in the perfect driving position. Second-row captain’s chairs deliver both comfort and clever adjustability: the Odyssey’s highly regarded Magic Slide second-row system lets you shift, slide, and recline the middle seats to create a wide passageway to the third row or to customize spacing for passengers and cargo. The third row folds and stows easily with one-motion operation to expand cargo capacity quickly when you need it, while still providing comfortable seating for adults or growing kids on longer trips.

Everyday usability is a strong suit. EX-L models typically include dual or tri-zone automatic climate control so front and rear passengers can enjoy individualized comfort. Rear-seat climate controls and dedicated vents help keep back-seat passengers cozy without compromising front-seat comfort. Thoughtful storage abounds — deep center console, multiple cupholders, door pockets, and under-seat compartments — making it simple to keep snacks, devices, and gear organized. Power features like remote entry and power windows are standard, and many EX-Ls come with a power tailgate or liftgate for easy access to the cargo area — especially handy when your hands are full with groceries, strollers, and sports equipment.

Infotainment and connectivity on the EX-L are user-friendly and family-savvy. A responsive touchscreen display serves as the hub for audio, hands-free phone connectivity via Bluetooth, and smartphone integration and streaming (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility are available on many 2018 Odysseys). Multiple USB ports and auxiliary inputs keep devices charged and passengers entertained on long drives; some models also include HDMI input or a rear entertainment system as optional equipment for movies and game consoles. An intuitive steering-wheel-mounted control cluster keeps commonly used features within easy reach, and available features like voice recognition make it easier to stay connected safely on the road.

Safety is a priority in the Odyssey lineup. Standard safety systems include anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), traction control and stability assist (Honda’s Vehicle Stability Assist), a comprehensive array of airbags (front, side-impact, and side curtain airbags covering all three rows), and a multi-angle rearview camera for confident parking and reversing. The Odyssey also incorporates LATCH anchors for easy and secure installation of child seats, and a tire pressure monitoring system to help maintain optimal handling and fuel efficiency.