2018 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite: Review, Features & More
Hey guys! Let's take a closer look at the 2018 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite. If you're in the market for a minivan that's packed with features, offers a smooth ride, and has plenty of space for the whole family, then this might just be the perfect choice for you. This article will cover everything from its key features and performance to its interior comforts and technology, giving you a comprehensive overview to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your needs. We will also touch on some common questions and concerns that potential buyers often have. So, buckle up and let’s get started!
Key Features of the 2018 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite
The 2018 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite is loaded with features that set it apart from other minivans on the market. One of the standout features is the HondaVAC, an integrated vacuum cleaner that makes it easy to clean up messes on the go. Trust me, if you have kids, this is a lifesaver! The Odyssey Touring Elite also comes with an advanced rear entertainment system, complete with a 10.2-inch high-resolution screen, Blu-ray player, and wireless headphones. This keeps the little ones entertained on long road trips, making the journey much more peaceful for everyone. Another notable feature is the CabinWatch system, which uses a camera to let you keep an eye on passengers in the back, and CabinTalk, which allows you to speak to them through the rear speakers or headphones. These features are incredibly useful for managing a busy family on the road. In terms of safety, the Touring Elite includes Honda Sensing, a suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies like collision mitigation braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. These features provide an extra layer of protection and peace of mind. Additionally, the Odyssey Touring Elite boasts a hands-free power tailgate, making it easier to load and unload cargo, especially when your hands are full. The exterior design also deserves a mention, with its sleek lines, LED headlights, and stylish alloy wheels, giving it a modern and sophisticated look. All these features combine to make the 2018 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite a top contender in the minivan segment.
Performance and Handling
When it comes to performance, the 2018 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite doesn't disappoint. It's powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides plenty of power for everyday driving, whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the highway. The Odyssey also features a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission, which contributes to its refined driving experience. The transmission is responsive and helps to optimize 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, which is quite impressive for a minivan. The handling of the Odyssey is also noteworthy. It feels stable and composed on the road, with responsive steering and minimal body roll. This makes it surprisingly fun to drive, despite its size. The suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with ease. Whether you're running errands around town or embarking on a long road trip, the Odyssey delivers a smooth and enjoyable driving experience. The vehicle's acceleration is also impressive, allowing you to merge onto the highway or pass other vehicles with confidence. Overall, the performance and handling of the 2018 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite make it a standout choice in its class.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Stepping inside the 2018 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite, you'll immediately notice the spacious and well-designed interior. The cabin is thoughtfully laid out, with high-quality materials and comfortable seating for up to eight passengers. The front seats are supportive and offer plenty of adjustments, making it easy to find a comfortable driving position. The second-row seats are also very comfortable, and they can be easily configured to suit your needs. Honda's Magic Slide second-row seats allow you to move the outboard seats laterally, making it easier to access the third row or create more space between passengers. The third-row seats are surprisingly spacious, even for adults, and they can be folded down to create a large cargo area. In terms of technology, the Odyssey Touring Elite is packed with features. It comes with an 8-inch touchscreen display, which is easy to use and provides access to a variety of functions, including navigation, audio, and smartphone integration. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both supported, allowing you to seamlessly connect your smartphone to the vehicle. The Odyssey also features a premium audio system, which delivers clear and crisp sound throughout the cabin. Other notable technology features include a wireless phone charger, multiple USB ports, and a rear entertainment system with a Blu-ray player. The CabinWatch and CabinTalk systems are also great additions, making it easier to keep an eye on and communicate with passengers in the back. Overall, the interior comfort and technology of the 2018 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite make it a great choice for families.
Safety Features
Safety is a top priority for families, and the 2018 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features. One of the key safety features is Honda Sensing, which includes collision mitigation braking, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. These systems work together to help prevent accidents and make driving safer. Collision mitigation braking can automatically apply the brakes if it detects an imminent collision, while lane departure warning alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane. Lane keeping assist can gently steer the vehicle back into the lane if you start to drift, and adaptive cruise control maintains a set distance from the vehicle in front of you. In addition to Honda Sensing, the Odyssey Touring Elite also comes with blind-spot monitoring, which alerts you if there is a vehicle in your blind spot. Rear cross-traffic alert is also included, which warns you of approaching vehicles when you're backing up. Other standard safety features include anti-lock brakes, stability control, and a full complement of airbags. The Odyssey has also received excellent safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), further demonstrating its commitment to safety. With its comprehensive suite of safety features, the 2018 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite provides peace of mind for families on the road.
Common Questions About the 2018 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite
Many potential buyers have questions about the 2018 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite, so let's address some of the most common ones. One frequent question is about the reliability of the Odyssey. Overall, the Odyssey has a good reputation for reliability, but like any vehicle, it can have its issues. Some common problems reported by owners include issues with the infotainment system, sliding door problems, and occasional transmission issues. However, these problems are not widespread, and many owners have had positive experiences with their Odysseys. Another common question is about the fuel economy of the Odyssey. As mentioned earlier, the Odyssey gets an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. However, your actual fuel economy may vary depending on your driving habits and conditions. Another question is about the cost of maintenance for the Odyssey. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes and tire rotations, is relatively affordable. However, more extensive repairs can be costly, especially if they involve the transmission or other major components. It's always a good idea to factor in the cost of maintenance when considering a vehicle. Some buyers also wonder about the differences between the Touring Elite and other Odyssey trims. The Touring Elite is the top-of-the-line trim and includes all the available features, such as the HondaVAC, rear entertainment system, and CabinWatch system. Other trims may not have these features, or they may be optional. Finally, some buyers ask about the resale value of the Odyssey. Minivans generally hold their value well, and the Odyssey is no exception. However, the resale value can vary depending on the condition of the vehicle, mileage, and other factors. By addressing these common questions, potential buyers can make a more informed decision about whether the 2018 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite is the right choice for them.
In conclusion, the 2018 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite is a feature-rich, comfortable, and safe minivan that's perfect for families. With its powerful engine, smooth transmission, spacious interior, and advanced technology, it offers a great driving experience. While it may have some potential reliability issues, overall, it's a solid choice in its class. If you're in the market for a minivan, be sure to consider the 2018 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite.
