Honda Odyssey Hybrid

For the first time in the Honda Odyssey's two-decade-long history, a hybrid model is offered in Honda's flagship minivan that has been nosing around against the likes of Toyota's Alphard and Nissan's Elgrand. So, what's it all about?

2016 Honda Odyssey Hybrid

Previewed from last year's Tokyo Motor Show and now on sale across Japan, the Odyssey Hybrid offers the same luxury features as the normal Odyssey would provide now with the hybrid powertrain to keep things going the distance. Of course, Japan is the nation where the hybrid car is born and is now spreading worldwide like a viral outbreak, but underneath the Odyssey Hybrid is the same hybrid powertrain derived from the Honda Accord.

It comes with the similar Sport Hybrid i-MMD (Intelligent Multi-Mode Drive) powertrain and if you need a quick refresher on that, it uses three different engine modes such as EV Drive Mode, Hybrid Drive Mode, and Engine Drive Mode.

With the Hybrid Drive Mode engaged, both the 2.0L i-VTEC petrol engine and the electric motor are working in unison to deliver a combined power output of 184PS of power and 315Nm of torque. With all that torque, looks like this minivan is off to a clean getaway now without all the drama involved. As for the fuel economy, it's no surprise that with the hybrid drivetrain and the CVT gearbox equipped, it's capable of 26.0km/L, which is surprisingly more than what the hybrid Toyota Alphard gets. Sharp move, though.

Apart from its hybrid powertrain, the new Odyssey Hybrid still has the same suspension layout as the normal gasoline variant, meaning it still comes with the front MacPherson struts, rear Torsion Beam, and Rack and Pinion Steering. Although it feels heavier to drive than the normal Odyssey and less exciting to drive for an individual, it's rather good and comfortable to drive on a day-to-day basis. Apart from using it as a family car on your next family bonding, it's well suited as an escort for celebrities, politicians, or any other VIPs. Sounds classy, right?

The Odyssey Hybrid starts at 3,560,000 Yen and while this may be more expensive to own than the normal Odyssey, it's surprisingly cheaper to own than the hybrid version of the Toyota Alphard, making it a smart buy.

Available Colors: White Orchid Pearl, Super Platinum Metallic, Modern Steel Metallic, Crystal Black Pearl, Premium Venus Black Pearl, Premium Deep Rosso Pearl, and Premium Spice Blue Pearl.

Photo: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.