Hey guys! Let's dive deep into the 2016 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite, a minivan that's been a top pick for families for years. We're going to explore everything that makes this vehicle stand out, from its features and performance to its reliability and overall value. If you're considering buying a minivan, especially a used one, this review is definitely for you!

Overview of the 2016 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite

The 2016 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite represents the pinnacle of the Odyssey lineup for that model year. It’s designed to offer maximum comfort, convenience, and entertainment for families on the go. As the top-tier trim, the Touring Elite comes standard with a plethora of premium features not found on lower trims, making it a highly desirable option for those who want all the bells and whistles. The Odyssey, in general, has a reputation for reliability, practicality, and a smooth driving experience, and the Touring Elite enhances these qualities with added luxury and technology.

This model year of the Odyssey received generally positive reviews for its spacious interior, comfortable seating, and a host of family-friendly features. Critics often praised its smooth ride, responsive handling, and the powerful V6 engine that provides ample acceleration for everyday driving situations. The Touring Elite trim, in particular, was lauded for its advanced entertainment system and safety features, making it a standout choice in the minivan segment. However, like any vehicle, it’s essential to consider potential drawbacks, such as higher price point compared to other minivans and potential maintenance costs associated with its advanced features.

For families prioritizing space, comfort, and entertainment, the 2016 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite remains a compelling choice in the used minivan market. Its blend of practicality and luxury makes it well-suited for long road trips, daily commutes, and everything in between. Let's delve into the specifics to see if it aligns with your needs and preferences.

Key Features and Specifications

When you're checking out the 2016 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite, you've gotta know what makes it tick, right? Let's break down the important stuff under the hood and inside the cabin. First off, the engine. You're looking at a 3.5-liter V6 engine, which is the heart of this beast. It's not just any engine; it cranks out around 248 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque. What does that mean for you? It means you've got enough power to haul the whole family and all their stuff without feeling like you're driving a snail.

The transmission is a smooth-shifting 6-speed automatic, designed to give you the best balance of power and fuel efficiency. Speaking of fuel efficiency, the Odyssey Touring Elite gets an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. Not bad for a minivan, huh? That's something to consider when you're planning those long road trips.

Inside, you're treated to a world of comfort and convenience. Leather seats are standard, and the front seats are heated for those chilly mornings. The second-row seats are designed for maximum comfort, and the third-row Magic Seat folds flat into the floor, giving you tons of cargo space when you need it. The Touring Elite also comes with a rear entertainment system, complete with a 16.2-inch widescreen display, HDMI input, and wireless headphones. This is a lifesaver on long trips, keeping the kids entertained and quiet. Safety-wise, you've got all the essentials, including anti-lock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a suite of airbags. Plus, the Touring Elite comes with advanced features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, which help you stay aware of your surroundings. The 2016 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite is packed with features designed to make your life easier and more enjoyable.

Performance and Handling

The performance of the 2016 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite is definitely something to write home about. That 3.5-liter V6 engine isn't just for show; it provides ample power for almost any situation you'll encounter. Merging onto the highway? No problem. Passing slower traffic? Easy peasy. The Odyssey accelerates smoothly and confidently, making you feel in control even when the van is fully loaded with passengers and cargo.

The 6-speed automatic transmission complements the engine perfectly. It shifts gears seamlessly, providing a smooth and comfortable ride. You won't experience any jarring or hesitation, even when you're driving in stop-and-go traffic. The transmission is also designed to maximize fuel efficiency, helping you save money at the pump. Handling-wise, the Odyssey is surprisingly nimble for a minivan. The steering is responsive and precise, allowing you to navigate tight corners and parking lots with ease. The suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and road imperfections without feeling floaty or disconnected. While it's not a sports car, the Odyssey handles confidently and predictably, making it a joy to drive.

One of the standout features of the Odyssey is its quiet cabin. Honda has put a lot of effort into reducing noise, vibration, and harshness, resulting in a peaceful and relaxing driving experience. You can easily hold a conversation with passengers in the back, even at highway speeds. Overall, the 2016 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite offers a refined and enjoyable driving experience. It's powerful, comfortable, and surprisingly agile, making it a great choice for families who value both practicality and performance.

Interior and Comfort

Stepping inside the 2016 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite is like entering a mobile living room – a very well-designed one, at that! The interior is all about comfort and convenience, with features that cater specifically to families. Let's start with the seating. The leather seats are plush and supportive, making long drives a breeze. The front seats are heated, a welcome feature on cold mornings. The second-row seats are incredibly versatile, allowing you to configure the space to suit your needs. You can slide the seats forward or backward to create more legroom or cargo space, and the center seat can be removed entirely for easier access to the third row. Speaking of the third row, the Magic Seat folds flat into the floor with ease, creating a massive cargo area. This is perfect for hauling groceries, sports equipment, or luggage.

The Odyssey Touring Elite also boasts a premium entertainment system. The 16.2-inch widescreen display is perfect for watching movies on long road trips, and the wireless headphones ensure that everyone can enjoy their own entertainment without disturbing the driver. There are also plenty of cupholders and storage compartments throughout the cabin, so everyone can keep their drinks and snacks within reach. The tri-zone automatic climate control system keeps everyone comfortable, no matter where they're sitting. The driver and front passenger can set their own temperature preferences, and the rear passengers have their own controls as well. Overall, the 2016 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite offers a comfortable and spacious interior that's perfect for families on the go. It's a place where everyone can relax and enjoy the ride.

Technology and Entertainment

Alright, let's talk tech! The 2016 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite is loaded with gadgets and gizmos that make life on the road a whole lot easier and more enjoyable. The centerpiece of the entertainment system is the aforementioned 16.2-inch widescreen display in the rear. It's like having a personal movie theater on wheels! The system comes with a DVD player, HDMI input, and wireless headphones, so everyone can enjoy their own content without disturbing the peace. Up front, you'll find an 8-inch touchscreen display that controls the navigation system, audio system, and other vehicle functions. The system is easy to use and responsive, although it's not quite as modern as some of the systems found in newer vehicles. The Touring Elite also comes with a premium audio system that sounds great. Whether you're listening to music, podcasts, or audiobooks, you'll appreciate the clear and crisp sound quality. Other tech features include Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, and a rearview camera. The Bluetooth connectivity allows you to stream music and make hands-free phone calls, while the USB ports let you charge your devices on the go. The rearview camera makes it easier to back up and park, especially in tight spaces.

The 2016 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite also comes with HondaLink, which allows you to connect your smartphone to the vehicle and access a variety of apps and services. You can use HondaLink to get traffic updates, find nearby gas stations, and even schedule service appointments. Overall, the 2016 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite is a tech-savvy minivan that's sure to please even the most demanding gadget lovers. It's packed with features that make every journey more enjoyable and convenient.

Safety Features

When it comes to family vehicles, safety is paramount. The 2016 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite doesn't disappoint, offering a comprehensive suite of safety features designed to protect you and your loved ones. Standard safety equipment includes anti-lock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a full complement of airbags. These features work together to help you maintain control of the vehicle in emergency situations and minimize the risk of injury in the event of a collision. But the Touring Elite goes above and beyond with its advanced safety technologies. It comes standard with blind-spot monitoring, which alerts you when there's a vehicle in your blind spot. This is especially helpful when changing lanes on the highway.

The rear cross-traffic alert system warns you of approaching vehicles when you're backing out of a parking space. This can help prevent accidents in crowded parking lots. The Touring Elite also comes with a rearview camera, which provides a clear view of what's behind you when you're backing up. This makes it easier to park and helps you avoid hitting obstacles. The 2016 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite earned good safety ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). These ratings are a testament to the Odyssey's strong crashworthiness and its ability to protect occupants in the event of a collision. Overall, the 2016 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite is a safe and reliable minivan that you can trust to protect your family.

Potential Issues and Maintenance

Okay, so no car is perfect, right? Even the awesome 2016 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite has a couple of things you should be aware of. One common issue that some owners have reported is related to the automatic transmission. Some folks have experienced rough shifting or hesitation, especially at lower speeds. It's not super widespread, but it's worth keeping an eye on, especially if you're test driving one. Another thing to watch out for is the variable cylinder management (VCM) system. This system shuts down some of the engine's cylinders when you're cruising at a steady speed to save fuel. While it's a cool idea, some owners have reported that it can cause vibrations or uneven acceleration. Again, not everyone experiences this, but it's good to be aware of.

Maintenance-wise, the Odyssey is generally pretty reliable. Regular oil changes, tire rotations, and fluid checks are essential, just like with any car. One thing to keep in mind is that the Odyssey uses a timing belt, which needs to be replaced every 60,000 to 100,000 miles. This is a relatively expensive service, so factor that into your budget. Also, the rear entertainment system can be a bit finicky at times. Some owners have reported issues with the DVD player or the screen. If you're buying a used Odyssey, make sure to test the entertainment system thoroughly before you buy. Overall, the 2016 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite is a reliable minivan, but it's always a good idea to be aware of potential issues and keep up with regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly.

Is the 2016 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite Right for You?

So, is the 2016 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite the right minivan for you and your family? Well, let's recap what we've talked about. This minivan is packed with features, offering a comfortable and spacious interior, a powerful engine, and a host of tech and safety goodies. It's perfect for families who need a reliable and versatile vehicle for everything from daily commutes to long road trips. If you value comfort, convenience, and entertainment, the Touring Elite trim is definitely worth considering. The rear entertainment system is a lifesaver on long journeys, and the leather seats and premium audio system make every ride more enjoyable.

However, it's important to weigh the pros and cons. The Odyssey Touring Elite can be more expensive than other minivans, especially if you're buying new. And while it's generally reliable, there are a few potential issues to be aware of, such as the transmission and VCM system. It’s essential to consider your budget, your needs, and your priorities. If you're looking for the most affordable minivan on the market, the Odyssey Touring Elite might not be the best choice. But if you're willing to spend a bit more for a minivan that's packed with features and offers a premium driving experience, it's definitely worth a look. Ultimately, the best way to decide is to take one for a test drive and see how it feels. Get behind the wheel, load up the family, and see if the 2016 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite is the perfect fit for your needs.