The automotive industry is extremely competitive. Japanese automakers like Honda and Toyota battle it out annually to see which company can produce the better minivan. Competition is usually stiff between models like the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna. This year one Japanese minivan outclassed the other by far.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey brings the value

Originally introduced in 1994, Honda’s first minivan has competed with other minivans for five generations. Its biggest change was in 1999 when the exterior was redesigned to resemble larger, conventional minivans. Since then, the Honda Odyssey has evolved along with the rest of the Honda lineup, but it has maintained a familiar shape. While the exterior is still recognizable, the Odyssey’s specs and features have gotten much better over time.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey comes standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine. It makes 280 horsepower and has great handling for its size. The minivan gets 28 miles per gallon on the highway and 19 mpg in the city.

Honda Odyssey features

The second row of seats is completely adjustable and can either be joined or separated. It’s perfect for car seats. It also has a feature called CabinWatch available. This allows the driver to monitor rear passengers.

CabinTalk is optional as well. This feature allows drivers to clearly communicate with passengers in each row of seats through speakers or headphones. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are also options for the Japanese automaker’s newest minivan.

A satellite navigation system can provide offline maps, and there is even an app passengers can download to adjust the climate and more. Intelligent Traction Management is included to adjust to tricky terrain. Finally, HondaLink is available with a subscription for drivers to control key features using their smartphones.

Honda’s minivan is the best of the best

What really makes the 2022 Honda Odyssey a top contender for minivan of the year? It has lots of cabin space, uses great interior materials, and has a great engine. The new Odyssey is the perfect all-around minivan. It’s fast enough to get drivers where they need to go and comfy enough for all ages.

The many trims offer more entertainment features for the kids. Things aren’t too shabby from the driver’s seat either, with options like heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel. There’s also a feature that reminds drivers to double-check if anything was left in the cabin.

Why the Honda Odyssey is a family favorite

Driving kids or multiple passengers around can get pretty hectic. Everyone has their own wants, needs, and things that make them comfortable. The 2022 Honda Odyssey accounts for every row of seats in its cabin and has the tech to satisfy everyone inside.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey beat the 2021 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid for the top spot because it was slightly faster. Its cabin is also much more luxurious in comparison. The 2021 Toyota Sienna fell short due to its lack of power and cabin space. It’s easy to see how the 2022 Odyssey can become a family favorite. Can Honda hold on to the throne when next year’s minivans are available?