Honda Odyssey 2023 Sport: Review, Features & Performance

by Jhon Lennon 57 views

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the Honda Odyssey 2023 Sport, a minivan that's trying to inject a bit of fun into the family hauler segment. If you're in the market for a minivan, you've probably noticed the Odyssey is a perennial favorite, and the Sport trim aims to add some visual flair to its already impressive functionality. So, let’s get started and see what makes this minivan special!

What’s New with the 2023 Honda Odyssey Sport?

The 2023 Honda Odyssey Sport isn't a complete redesign, but rather a specific trim level that builds upon the existing Odyssey platform. The main updates are cosmetic, designed to give it a more aggressive and sporty appearance. Think blacked-out exterior trim, unique interior accents, and a few other touches to set it apart from the more vanilla trims. It's all about standing out in the school drop-off lane, right?

Exterior Styling: Black is the New Chrome

Let's be honest, minivans aren't usually the first thing that comes to mind when you think of stylish vehicles. But Honda has tried to change that with the Odyssey Sport. The most noticeable difference is the abundance of black trim. The grille, window surrounds, rear taillight trim, and even the alloy wheels are all finished in gloss black. This creates a striking contrast, especially on lighter-colored models. The blackout aesthetic definitely gives it a more modern and edgy look. For those who are tired of the standard chrome accents found on most minivans, the Sport offers a refreshing alternative. It's not going to turn heads like a sports car, but it certainly makes a statement.

The Details Matter

Beyond the black trim, the Odyssey Sport also includes unique badging and subtle aerodynamic tweaks. While these changes aren't drastic, they contribute to the overall sporty vibe. The rear spoiler, for instance, is slightly more pronounced than on other trims. And the exclusive alloy wheel design adds to the vehicle's distinctive appearance. These small details show that Honda put some thought into creating a trim level that's more than just a cosmetic package.

Interior Design and Comfort: Practicality Meets Style

Moving inside, the Honda Odyssey 2023 Sport maintains the practicality and spaciousness that the Odyssey is known for. However, it adds some unique touches to give it a sportier feel. The seats are upholstered in black leather with red stitching, which creates a nice contrast and adds a touch of elegance. The red stitching is also found on the steering wheel and door panels, tying the interior together nicely. It's a subtle but effective way to elevate the cabin's ambiance.

Space and Versatility

Of course, the main selling point of any minivan is its space and versatility, and the Odyssey Sport doesn't disappoint. It offers seating for up to eight passengers, and the second-row seats can be easily removed for maximum cargo space. The third-row seats also fold flat into the floor, creating a cavernous storage area. Whether you're hauling kids, cargo, or a combination of both, the Odyssey Sport has you covered. The magic slide second-row seats are still a game-changer, allowing for easy access to the third row.

Technology and Features

The Odyssey Sport comes standard with a range of technology features, including an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. It also includes Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features help to keep you and your family safe on the road. The infotainment system is responsive and easy to use, and the safety features provide added peace of mind.

Performance and Handling: How Does It Drive?

Under the hood, the Honda Odyssey 2023 Sport is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. While the Sport trim doesn't add any performance enhancements, the Odyssey is already a surprisingly capable vehicle. The V6 engine provides plenty of power for acceleration and passing, and the 10-speed transmission shifts smoothly and efficiently. It's not going to win any races, but it's more than adequate for everyday driving.

Ride and Handling

The Odyssey Sport offers a comfortable and composed ride. The suspension soaks up bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a smooth and stable driving experience. The steering is precise and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. While it's still a minivan, the Odyssey handles surprisingly well. It doesn't feel as bulky or cumbersome as some of its competitors. The ride quality is definitely a strong point, making it a great choice for long road trips.

Fuel Economy

The Honda Odyssey Sport gets an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. These numbers are respectable for a minivan, and they're on par with its competitors. Of course, your actual fuel economy may vary depending on your driving habits and conditions. But overall, the Odyssey is a reasonably fuel-efficient choice.

Honda Odyssey 2023 Sport: Pros and Cons

To summarize, let's break down the pros and cons of the 2023 Honda Odyssey Sport:

Pros:

  • Sporty Styling: The blacked-out exterior trim and unique interior accents give it a more aggressive and modern look.
  • Spacious and Versatile: It offers plenty of room for passengers and cargo, making it ideal for families.
  • Comfortable Ride: The suspension provides a smooth and composed ride, even on rough roads.
  • Advanced Safety Features: Honda Sensing provides added peace of mind.

Cons:

  • No Performance Upgrades: The Sport trim is purely cosmetic; it doesn't add any horsepower or improve handling.
  • Infotainment System: While functional, the infotainment system could use a more modern interface.
  • Price: The Sport trim is more expensive than the base model.

Final Verdict: Is the Odyssey Sport Right for You?

The Honda Odyssey 2023 Sport is a stylish and practical minivan that offers a lot of value for families. If you're looking for a minivan that stands out from the crowd, the Sport trim is definitely worth considering. However, if you're primarily concerned with performance, you might be disappointed. The Sport trim is all about aesthetics, not performance enhancements. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and priorities. If you value style and comfort, the Odyssey Sport is a great choice. But if you're looking for a more performance-oriented minivan, you might want to consider other options.

So, there you have it – a comprehensive look at the Honda Odyssey 2023 Sport. Hopefully, this review has helped you make a more informed decision. Happy car shopping, folks!