2016 Honda Odyssey

2016 Honda Odyssey Highlights

For 2016, the Honda Odyssey minivan is much the same as it was in 2015. The most significant change is the introduction of the 2016 Honda Odyssey SE, which slots between the EX and EX-L models. It’s intended as a less costly way to get the most desirable features in the 2016 Honda Odyssey Touring and Touring Elite trims. The SE includes the rear-seat entertainment system, SiriusXM satellite radio, and the convenient HondaVAC built-in vacuum cleaner. In 2017, a new Odyssey debuted as a 2018 model.

Key Details

• Minivan body style
• Three-row seating for 7 to 8 passengers
• 3.5L V6 engine with 248 horsepower
• Six-speed automatic transmission
• Front-wheel drive
• Maximum cargo capacity of 148.5 cubic feet

Benefits

• Refined and powerful V6 engine
• Spacious, versatile interior with easy-folding third-row
• Innovative available features like HondaVAC
• Top crash test scores and available Honda Sensing safety tech
• Strong resale value and reliability reputation

Learn More: How Long Do Honda Odysseys Last? The Scoop on Vehicle Longevity

2016 Honda Odyssey Overview

Performance

The 2016 Honda Odyssey offers one engine option:

3.5-liter V6 engine:

• 248 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque
• Standard across all trim levels
• Front-wheel drive (FWD) only
• Six-speed automatic transmission

Honda’s durable, reliable, and robust V6 routes power through a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission that drives the front wheels. While “V6, FWD, automatic” doesn’t sound like an exciting combination, the Odyssey is one of the most lauded driver’s minivans on the market. The V6 deserves much of the credit for this reputation.

While not as fuel-efficient as the four-cylinder engine in some rivals, the Odyssey's V6 trades mpg for muscle. It never has any issue hauling a full load of passengers and cargo, is smooth and refined, and emits a pleasing muted growl under hard acceleration. The six-speed automatic transmission shifts promptly and unobtrusively. 0-60 mph times may not sound impressive at 7.7 seconds, but the Odyssey feels strong, and acceleration is effortless.

2016 Honda Odyssey oil capacity:

• 4.5 quarts with filter, 4.2 quarts without filter

2016 Honda Odyssey oil type:

• 0W-20 for all temperatures

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the Odyssey a top five-star overall safety rating. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named the 2016 Odyssey a Top Safety Pick, the group’s second-highest designation.

Standard safety features across all trims include:

• Multiple airbags
• Stability control
• Traction control
• Anti-lock brakes
• Rearview camera

The EX-L trim and above also get:

• Forward collision warning
• Lane departure warning
• Expanded blind-spot monitoring (Touring Elite)

Honda’s LaneWatch blind-spot monitoring system is included on EX trims and higher. When the right turn signal is activated, LaneWatch displays a camera view of the passenger-side blind spot on the infotainment screen.

Driving

While many driving enthusiasts may regard minivans as anti-fun, thankfully, the Odyssey famously rejects this notion. The 2016 Odyssey’s suspension performs a magic trick, combining a comfortable ride with precision handling. It is predictable but not stiff, smooth but not floaty, and the V6 and six-speed auto transmission always respond quickly to stabs of the throttle.

As should be expected from Honda, steering precision is accurate and well-weighted. When the roads become twisty, the Odyssey seems to shrink, convincingly resembling a sports sedan. Still, road and wind noise are successfully suppressed for a serene interior. This makes the Odyssey the perfect companion for long trips on straight, endless highways.

Interior

Passenger space is generous in all three rows, with even the third row offering enough head and legroom for average-sized adults. The second row can be configured with a three-person bench or a pair of captain's chairs. Both setups provide plenty of comfort and support.

Material quality is high for the class. Stepping up to higher trims brings even nicer materials, such as the leather seats that begin in the 2016 Honda Odyssey EX-L trim. Controls are logically arranged and easy to use. The Odyssey's signature interior feature is its versatile seating and cargo configurations:

• Third row folds flat into the floor
• Available second-row seats slide laterally
• Optional HondaVAC built-in vacuum
• Up to 148.5 cubic feet of cargo space with second and third rows folded
• Deep storage well behind the third row

Perhaps the most impressive part of the interior is Honda’s “Magic Seat.” The 60/40 split third row folds neatly into the floor, and the second row widens by 1.5 inches, which lets three child seats fit neatly next to each other. Base Odyssey LX trims don’t get the multi-function second row with its middle seat, limiting max seating to seven passengers. EX and higher trims can seat eight.

Technology

All 2016 Odyssey models get an 8-inch infotainment display, Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio streaming, and a USB port. EX trims and above add HondaLink smartphone integration, allowing owners to connect compatible iOS and Android devices. The system can access popular apps like Pandora and Aha Radio. Navigation with voice recognition is standard on EX-L, Touring, and Touring Elite models.

Touring Elite trims come loaded with tech features:

• 650-watt, 12-speaker premium audio system
• Rear-seat DVD entertainment system with 16.2-inch screen
• HondaVAC in-vehicle vacuum cleaner
• HDMI input for gaming consoles
• 110V household-style power outlet

Fuel Economy

2016 Honda Odyssey gas mileage is considered average compared to other V6-powered minivans. EPA fuel economy estimates are as follows:

• FWD (mpg): 19 city / 27 highway / 22 combined

2016 Honda Odyssey Reviews

Consumer reviews on Kelley Blue Book give the 2016 Honda Odyssey an overall rating of 4.2 out of five. Owners praise the Odyssey for its styling, comfort, performance, and reliability.

Reasons to Buy It

• Cavernous interior with versatile seating arrangements
• Powerful yet fuel-efficient V6 engine
• Smooth, comfortable ride quality
• You can get a built-in vacuum cleaner
• IIHS Top Safety Pick with available Honda Sensing
• Excellent resale value

Problems

• Some desirable features are limited to higher trims
• Pricier than some rival minivans
• Front-wheel drive only; no all-wheel drive option
• Removing second-row seats is a cumbersome process
• Infotainment system lacks Apple CarPlay/Android Auto

Explore: Here Are The Honda Odyssey Years To Avoid

CoPilot's Take

There’s a reason Honda Odyssey resale values remain high. When a family is looking for a minivan with unique, interesting features, a surprisingly spry and sporty driving experience, a refined ride, and unique features such as a built-in vacuum cleaner, the Odyssey is at the top of the heap. The Odyssey's spacious cabin and versatile seating configurations make it ideal for hauling people and cargo. At the same time, its gutsy V6 engine and poised handling give it a more engaging driving character than the average minivan.

It’s hard to find downsides, but one of the most consistently-commented frustrations is that used Odysseys command a price premium over some competitors and can be hard to find. The Odyssey justifies the extra cost with its sterling reliability reputation and class-above interior materials. Features like the HondaVAC vacuum cleaner and Magic Seat don’t hurt, either.

2016 Honda Odyssey FAQ

Is 2016 a good year for a Honda Odyssey?

Yes, 2016 is an excellent year for the Honda Odyssey. It received minimal changes from the previous model year, keeping all the traits that make it a perennial favorite. The roomy and versatile interior, refined driving dynamics, top safety ratings, and innovative features like the HondaVAC built-in vacuum cleaner make the Odyssey a consistent winner.

How many miles will a 2016 Honda Odyssey last?

A 2016 Honda Odyssey can last well over 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. There are numerous reports of older Odysseys exceeding the 300,000-mile mark. The key to longevity is staying current with the recommended service schedule, which includes regular oil changes, tire rotations, and inspections.

What is the most common problem with a 2016 Honda Odyssey?

According to RepairPal, the most commonly reported issue involves the electric sliding doors. Some users report that one or both doors refuse to close when the button is pushed; the doors close as soon as they’re opened or won’t open at all. Users have also reported problems with the transmission shifting roughly, which can be a precursor to transmission failure.

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