The Honda Odyssey V, specifically the facelifted model introduced in 2021 with the 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower, represents a significant iteration in Honda’s long-running minivan lineage. Produced from 2020 through 2024, this version of the Odyssey continued to serve as Honda’s flagship family hauler, primarily targeted at the North American market. It built upon the foundation of the fifth-generation Odyssey (introduced in 2018), refining its styling, technology, and overall driving experience. This particular configuration – the 3.5L V6 paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission – occupied a prominent position in the lineup, generally representing the standard engine and transmission choice for most trim levels, offering a balance of power and efficiency for family transportation.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Honda |
| Model | Odyssey |
| Generation | Odyssey V (facelift 2021) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.5 V6 (280 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2020 |
| End of production | 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 8 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (EPA) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (EPA) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg, 33.6 UK mpg, 11.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (EPA) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | LEV3-ULEV70 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.1 kg/Hp, 140.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.6 kg/Nm, 177.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 280 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 80.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 355 Nm @ 4700 rpm (261.83 lb.-ft. @ 4700 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6900 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | J35Y7 |
| 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 | 11.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC, i-VTEC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.38 l (6.74 US qt | 5.61 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1995 kg (4398.22 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1093 l (38.6 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 4474 l (158 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 74 l (19.55 US gal | 16.28 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1588 kg (3500.94 lbs.) |
| Length | 5212 mm (205.2 in.) |
| Width | 1994 mm (78.5 in.) |
| Height | 1735 mm (68.31 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3000 mm (118.11 in.) |
| Front track | 1709 mm (67.28 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1707 mm (67.2 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.1 m (39.7 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 | 10 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer, Trailing arm |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 320 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 330 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/60 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 2021-2024 Honda Odyssey V facelift lies the J35Y7 engine, a 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6. This engine is a member of Honda’s well-regarded J-series family, known for its reliability and smooth power delivery. The J35Y7 utilizes Honda’s i-VTEC (intelligent Variable valve Timing and lift Electronic Control) system, which optimizes valve timing and lift based on engine speed and load, enhancing both performance and fuel efficiency. Direct fuel injection further contributes to improved combustion efficiency and power output. The engine produces 280 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 262 lb-ft of torque at 4700 rpm. This power is then channeled through a sophisticated 10-speed automatic transmission, replacing the 9-speed unit used in earlier versions of the fifth-generation Odyssey. The 10-speed transmission provides smoother shifts and a wider gear ratio spread, improving both acceleration and highway cruising efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The combination of the 280-hp V6 and the 10-speed automatic delivers a comfortable and capable driving experience. While not a performance-oriented vehicle, the Odyssey V offers ample power for everyday driving situations, including highway merging and passing maneuvers. The 10-speed transmission is well-tuned, providing smooth and responsive shifts. Compared to earlier Odyssey models with fewer gears, the 10-speed allows the engine to operate more efficiently at a wider range of speeds. The gear ratios are optimized for both acceleration and fuel economy. Compared to potential higher-output trims (if offered in other markets), this configuration prioritizes smooth, predictable power delivery over outright speed, making it ideal for families.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2021-2024 Honda Odyssey V 3.5L Automatic was available in several trim levels, including LX, EX, EX-L, and Touring. Even the base LX trim came standard with a respectable array of features, including Honda Sensing suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies (Collision Mitigation Braking System, Road Departure Mitigation System, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Lane Keeping Assist System), a multi-angle rearview camera, and a 5-inch color LCD screen. Higher trims added features such as leather upholstery, a power moonroof, a rear entertainment system, and a premium audio system. Interior upholstery typically consisted of cloth in lower trims and leather in higher trims. Dashboard configurations varied slightly depending on the trim level, with higher trims featuring larger touchscreen displays and more premium materials.
Chassis & Braking
The Odyssey V utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and an independent multi-link suspension in the rear. Both front and rear suspensions incorporate a transverse stabilizer bar to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The braking system is augmented by ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD). The suspension tuning prioritizes ride comfort, making the Odyssey a pleasant vehicle for long road trips.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2021-2024 Honda Odyssey V facelift was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and comprehensive suite of safety features. The 10-speed automatic transmission was also noted as an improvement over the previous 9-speed unit. Fuel economy was considered competitive for its class, averaging around 22 mpg combined. Compared to other minivans, such as the Chrysler Pacifica and Toyota Sienna, the Odyssey V offered a compelling blend of practicality, reliability, and refinement. The Sienna, with its hybrid powertrain, offered superior fuel economy, while the Pacifica offered available plug-in hybrid capability. However, the Odyssey V maintained a strong reputation for long-term reliability and resale value.
Legacy
The Honda Odyssey V 3.5L Automatic has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle. The J35Y7 engine is known for its longevity, and the 10-speed automatic transmission has also demonstrated good reliability. In the used car market, these Odysseys hold their value relatively well, particularly those that have been well-maintained. The combination of practicality, comfort, and reliability makes the Odyssey V a popular choice for families seeking a spacious and dependable minivan.
