SYDNEY: Honda’s Odyssey people-mover has been made more affordable this week, repositioned in response to Australia’s new Free Trade Agreement with Japan.
Taking effect this week, the pricing shuffle comes just one year on from the new Odyssey’s Australian debut.
Features and trim grades remain unchanged, but buyers can now get into the entry VTi model from $37,610 plus on-roads, while the top-spec VTi-L kicks off from $46,040 plus on-roads.
The new prices mark a $1380 reduction for the VTi and $1580 for the VTi-L.
As before, standard features with both models include ECON Mode and Eco Assist, Vehicle Stability Assist, Tyre Deflation Warning System, six airbags (including third row), Idle stop, three-mode reversing camera, LED daytime lights, auto on/off headlights and cruise control with steering-mounted buttons.
The entry VTi offers cloth trim, a retractable third-row seat with 40/20/40 split fold, power sliding door with remote open/close for passenger side, two-speed intermittent windscreen wipers and rear window wiper, HDMI jack and two USB ports, Hill Start Assist, power windows with remote open and 17-inch alloy wheels.
Opting for the top-shelf VTi-L model adds a multi-view camera system with Smart Park Assist, Blind Spot Information System and Cross-Traffic Monitor. Another highlight is the second row Captain’s Chairs with arm rests and ottoman. All seven seats are finished in leather-appointed trim and the front seats have heating.
Both models are powered by Honda’s 135kW/240Nm 2.4 litre petrol engine, with fuel consumption listed at 7.6 l/100km for the VTi and 7.8 l/100km for the VTi-L.
The Odyssey is currently Australia’s best-selling people-mover, achieving 2847 sales in 2014 against 1001 sales in 2013.
That result put the Odyssey ahead of the previous champion, Kia’s Grand Carnival, which achieved 2847 sales in 2013 but just 1592 in 2014.
The Carnival will soon mount a renewed challenge to the Odyssey, however, with an all-new model due in Australia later this month. Watch for TMR’s review.
