2002 Honda Odyssey: Road Test
Archived Review
2002 Honda Odyssey LX
2002 Honda Odyssey ▼
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- MSRP: $24,250 -$30,250
- Invoice: $21,822 -$27,214
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Our road test for the 2002 Honda Odyssey includes a full evaluation of the 2002 Honda Odyssey from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2002 Honda Odyssey, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2002 Honda Odyssey help you decide if a 2002 Honda Odyssey is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| LX | EX-L w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 3.8 |
Added power for '02 quite evident in good response from all speeds. Test LX did 0-60 mph in 7.7 sec, vs. 9 sec for 2001 model. New 5-speed automatic changes gears smoothly, but can be as slow to downshift as previous 4 speed, hampering midrange pickup.
FUEL ECONOMY
| LX | EX-L w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 3.9 |
Test EX-L averaged 18.8 mpg in primarily highway driving. Test LX averaged 16.3, including more city work and gas-eating performance tests. These are similar to test averages with 2001 models, and the '02 Odyssey uses regular-grade fuel; Honda had required premium for earlier versions.
RIDE QUALITY
| LX | EX-L w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.2 |
Despite ride-oriented '02 chassis retuning, Odyssey still feels a bit stiff on sharp bumps with just a driver aboard. Adding people or cargo improves absorbency, body control.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| LX | EX-L w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 4.3 |
Arguably the most-poised, pleasant-mannered minivan, aided by standard traction control. Steering slightly heavy at low speeds, easy and responsive otherwise. Simulated emergency stops swift, stable, but not super-short.
QUIETNESS
| LX | EX-L w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4.9 |
Smooth V6 rises only to muted growl at high revs. Wind noise low, but some tire rumble, body drumming on rough pavement.
CONTROLS
| LX | EX-L w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 6 |
Mostly a plus. Column shifter is now shorter, doesn't block audio controls in Drive, and has much more positive action. Worthwhile optional navigation system still takes time to learn, as do main audio/video controls on EX. Cabin decor not lavish even with leather, and interiors on Odysseys we've tested over the years were prone to rattles.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| LX | EX-L w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6 |
Spacious on wide, supportive seats. Handy center tray table folds for walk-through access to the rear. No-strain entry/exit.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| LX | EX-L w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 6.7 |
Plenty of room on 2nd-row buckets that can be moved together to form a bench seat. The 3rd-row bench accommodates medium-size adults, but is not easy to access. Leather easier to clean than cloth, so it's good to see this kid-friendlier upholstery finally available. However, cupholders for 2nd row are in flip-up tray between front seats--hard to reach and usable only with tray deployed. Sliding side doors provide large entryways, but EX's power doors are frustratingly slow.
CARGO ROOM
| LX | EX-L w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | 10 | 9.3 |
Better-than-average with 3rd-row seat up, generous with it down, cavernous with all seats stowed. Third row conveniently folds into floor so you don't have to leave it behind. Covered well ahead of the 2nd-row seats stows the standard space-saver spare tire, but won't hold a full-size tire, so a flat has to be transported in the passenger or cargo area.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| LX | EX-L w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | 10 | 5.5 |
Odyssey isn't perfect, but it is a solid Best Buy: roomy, refined, well-built, reasonably priced, and with more performance for '02 with no apparent loss in fuel economy. Demand continues strong, though, so you'll likely pay full sticker or more.
Total Score
| LX | EX-L w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 69 | 68 | 55.6 |
Total Score: 69
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