Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2023 Honda Odyssey Sport. If you're in the market for a minivan that blends practicality with a touch of sporty flair, this might be the one for you. We'll break down everything from its performance and interior to its tech features and overall value. So, buckle up and let's get started!

What's New with the 2023 Honda Odyssey Sport?

The 2023 Honda Odyssey Sport isn't a complete redesign, but it does bring some exciting changes to the table. The most notable is, of course, the "Sport" trim itself. This new addition gives the Odyssey a more aggressive look with gloss-black exterior accents, unique wheels, and black leather interior with red stitching. But it's not just about aesthetics; Honda has also tweaked some of the standard features across the Odyssey lineup for 2023, enhancing its appeal in a competitive minivan segment. Let's be real, minivans aren't usually the coolest cars on the road, but Honda is trying to change that perception with the Sport trim. Are they successful? Keep reading to find out!

Exterior Design and Sporty Aesthetics

The first thing you'll notice about the Odyssey Sport is its distinctive exterior. The gloss-black grille, wheels, and trim pieces give it a more modern and aggressive stance compared to the other trims. It's a far cry from the soccer-mom image that minivans sometimes get stuck with. The blacked-out look extends to the headlight housings and taillight trim, creating a cohesive and stylish appearance. Even the roof rails are finished in black, adding to the overall sporty vibe. If you're someone who wants a minivan that doesn't scream "minivan," the Sport trim is definitely worth considering. It's subtle enough to not be ostentatious, but noticeable enough to turn heads. The design tweaks make a significant difference in making the Odyssey look more contemporary and less utilitarian. Honda has clearly put some thought into making this minivan stand out from the crowd, and it pays off.

Interior Comfort and Features

Stepping inside the 2023 Honda Odyssey Sport, you'll find a spacious and well-appointed cabin. The black leather seats with red stitching add a touch of sportiness that complements the exterior. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making long road trips a breeze. The second-row Magic Slide seats are a standout feature, allowing for easy access to the third row. This is especially useful when you have kids in car seats. The interior is also packed with family-friendly features, such as a rear entertainment system, multiple USB ports, and a built-in vacuum cleaner (on higher trims). While the Sport trim doesn't get all the bells and whistles of the Elite trim, it still offers a great balance of comfort and convenience. The materials used throughout the cabin feel high-quality, and the overall fit and finish is excellent. Honda has done a great job of creating a space that is both functional and comfortable for the whole family.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the 2023 Honda Odyssey Sport is powered by a proven 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission. The Odyssey delivers ample power for everyday driving, whether you're hauling kids to school or embarking on a cross-country road trip. The handling is surprisingly good for a minivan, with responsive steering and minimal body roll. The ride is comfortable and composed, even on rough roads. While it's not a sports car, the Odyssey Sport offers a confident and enjoyable driving experience. The V6 engine provides plenty of pep for merging onto the highway or passing other cars. The 10-speed transmission shifts seamlessly, contributing to the overall smoothness of the ride. Honda has engineered the Odyssey to be both practical and fun to drive, which is a rare combination in the minivan segment.

Engine and Transmission

The 3.5-liter V6 engine in the 2023 Honda Odyssey Sport is a workhorse. It provides plenty of power for all your needs, and it's surprisingly fuel-efficient for a vehicle of this size. The 10-speed automatic transmission is a smooth operator, delivering quick and precise shifts. Together, they provide a refined and responsive driving experience. The engine is also relatively quiet, which is a plus on long drives. Honda has a reputation for building reliable engines, and the V6 in the Odyssey is no exception. It's a proven design that has been around for years, so you can expect it to last for a long time with proper maintenance. The combination of power, smoothness, and reliability makes this powertrain a standout in the minivan segment.

Ride Quality and Handling

Let's be honest, nobody expects a minivan to handle like a sports car. But the 2023 Honda Odyssey Sport is surprisingly nimble for its size. The steering is responsive, and the suspension does a good job of soaking up bumps and potholes. The ride is comfortable and composed, even on rough roads. Body roll is well-controlled, which is impressive for a vehicle with a high center of gravity. Overall, the Odyssey offers a pleasant and confident driving experience. It's easy to maneuver in tight spaces, and it feels stable and planted on the highway. Honda has clearly put some effort into making the Odyssey handle well, and it shows. While it may not be the most exciting vehicle to drive, it's certainly one of the most comfortable and practical.

Technology and Safety Features

The 2023 Honda Odyssey Sport comes standard with a wide range of technology and safety features. These include an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a suite of advanced safety features called Honda Sensing. Honda Sensing includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. These features help to keep you and your family safe on the road. The infotainment system is easy to use, and the smartphone integration is seamless. The safety features are also top-notch, providing an extra layer of protection. Honda has made safety a priority with the Odyssey, and it shows in the long list of standard features.

Infotainment System and Connectivity

The 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system in the 2023 Honda Odyssey Sport is user-friendly and responsive. It comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to easily connect your smartphone. The system also includes Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The graphics are clear and easy to read, and the menus are intuitive. The system also supports over-the-air updates, so you can always have the latest software. While it's not the most advanced infotainment system on the market, it's certainly one of the most user-friendly. Honda has done a good job of keeping it simple and easy to navigate, which is important for busy families. The smartphone integration is seamless, and the Bluetooth connectivity is reliable. Overall, the infotainment system is a solid performer.

Honda Sensing Safety Suite

Safety is a top priority for families, and the 2023 Honda Odyssey Sport delivers with its standard Honda Sensing safety suite. This suite includes a wide range of advanced safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. These features work together to help prevent accidents and keep you and your family safe on the road. Adaptive cruise control maintains a set distance from the vehicle in front of you, while lane departure warning alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane. Lane keeping assist gently steers the vehicle back into the lane, and automatic emergency braking can automatically apply the brakes if it detects an imminent collision. Honda Sensing is a comprehensive safety suite that provides an extra layer of protection for you and your loved ones.

Is the 2023 Honda Odyssey Sport Worth It?

So, the big question: Is the 2023 Honda Odyssey Sport worth it? The answer depends on your needs and preferences. If you're looking for a minivan that offers a blend of practicality, style, and sporty flair, the Sport trim is definitely worth considering. It offers a unique look that sets it apart from other minivans, and it comes with a host of standard features that make it a great value. However, if you need all the bells and whistles, you might want to consider the Elite trim. Ultimately, the best way to decide is to take a test drive and see for yourself. The Odyssey Sport is a well-rounded minivan that offers something for everyone. It's practical, comfortable, and stylish, making it a great choice for families. Plus, the sporty aesthetics give it a unique appeal that you won't find in other minivans. If you're in the market for a minivan, be sure to check out the 2023 Honda Odyssey Sport.

Pros and Cons

To summarize, here's a quick rundown of the pros and cons of the 2023 Honda Odyssey Sport:

Pros:

• Sporty and stylish exterior design
• Spacious and comfortable interior
• Powerful and efficient V6 engine
• Smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission
• User-friendly infotainment system
• Comprehensive Honda Sensing safety suite

Cons:

• Not as luxurious as the Elite trim
• Some may find the sporty styling to be too aggressive

Final Verdict

Overall, the 2023 Honda Odyssey Sport is a great minivan that offers a compelling blend of practicality, style, and performance. It's a great choice for families who want a minivan that doesn't look like every other minivan on the road. The Sport trim adds a touch of flair to the Odyssey, making it stand out from the crowd. If you're in the market for a minivan, be sure to give the Odyssey Sport a look. You might be surprised at how much you like it! Thanks for reading, and happy driving!