2003 Honda Odyssey: Road Test
Archived Review
2003 Honda Odyssey LX
2003 Honda Odyssey ▼
Select a Trim ▼
- MSRP: $24,400 -$30,400
- Invoice: $21,957 -$27,348
Features & Specifications
Compare Vehicle
Related to Honda Odyssey
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our road test for the 2003 Honda Odyssey includes a full evaluation of the 2003 Honda Odyssey from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2003 Honda Odyssey, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2003 Honda Odyssey help you decide if a 2003 Honda Odyssey is right for you.
Advertisement
ACCELERATION
| LX | EX-L w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 4.1 |
One of the liveliest minivans in feel and fact. Test LX ran 0-60 mph in 7.7 sec, quickest minivan we've tested. Still, highway passing response delays a beat or two while otherwise silky smooth automatic transmission kicks down for more power. And this 5-speed transmission lacks a separate "D4" position, which would help keep power on tap in hilly driving or in thick traffic.
FUEL ECONOMY
| LX | EX-L w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 |
Test EX-L models averaged 18.8-21.6 mpg in primarily highway driving. Test LX returned 16.3 with more city work and gas-eating performance tests. Honda recommends regular-grade fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| LX | EX-L w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.5 |
A bit stiff on sharp bumps with just a driver aboard. Adding people or cargo improves absorbency and 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 | 5 |
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 | 6.1 |
Long column transmission lever requires slightly odd arm motion, but doesn't block dashboard controls. EX-L's available navigation system is worthwhile, but takes time to learn--as do DVD video-entertainment system controls. We wish that Honda would offer these options together. Cabin design is spare and sophisticated, though only with leather trim does it approach lavish. Materials first-rate, but Odysseys we've tested over the years have tended to develop interior rattles.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| LX | EX-L w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6 |
Spacious on wide, supportive seats. Front center "console" is a tray table that 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 | 6.9 |
Plenty of room on 2nd-row buckets that can be moved together to form a bench seat and slide fore and aft to adjust leg room. The 3rd-row bench comfortable enough, but adults feel squeezed, and access is for the small and limber. Sliding side doors provide large entryways. Power sliding doors useful, but are frustratingly slow and don't include manual override. Cupholders abound, but a true center console bin would provide more storage space than the tray.
CARGO ROOM
| LX | EX-L w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 9.3 |
Third-row seat that folds neatly into the floor is a real asset since you don't have to leave it behind. With all seats in place, deep well behind 3rd row provides added storage. Cargo space generous with 3rd seat folded, cavernous with all seats stowed. Two demerits: folding the 3rd row exposes two metal sidewall brackets that eat into cargo room. And standard space-saver spare tire stows in covered well ahead of the 2nd-row seats; the well won't hold a full-size tire, so a flat must be carried in the passenger or cargo area.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| LX | EX-L w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | 10 | 5.9 |
Odyssey isn't perfect, but it is a solid Best Buy: roomy, refined, well-built, reasonably priced. It's sprightly too, yet offers decent minivan economy on regular gas. But demand is strong, so expect to pay full sticker, maybe more.
Total Score
| LX | EX-L w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 68 | 67 | 57.1 |
Total Score: 68
Scores for all Minivans
Car Buying Resources
Search
Local Listings
Vehicle
History Report
FREE CARFAX Record Check
Looking at a used car, check for costly hidden problems before
you buy.
