The Honda Odyssey has long stood as a pillar in the minivan segment, offering families a blend of versatility, comfort, and reliability. When comparing the Honda Odyssey 2017 vs 2018 models, we’re looking at a transition between generations that brought significant changes to this beloved family vehicle.
The 2018 model year marked the debut of the fifth-generation Odyssey, while the 2017 version represented the final iteration of the fourth generation. These adjacent model years present an interesting case study in Honda’s evolution of its premier people carrier.
For families considering a pre-owned Odyssey, understanding the differences between the 2017 and 2018 Honda Odyssey models can help make a more informed decision. The generation changeover means more than just subtle updates—it represents a comprehensive redesign of Honda’s approach to family transportation.
Table of Contents
Design and Exterior Styling
The exterior design marks one of the most apparent differences when comparing the Honda Odyssey 2017 vs 2018. The 2017 model, representing the outgoing generation, featured Honda’s familiar “lightning bolt” beltline design that had defined the model for years. This distinctive side profile gave the Odyssey a unique character in the minivan market, but by 2017, the design was showing its age compared to refreshed competitors.
Key Exterior Changes
When the 2018 Odyssey arrived, Honda introduced a significantly more modern and sophisticated exterior. The fifth-generation model abandoned the lightning bolt side design in favour of a cleaner, more upscale appearance. The 2018 Odyssey features a bold front fascia with Honda’s “flying wing” grille design and standard LED headlights across all trim levels—a feature only available on higher trims of the 2017 model.
The body lines of the 2018 model are more sculpted and contemporary, giving the Odyssey a less utilitarian appearance than its predecessor. The 2018 redesign also introduced the available hands-free power tailgate, which wasn’t offered on any trim level of the 2017 Odyssey. Overall, the 2017 and 2018 Honda Odyssey models represent two distinct design philosophies, with the newer generation embracing a more premium aesthetic that aligns with modern family preferences.
Interior Features and Technology
Stepping inside both the 2017 and 2018 Honda Odyssey reveals perhaps the most significant differences between the 2017 vs 2018 Honda Odyssey models. The 2017 Odyssey, while comfortable and practical, featured an interior design and technology package that was beginning to feel dated compared to rivals. The cabin materials were durable but lacked some of the premium touches that families were increasingly expecting in this price segment.
Cabin Comfort and Flexibility
The 2018 Odyssey completely reimagined the interior space with higher-quality materials, a more contemporary dashboard design, and significantly improved technology integration. Both the 2017 and 2018 Honda Odyssey models offer eight-passenger seating, but the 2018 model introduced the innovative Magic Slide second-row seats. This system allows the second-row seats to slide sideways, providing easier access to the third row and more flexible seating configurations—a feature not available in the 2017 model.
The technology leap between the 2017 and 2018 Honda Odyssey models is substantial. The 2018 model introduced an all-new infotainment system with a larger 8-inch touchscreen (compared to the 2017’s 7-inch display) and, importantly, added Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility as standard on most trims. The 2018 Odyssey also debuted family-friendly innovations like CabinWatch (an interior camera to monitor rear passengers) and CabinTalk (an intercom system)—features that weren’t available on any 2017 model.
Powertrain and Performance
Under the bonnet, the Honda Odyssey 2017 vs 2018 comparison reveals evolutionary rather than revolutionary changes. Both the 2017 and 2018 Honda Odyssey years feature a 3.5-litre V6 engine, but there are notable distinctions in power output and transmission options that affect the driving experience.
Engine and Transmission Upgrades
The 2017 Odyssey’s 3.5-litre V6 produced 248 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a 6-speed automatic transmission on most trims or a 6-speed automatic with paddle shifters on the Touring and Elite models. This powertrain provided adequate performance for family duties but wasn’t particularly remarkable in the segment.
For the 2018 model, Honda upgraded the 3.5-litre V6 to deliver 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque—a significant increase that improved acceleration and overall drivability. More importantly, the 2018 Odyssey introduced new transmission options: a 9-speed automatic on lower trims and an all-new 10-speed automatic on Touring and Elite models. These transmissions improved both performance and fuel efficiency, giving the 2018 Odyssey a more refined driving character than its predecessor.
When comparing the 2017 and 2018 Honda Odyssey models on fuel economy, the newer generation holds a slight advantage despite its power increase. The 2018 model achieves approximately 19 mpg city and 28 mpg highway, compared to the 2017’s ratings of 19 mpg city and 27 mpg highway—a testament to the efficiency gains from the new transmissions.
Safety Features
Safety is paramount for family vehicles, and the comparison between the Honda Odyssey 2017 vs 2018 models shows Honda’s commitment to continuous improvement in this area. Both model years offer strong crash protection, but the standard and available safety technologies differ significantly.
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems
The 2017 Odyssey offered Honda’s LaneWatch system (a camera showing the passenger-side blind spot) on higher trims, along with available forward collision warning and lane departure warning. However, these features weren’t standard across all trim levels, and more advanced driver assistance systems were limited.
For the 2018 redesign, Honda made a dramatic step forward by making the Honda Sensing safety suite standard on EX trims and above (representing the majority of Odyssey sales). This comprehensive package includes collision mitigation braking, road departure mitigation, adaptive cruise control, and lane keeping assist. The 2018 model also replaced the LaneWatch system with a more conventional but more effective blind-spot monitoring system with cross-traffic alert.
This safety technology upgrade represents one of the most compelling reasons to choose the 2018 Odyssey over the 2017 model, especially for safety-conscious families. The 2017 and 2018 Honda Odyssey models both earned 5-star overall safety ratings from NHTSA, but the standard advanced driver assistance features give the 2018 a significant advantage in accident prevention capabilities.
Practical Features and Convenience
Beyond style, performance, and safety, minivans are judged heavily on their practical features and convenience elements. The Honda Odyssey 2017 vs 2018 comparison shows meaningful improvements in these crucial areas.
Family-Friendly Innovations
The 2017 Odyssey offered practical features like the available HondaVAC built-in vacuum cleaner on the top Touring Elite trim, power sliding doors, and a versatile split-folding third row. These features made it a capable family haulier, though some competitors offered more innovative solutions.
With the 2018 redesign, Honda doubled down on convenience features. The HondaVAC became available on more trim levels, and new innovations appeared. The Social Play List feature allows passengers to add songs to the vehicle’s audio queue from their smartphones, while the previously mentioned CabinWatch and CabinTalk features help parents monitor and communicate with children in the rear seats.
Perhaps most notable for busy families is the 2018 model’s improved cargo capacity and reconfigurability. While both the 2017 and 2018 Honda Odyssey models offer similar maximum cargo volumes (approximately 158 cubic feet with second and third rows folded), the 2018’s Magic Slide second row and easier-folding third row make accessing this space more convenient in everyday use.
Price and Value Proposition
For many shoppers considering the Honda Odyssey 2017 vs 2018, the price difference plays a significant role in the decision-making process. As expected with a generational change, there’s a notable price gap between these model years in the used market.
Ownership Costs and Considerations
The 2017 Odyssey, being the final year of its generation, typically offers good value on the pre-owned market. It provides most of the essential minivan functionality without the premium that comes with the newer design. For budget-conscious shoppers who prioritise basic family transportation over the latest features, the 2017 model presents an attractive proposition.
The 2018 Odyssey commands a higher price in the used market, reflecting its newer design, improved technology, and enhanced features. However, this price premium brings significant benefits in terms of safety technology, interior quality, and modern conveniences. For many families, the additional investment in a 2018 model may be justified by these improvements.
When evaluating the 2017 and 2018 Honda Odyssey models for long-term value, the 2018 model’s more modern platform may offer advantages in terms of resale value retention. Additionally, the 2018 model’s improved fuel economy, despite modest improvements, could contribute to lower running costs over extended ownership periods.
Conclusion
The comparison between the Honda Odyssey 2017 vs 2018 models illustrates the significant evolution that occurred with the generational change. The 2017 model, while competent and reliable, represents the culmination of the fourth-generation design that had become somewhat dated compared to competitors. The 2018 model, launching the fifth generation, brought Honda’s minivan firmly into the modern era with improved styling, technology, safety, and family-friendly features.
For used minivan shoppers, the choice between the 2017 and 2018 Honda Odyssey comes down to priorities and budget. Those seeking maximum value and basic functionality may find the 2017 model perfectly adequate for their needs. Families who prioritise the latest safety technology, interior comfort, and convenient features will likely find the additional investment in a 2018 model worthwhile.
Both model years uphold Honda’s reputation for reliability and strong resale value, making either a solid choice in the used minivan market. However, the 2018 redesign represents such a comprehensive improvement that, budget permitting, it stands as the more recommendable option for most family buyers.
FAQs
Which has better fuel economy, the 2017 or 2018 Honda Odyssey?
The 2018 Honda Odyssey has slightly better fuel economy ratings, achieving approximately 19 mpg city and 28 mpg highway, compared to the 2017’s 19 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. This improvement comes despite the 2018 model’s power increase, thanks to its more efficient 9-speed and 10-speed transmissions.
Did the 2018 Odyssey have any common problems I should be aware of?
As with many first-year models of a new generation, some 2018 Odysseys experienced early issues with the new 9-speed and 10-speed transmissions, including occasional rough shifting. Honda addressed many of these concerns through software updates. It’s advisable to check service records and ensure any relevant recalls or updates have been performed.
Is the 2017 Odyssey significantly less safe than the 2018 model?
Both the 2017 and 2018 Honda Odyssey achieved excellent crash test ratings. The key difference is that the 2018 model offers Honda Sensing advanced safety features as standard equipment on most trim levels, while these features were either optional or unavailable on the 2017 model. The core crash protection is strong in both model years.
Which Odyssey is better for families with young children?
The 2018 Odyssey offers several advantages for families with young children, including the Magic Slide second-row seats for easier access to children in car seats, CabinWatch to monitor kids without turning around, and CabinTalk to communicate with rear passengers. These features, combined with more standard safety technology, make the 2018 model particularly well-suited for families with young children.
Can I add Apple CarPlay to a 2017 Odyssey?
Unfortunately, the infotainment system in the 2017 Odyssey doesn’t support factory Apple CarPlay or Android Auto integration. Aftermarket solutions exist, but typically don’t offer the same seamless experience as the factory-integrated system in the 2018 model.