Why hasn't the Odyssey undergone a model change?
3 Answers
No competition, this is the reason why Odyssey only gets facelifts instead of full model changes. Odyssey performance introduction: Since its debut in 1994, the Odyssey has achieved both "spacious interior" and "excellent driving performance" through Honda's unique ultra-low floor technology. Odyssey positioning introduction: Honda considers the Odyssey to be one level below Toyota's Alphard. Meanwhile, unlike in Japan where the Odyssey lacks direct competitors, in the increasingly competitive Chinese 7-seater SUV market, it needs to further enhance its competitiveness. The Odyssey's exterior designer Morioka referenced China-exclusive model Dongfeng Honda Elysion. The Elysion is positioned higher than the Odyssey, hence it uses larger chrome decorations on the front grille.
Actually, I think Honda has its own plans for the MPV market. Although the sixth-generation Odyssey was launched overseas last year, its delayed introduction in China is mainly due to market considerations. Nowadays, 7-seater SUVs have taken away too many MPV customers—just look at how well business-oriented models like the GL8 sell compared to family MPVs. Honda probably believes that the current fifth-generation Odyssey still holds up well in terms of comfort and space, with proven reliability, and rushing a换代 would only increase costs. Additionally, their focus in recent years has been on promoting electric vehicles and换代 SUVs—cash cows like the CR-V and皓影 are the real priorities. That said, the current Odyssey still uses a torsion beam rear suspension, and the hybrid system is a bit noisy—it really needs an upgrade. But I guess we’ll have to wait until the domestic market shows higher acceptance of pure-electric MPVs before we see any major moves.
I think the fundamental issue is that the MPV market is too niche. Look at last year's domestic MPV sales, which didn't even reach a million units—just a fraction of SUV sales. Developing a new-generation MPV platform can easily cost billions, and Honda definitely needs to crunch the numbers. The current Odyssey sells around 3,000 to 4,000 units per month—how much would a new generation really boost that? It might not even recoup the R&D costs. Add to that the pressure of transitioning to new energy vehicles, and automakers would rather invest resources in hybrid and pure-electric versions of their hot-selling SUVs. In reality, the Odyssey's target demographic is quite fixed: families with two children, who prioritize reliability over trendy features. Honda probably figures that while the current infotainment system is a bit outdated, the Magic Seats and low-floor design remain core competitive advantages, so there's no urgent need for a refresh.
