The Honda Odyssey is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine with Honda’s i-VTEC variable-valve timing, typically paired with a multi‑speed automatic transmission. In the newest models, this setup delivers around 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque.
Across its generations, the engine has remained part of Honda’s 3.5-liter V6 family, but the transmission and performance figures have evolved. Modern Odysseys (especially from the late 2010s onward) pair the 3.5L V6 with a 10-speed automatic, while earlier versions used different automatic configurations. The engine is designed for front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive not offered on most US models.
Current engine configuration
Details of the engine setup and performance characteristics for today’s Odyssey:
- Engine: 3.5-liter V6 with i-VTEC variable-valve timing
- Power output: approximately 280 horsepower
- Torque: around 262 lb-ft
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive (no AWD on standard US models)
- Fuel economy: EPA-estimated about 19 mpg city / 28 mpg highway / 22 mpg combined (2WD)
These specifications define the powerplant and drivetrain of current-generation Odysseys, reflecting the configuration most buyers encounter today.
Historical context and evolution
Since its introduction, the Honda Odyssey has used a V6 powertrain from Honda’s J-series family. While the core engine has remained a 3.5-liter V6, the mated automatic transmission has changed over time, progressing from earlier four-, five-, or six-speed automatics to the modern 10-speed automatic in recent years. This evolution has improved acceleration, efficiency, and refinement across the model years.
Earlier generations (summary)
Older Odysseys relied on the same basic 3.5-liter V6 concept, but with varying transmission gear counts and tuning. The general trend across generations was toward smoother power delivery and better fuel economy through more advanced automatic transmissions and refined engine control, culminating in the current 10-speed setup.
Recent generations (summary)
From the late 2010s onward, Honda standardized the current 3.5-liter V6 with a 10-speed automatic in most markets. This pairing delivers strong mid-range torque for passing and highway merging, while maintaining competitive fuel economy for a family minivan.
What it means for buyers
For buyers evaluating a Honda Odyssey, the key takeaway is that the vehicle’s heart is a robust 3.5L V6 with i-VTEC, delivering ample power for daily driving and highway trips. The presence of a 10-speed automatic in most models helps optimize performance and efficiency, though exact fuel economy can vary by trim, load, and driving conditions.
Summary
In short, the modern Honda Odyssey runs on a 3.5-liter V6 with i-VTEC, matched to a 10-speed automatic transmission, producing about 280 hp. This configuration has become the standard across current-generation Odysseys, with historical variations mainly across transmissions rather than a completely different engine family.