Honda sharpens Odyssey

HONDA has released a facelifted Odyssey people-mover featuring a range of cosmetic and equipment upgrades for $2000 less than before.

On sale now at $37,100 plus on-road costs (previously $39,100), the 2012 Odyssey is claimed to feature specification upgrades valued at more than $2500.

The flagship Odyssey Luxury now costs $44,920 – down $1000.

The revised Odyssey, which arrives a month after Honda Australia offered the run-out model for $39,990 drive-away with free accessories and a five-year warranty, now comes standard with a multi-function touch-screen satellite-navigation system incorporating a reversing camera, DVD player and USB/Bluetooth connectivity with audio streaming and live traffic updates.

All new Odysseys now also come standard with steering wheel-mounted gearshift paddles and Honda’s ‘Ecological Drive Assist Program’ to improve fuel economy.



Exterior changes include a redesigned grille and headlights, while LED tail-lights are fitted for the first time alongside a chromed license-plate garnish and door handles.

Honda_Odyssey_lower.jpgThe Odyssey’s 132kW/218Nm 2.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and standard five-speed automatic transmission continues to consume 8.9L/100km.

“The Odyssey is a consistent performer with superior styling, advanced technology and fun-to-drive appeal,” said Honda Australia spokesman Lindsay Smalley.

“Now offering Australian families even better value, the Odyssey represents Honda’s commitment to engineering excellence and value for money.”Odyssey sales are down 11 per cent so far this year in Australia, where the stalwart Honda wagon is the third-best-selling people-mover with an 11.6 per cent share, behind Kia’s dominant Carnival (36.2 per cent) and Hyundai’s iMax (19.5 per cent).

To the end of November this year, Honda has sold 1064 Odysseys (compared to 1789 iMaxs and 3328 Carnivals) in a segment that is down more than 15 per cent.