Honda quietly introduces the Odyssey Black Edition for 2023
The van segment remains dynamic despite the lack of competitors. The surprising Kia Carnival was introduced last year, while the Toyota Sienna is now only offered in a hybrid version. Honda has not said its last word despite the traditional approach of the Odyssey. For its sixth year on the market, it receives some improvements, including the arrival of a declination Black Edition a first for this van.
Honda hasn’t been very vocal about this; this new version was discovered inadvertently during a visit to the manufacturer’s Canadian site, which already presents the 2023 models of the minivan. Details and photos are otherwise sparse; we contacted the manufacturer to find out more.
As with other models from the manufacturer, such as the Pilot and the Ridgeline, the Black Edition version sits at the top of the Odyssey range. To differentiate it from the Touring version from which it derives, the Black Edition relies on a sporty stylistic approach.
On the outside, all of the chrome that was front and rear, as well as the spoiler atop the tailgate is gloss black, and the door handles are body color. Black wheels complete the package. Three exterior colors are offered: Sonic Grey, Crystal Black Pearl and Platinum White Pearl.
On board, the mood lighting in the dash, doors and under the dash is now red to reflect the sportier approach, while the black seats with red stitching feature a ‘Black Edition’ badge. to embellish the model.
This new version responds to the Chrysler Pacifica, which offers an S option package for most of its versions. This package removes the chrome from the body and the flourishes of the cabin and replaces them with black elements.
Change of strategy for releases
While the 2022 model year forced the buyer to turn to the EX-L Navi version at $50,386 to buy the least expensive Odyssey, the strategy changes in 2023. It’s the return of an EX version more affordable that drops the price to $47,671 and offers tri-zone automatic climate control, rear seat entertainment system with 10.2-inch screen, seating for eight, heated seats and privacy curtains the back.
Thereafter, you have to upgrade to the EX-L version ($52,671), which offers leather seats with driver memory, no USB charging port, an electric tailgate, and 18-inch two-tone wheels. The Touring trim ($58,871) adds blue mood lighting, wireless charging, ventilated front seats, a 550-watt audio system, Wi-Fi hotspot, navigation system and 19 inch wheels.
Finally, the Black Edition version commands an additional premium of $1,800 compared to the Touring, which raises the price to $60,671. All versions continue to be powered by the 3.5-liter V6 of 280 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque, which is mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission that sends power to the front wheels.
