The Honda Odyssey IV 3.5 V6 (248 Hp) represents a significant iteration in Honda’s long-running minivan lineage. Produced from 2011 to 2013, this variant occupied a key position within the fourth generation (2011-2017) of the Odyssey, known internally as the RL platform. It was primarily aimed at the North American market, where minivans remained a popular choice for families seeking spacious and practical transportation. This particular configuration, featuring the 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission, was a mainstay of the Odyssey lineup, offering a balance of power, fuel efficiency, and affordability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Honda |
| Model | Odyssey |
| Generation | Odyssey IV |
| Type (Engine) | 3.5 V6 (248 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 7-8 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg, 21.6 UK mpg, 7.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.9 kg/Hp, 126 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.8 kg/Nm, 172.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 248 Hp @ 5700 rpm |
| Power per litre | 71.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 339 Nm @ 4800 rpm (250.03 lb.-ft. @ 4800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | J35Z8 |
| Engine displacement | 3471 cm3 (211.81 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 93 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC, i-VTEC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.3 l (7.71 US qt | 6.42 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1969 kg (4340.9 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1087 l (38.39 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 4205 l (148.5 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 79 l (20.87 US gal | 17.38 UK gal) |
| Length | 5153 mm (202.87 in.) |
| Width | 1997 mm (78.62 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2011 mm (79.17 in.) |
| Height | 1737 mm (68.39 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3000 mm (118.11 in.) |
| Front track | 1730 mm (68.11 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1732 mm (68.19 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 151 mm (5.94 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.2 m (36.75 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone, Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 320.04 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 332.74 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/65 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Odyssey IV 3.5 V6 is Honda’s J35Z8 engine, a 3.5-liter, naturally aspirated V6. This engine is a member of the J-series family, known for its reliability and smooth operation. The J35Z8 utilizes a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) cylinder head with Honda’s Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) system. This technology optimizes valve timing for improved performance and fuel efficiency across the engine’s operating range. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-point fuel injection system. The engine produces 248 horsepower at 5700 rpm and 250 lb-ft of torque at 4800 rpm. The engine’s transverse mounting and front-wheel-drive configuration contribute to its compact packaging within the minivan’s chassis.
Paired with the J35Z8 is a 5-speed automatic transmission. This transmission was chosen for its smooth shifting characteristics and its ability to provide adequate acceleration without sacrificing fuel economy. While not as technologically advanced as some of the continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) that would become more common in later years, the 5-speed automatic proved to be a durable and reliable component.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.5 V6 and 5-speed automatic combination in the Odyssey IV delivers a comfortable and capable driving experience. Acceleration is brisk, particularly when compared to earlier generations of minivans. The engine provides ample power for highway merging and passing maneuvers, even when fully loaded with passengers and cargo. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly and predictably, although it lacks the responsiveness of some more modern transmissions. The gear ratios are tuned for a balance of fuel efficiency and performance, prioritizing smooth cruising over outright acceleration. Compared to the base 4-cylinder Odyssey models, the V6 offers a significant performance advantage, but at the cost of slightly reduced fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Odyssey IV 3.5 V6 was typically offered in EX, EX-L, and Touring trim levels. The EX trim included standard features such as alloy wheels, a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a USB audio interface. The EX-L added leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a power moonroof. The top-of-the-line Touring trim included features such as a navigation system, a rear entertainment system, and premium audio. All trims featured Honda’s Magic Slide 2nd-row seats, which allowed for flexible seating configurations and easy access to the third row.
Chassis & Braking
The Odyssey IV utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and an independent multi-link suspension in the rear. This suspension setup provides a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The steering is rack-and-pinion with electric power assist. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs in the front and solid discs in the rear. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) are standard. The suspension was tuned to prioritize ride comfort over sporty handling, making it well-suited for long road trips and everyday driving.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Honda Odyssey IV 3.5 V6 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and strong V6 engine. Critics noted that the 5-speed automatic transmission was adequate but not class-leading. Fuel economy was considered average for the segment. Compared to competitors such as the Toyota Sienna and Chrysler Town & Country, the Odyssey offered a compelling combination of features, reliability, and value. The Sienna often received praise for its available all-wheel drive, while the Town & Country offered Stow ‘n Go seating.
Legacy
The Honda Odyssey IV 3.5 V6 has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle. The J35 engine family is known for its longevity, and the 5-speed automatic transmission is generally trouble-free. In the used car market, these Odysseys remain popular choices for families seeking a spacious and dependable minivan. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and transmission fluid services, is crucial for ensuring the long-term health of the powertrain. While not the most fuel-efficient option in its class, the Odyssey IV 3.5 V6 continues to offer a practical and comfortable transportation solution for many years after its production ended.
