2018 Honda Odyssey Elite (RL6, pre-facelift), rear 3/4 exterior. Photo: Kevauto, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The 2020 Honda Odyssey excels as a family minivan, blending practicality with premium features. Its 3.5L V6 engine delivers 280 hp, and the EPA rates it at 19/28 mpg. Standout features include Magic Slide seats, HondaVAC and the Honda Sensing safety suite (EX and above). It seats seven (LX) or eight, with up to 158 cu-ft of cargo space. NHTSA gives it a 5-star overall rating. If you are shopping used, this review also covers the 14 NHTSA recall campaigns and what changed in later years.
The 2020 Honda Odyssey is a flexible minivan. It is excellent for families and has a roomy interior with plenty of technology for its era.
Many families choose a 2020 Honda Odyssey because it is flexible and well equipped. The interior is roomy and comfortable, and upper trims add family tech such as CabinWatch and CabinTalk.
As you know, safety is paramount. The 2020 Honda Odyssey has many basic and optional safety features to keep you and your family safe. The Odyssey’s reliable engine and fuel-efficient performance make it a great choice for both short trips and longer ones. This car is great for people who want a durable minivan that is also good for families.
Getting to know the 2020 Honda Odyssey
For families, the 2020 Honda Odyssey is a great pick. This car stands out because it has comfort, safety, and new tech features.
In Brief
Honda Odyssey (RL6, 2018-2020 pre-facelift), front 3/4 exterior, silver. Photo: OWS Photography, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The 2020 Honda Odyssey has a clean design that combines style and practicality. The LX seats seven, and every other trim seats eight thanks to a second-row middle seat.
The 3.5-liter V6 engine in the 2020 Honda Odyssey makes 280 horsepower. This makes for a strong and smooth ride on a variety of surfaces, making it a great choice for families who care about performance and fuel economy.
The 2020 Odyssey gets 19 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway, which makes it a cheap option for driving in both cities and on the road. Because it uses very little gas, you can go long distances without stopping to refuel often.
What is important
Notes
Describe
Seats that slide magic
The third row seat is easy to get to.
VAC Honda
It is easy to clean up because it has a vacuum cleaner built in.
Entertainment System in the Back
A 10.2-inch screen on EX-L Navi/RES, Touring and Elite.
The Honda Sensing
Collision mitigation braking and more, on EX and above.
With the Magic Slide Seats, it is easy to switch places. It helps keep the car clean with HondaVAC. The Rear Entertainment System is great for trips that last a long time. When you drive, Honda Sensing makes it safer.
The design and style
The 2020 Honda Odyssey stands out because it looks clean and has nice tech features. This minivan is popular with families and car fans because it looks good and works well. Let us take a look at how this amazing car is built and looks.
Creating the Outside
Honda Odyssey Touring (RL6), dashboard and front cabin. Photo: deathpallie325, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The outside of the 2020 Honda Odyssey looks striking and well done. Its strong lines and streamlined shape make it look like it is moving even when it is not. The chrome finish on the front grille makes it stand out and gives the car an air of luxury. LED headlights come on the Touring and Elite and make the van look more current.
Some important outdoor features are:
Smooth body lines for a lively look
The chrome hood gives it a high-end look.
LED headlights on the Touring and Elite.
18-inch alloy wheels on most trims, 19-inch on the Elite.
Wide sliding side doors make it easy to get in and out.
Comfort Inside
Inside the 2020 Honda Odyssey, the goal is comfort. It is great for family trips because most trims seat eight people (the LX seats seven). High-quality materials are used to cover the seats, so they will be comfortable and last a long time.
The most important indoor features are:
Notes
Describe
Lots of room to sit
Seven seats on the LX, eight on all other trims.
High-quality furniture covers.
Offers comfort and long-term use.
Climate control with three zones
Tri-zone automatic climate on EX and above.
Seats that slide magic
The third row seat is easy to get to.
High-tech entertainment
It has a touchscreen monitor and can connect to a smartphone.
With all of these features, the 2020 Honda Odyssey makes the trip easy and fun for everyone.
Performance and Control
The speed and handling of the 2020 Honda Odyssey are both good for a minivan. The engine is strong, and the car is easy to drive. This car has a smooth and comfortable ride for all trips.
Details about the engine:
The engine in the 2020 Honda Odyssey is very strong. To sum up, here are the important details:
Details given
Specifics
Type of Engine
3.5L V6
Strength
280 hp
Force
262 lb-ft
The transmission
Automatic with 10 speeds.
2020 Honda Odyssey 0-60 and Horsepower
The 3.5-liter V6 makes 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. That is strong for a minivan of this size. So merging onto a busy highway with a full load of passengers is never a struggle.
Honda does not publish an official 0-60 time for the 2020 Odyssey. The 10-speed automatic, standard on every 2020 trim, helps here. It keeps the engine in its best power band during hard acceleration.
Towing is rated at 3,500 pounds when properly equipped. That is enough for a small boat or a light trailer. Most importantly, the engine uses regular unleaded fuel, so all that power does not come with a premium fuel bill.
Is the 2020 Honda Odyssey Available With AWD?
No. The 2020 Honda Odyssey is front-wheel drive only. Honda has never offered an all-wheel drive version of the Odyssey in the United States.
If you need all-wheel drive in a minivan, the Toyota Sienna is the alternative to look at. It offered AWD in this period. So that is the direct comparison to make if winter traction is a priority for you.
That said, the front-wheel drive Odyssey handles snow well on proper winter tires. Traction control and stability control are standard on every trim. In most climates a good set of tires matters more than the driven wheels.
Learning How to Drive
Reviewers generally describe the 2020 Honda Odyssey as one of the more composed minivans to drive, with responsive steering for its size.
Some important things that make driving more enjoyable are:
Quick driving
The ride is comfortable.
High-tech safety systems.
These traits make the Odyssey a strong all-rounder among minivans.
2018 Honda Odyssey (RL6, pre-facelift), rear 3/4 exterior. Photo: Kevauto, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Features for safety
The 2020 Honda Odyssey has many safety measures, and NHTSA rates it 5 stars overall (5 stars frontal and side, 4 stars rollover). The Odyssey has many safety features, both standard and optional, giving you peace of mind on every drive.
Everyday Safety
Every 2020 Honda Odyssey comes with important safety features. The following are some of these features:
Antilock Braking System (ABS): Helps you keep control when you need to stop quickly.
Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) spreads out the stopping power to make the vehicle more stable.
Keeps the car safe on rough roads with Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA).
Traction Control: Keeps wheels from spinning and makes them grip better.
Rearview Camera: This gives you a good view when you are backing up.
Better safety options
For 2020, Honda Sensing is standard on the EX and every trim above it, but not on the base LX. It includes:
The safety tools that make up the Honda Sensing Suite are: Cars with a Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) are less likely to crash head-on.
The Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM) lets you know when you leave your lane.
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) keeps your car a safe distance from the one in front of you.
Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS): This System helps you stay in your lane.
The Blind Spot Information System (EX and above) lets you know when a car is in your blind spot.
Cross Traffic Monitor: This lets you know when cars are coming up behind you when you are backing up.
With these features, the 2020 Honda Odyssey prioritizes safety, giving you peace of mind while you drive.
Entertainment and Technology
The 2020 Honda Odyssey is strong on family technology. Its unique tech features ensure that families enjoy every trip. Let us take a look at the entertainment system and ways to connect and stay entertained for everyone.
A method for information and fun
EX and higher trims get an 8-inch Display Audio touchscreen, while the base LX uses a 5-inch color screen. The 8-inch unit handles audio, phone and, on Navi trims, navigation.
The 8-inch system supports wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Kids can watch shows on the rear entertainment system (EX-L Navi/RES and above), which plays DVDs and Blu-rays on a 10.2-inch screen.
Notes
Specifics
Size of the screen:
8 inches (EX and above); 5 inches on LX
Adding Smartphone Support
Android Auto and Apple CarPlay (EX and above)
Enjoyment in the Back
Blu-ray and DVD
How to Connect
There are several ways to connect to the Odyssey. USB ports are spread through the cabin, and the Touring and Elite add a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot.
The Honda CabinControl app is another useful tool that lets you change the climate and entertainment settings in the back. Passengers can change settings from their phones. Bluetooth allows you to make calls and stream songs hands-free.
USB Ports
Hotspot for WiFi
App for Honda Cabin Control
Bluetooth
These features keep everyone connected. It is great for both long trips and daily travel.
Room and Storage
The 2020 Honda Odyssey has a lot of space and capability. Family vacations and business trips both work well there. This car is both stylish and useful, so every trip is a pleasure. Look at the seating arrangements and the amount of space for goods.
Setting up the seats
Up to eight people can fit in the Honda Odyssey (seven in the LX). The drivers seat is comfortable and roomy. There are Magic Slide chairs in the second row. You can move these seats forward and backward and side to side. This makes it easy to get to the third row and lets you order the seats in different ways. There are 60/40 splits in the third row seat. It can be folded flat into the floor to make more room when needed.
Capacity for Cargo
The Odyssey is great at carrying cargo. Honda lists 32.8 to 38.6 cubic feet behind the third row, depending on trim. Fold the third row and the space grows to 88.8 to 92.0 cubic feet. With the second-row seats removed, the LX offers 144.9 to 158.0 cubic feet behind the first row. This makes it easy to bring big things or luggage on long trips.
Area for Cargo
Cubic Feet
Behind the third row
32.8 to 38.6
Behind the second row
88.8 to 92.0
Behind the first row (LX)
144.9 to 158.0
The 2020 Honda Odyssey can be used in many ways. It is good for any trip because it is big and has lots of storage space.
How Well Fuel Works
The 2020 Honda Odyssey gets great gas mileage, which makes it a great choice for families who are always on the go. Let us think more about how fuel-efficient it is.
MPG Scores
The EPA rates every 2020 Odyssey trim at 19 mpg city, 28 mpg highway and 22 mpg combined. That is typical for a V6 minivan. Here’s a simple breakdown:
Getting around
MPG
City
19
Road
28
Options that are good for the environment
The Odyssey has many features that are good for the earth. These features help to lower the amount of fuel used.
The Eco Assist System helps you drive more smoothly.
Variable Cylinder Management (VCM): This feature makes the reliable engine and fuel run better and uses less gas.
The idling-stop System turns off the engine when the car is not moving.
The 2020 Honda Odyssey is good for the environment and saves gas thanks to these benefits.
Prices and Trims
The 2020 Honda Odyssey was offered in six trim levels. Each trim level has different features and price bands. Let us look at the trims available and their costs.
Ready to go Cuts
The 2020 Honda Odyssey came in LX, EX, EX-L, EX-L Navi/RES, Touring and Elite trims.
EX: It adds the Honda Sensing safety suite, which the base LX lacks.
Leather seats and a power sunroof come with the EX-L.
The Touring adds LED headlights, CabinWatch, CabinTalk, rear entertainment and a Wi-Fi hotspot.
Odyssey Elite: ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel and 550-watt, 11-speaker audio.
2020 Honda Odyssey Elite: What the Top Trim Adds
The 2020 Honda Odyssey Elite sits at the top of the range. It carried a starting MSRP of $47,420 before destination. So it is a big step up from the $30,790 LX, but it bundles almost every feature Honda offered.
The Elite adds ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel and a wireless phone charger. It also brings a 550-watt premium audio system with 11 speakers. On top of that you get acoustic front glass for a quieter cabin (the Odyssey has a conventional power moonroof, not a panoramic roof).
Family tech is where the Elite really separates itself. CabinWatch lets you see the rear seats on the front screen, and CabinTalk pipes your voice through the rear speakers or headphones. The rear entertainment system with a Blu-ray player is standard here too.
For 2020, every Odyssey trim uses the 10-speed automatic. The EPA rates it at 19 mpg city, 28 mpg highway and 22 mpg combined. In short, choose the Elite if you want the quietest, best-equipped Odyssey and the ventilated seats matter to you.
Compare Prices
Here are the original 2020 MSRPs, before the $1,120 destination charge. Used prices today are far lower and depend on mileage and condition:
Cut down
Price to Start:
LX
$30,790
EX
$34,790
EX-L
$38,060
EX-L Navi/RES
$40,160
Touring
$45,060
Odyssey Elite
$47,420
The EX is the value pick because it is the cheapest trim with Honda Sensing. The Elite has the most equipment but cost the most new.
Review by Users
Owners and professional reviewers have had years to judge the 2020 Odyssey. Here is a summary of what published reviews tend to say.
Opinions of experts
Experts also looked at the 2020 Honda Odyssey. They like how well its technologies work and how well its engine runs.
The Pro
Thoughts
Ride
Reviewers often praise its smooth ride.
Technology
Family tech like CabinWatch gets frequent mention.
Fuel economy
EPA-rated 22 mpg combined.
Most experts think that the Honda Odyssey is a good car. They like how long it lasts and how little care it needs.
Buying a Used 2020 Honda Odyssey? What to Check
A 2020 Odyssey is now a used purchase, so the recall record and the later updates matter as much as the original spec sheet.
NHTSA recalls for the 2020 Odyssey
NHTSA lists 14 recall campaigns that include the 2020 Odyssey (one covers only Braun-converted wheelchair vans). The main ones are:
Rearview camera problems: water entering the camera (20V438, 26V423), instrument panel software (20V439) and a faulty coaxial connector (23V431).
Sliding door outer handle cables that can freeze in cold weather (20V437).
Third-row accessory power outlet wiring that can be pinched (20V066).
Front seat belt buckles (23V158) and the low-pressure fuel pump (23V858).
Front passenger occupant classification sensor (24V064, 26V332) and side and side curtain airbag software that can cause unexpected deployment (26V227, 2018-2022 Odyssey).
Several of these campaigns were filed in 2026, so even a van with service records may have open recalls. Run the VIN at NHTSA before buying.
What changed after 2020
The 2021 refresh made Honda Sensing standard on every trim, added a Rear Seat Reminder and updated the styling. The 2025 refresh brought new front and rear styling and a 9-inch touchscreen, and the rear entertainment screen grew to 12.8 inches. The 280-hp V6 and 10-speed automatic carried over throughout.
The Odyssey is still sold. Honda has released 2027 pricing: EX-L, Sport, Touring and Elite run from $43,195 to $52,095 before a $1,495 destination charge, with the same 19/28/22 mpg rating (the 2026 range was $42,795 to $51,695). See our 2026 Honda Odyssey review for the current van.
Questions People Ask Often
What does the Honda Odyssey often go wrong?
Some older Odyssey generations had well-known transmission complaints. For a 2020 model, check NHTSA for open recalls and service bulletins.
Are the 2020 Honda Odysseys being called back for any reason?
Yes. NHTSA lists 14 recall campaigns for the 2020 Odyssey, covering rearview cameras, sliding door handle cables, third-row outlet wiring, seat belt buckles, the fuel pump and airbag systems. Several were filed in 2026, so check your VIN.
How many miles can a Honda Odyssey go?
Many well-maintained Odysseys pass 200,000 miles, though there is no guaranteed lifespan. However, if you take care of it and service it regularly, it can last longer.
In what years does the Honda Odyssey do its best?
There is no official ‘best year’. Check reliability data, recall history and service records for the exact van you are considering.
Why Should You Buy A 2020 Honda Odyssey?
The 2020 Honda Odyssey is a flexible minivan that stands out with its roomy interior and up-to-date safety features.
How many seats does the 2020 Honda Odyssey have?
The LX seats seven. The EX, EX-L, Touring and Elite seat eight thanks to a second-row middle seat.
What kind of engine does the 2020 Honda Odyssey have?
The 3.5-liter V6 engine inside it makes 280 horsepower.
Does the 2020 Honda Odyssey have Honda Sensing?
Only the EX and higher trims. The base LX does not have Honda Sensing for 2020; Honda made it standard on every trim starting with the 2021 refresh.
What is the towing capacity of the 2020 Honda Odyssey?
Honda rates the 2020 Odyssey to tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped.
Is the Honda Odyssey still sold new?
Yes. The 2027 Odyssey starts at $43,195 before the $1,495 destination charge, according to Honda’s August 2026 pricing release.
The bottom line
The 2020 Honda Odyssey is known for being comfortable, roomy and well equipped. It is still a strong used choice for families. Pick an EX or higher for Honda Sensing, and check the recall status by VIN before you buy.
Experience the perfect mix of style and usefulness.
Morgan Reyes is the founder and editor-in-chief of NextCarReview, which Morgan launched in August 2024. A 2022 graduate of Columbia University, Morgan is based in New York and writes and edits the site’s reviews, comparisons and buying guides. Morgan does not road-test vehicles. Every article is built from published primary data: EPA FuelEconomy.gov ratings, NHTSA crash ratings, recalls and owner complaints, IIHS results, and manufacturer specifications and pricing, with each figure cited and checked before publication. Contact: admin@nextcarreview.com
