Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) successfully launched last night the all-new Honda Odyssey minivan in One Esplanade, Pasay City. Unlike the previous model that was launched in the Philippines in 2012 that was made for and shipped from the US, this variant is made in Japan, with specs tailored for the Asian market. No less than HCPI president and general manager Toshio Kuwahara presented the Odyssey to the audience present at the launch.
The all-new Honda Odyssey is the first vehicle in the Philippine lineup to be equipped with both a Honda Earth Dreams Technology 2.4-liter, DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine and Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT with 7-speed paddle shifter). Earth Dreams Technology is a next generation set of technological advancements that enhances the engine to greatly improve both fuel efficiency and driving performance. It is also equipped with the Eco Assist System, which consists of the ECON mode and the Eco coaching ambient light that promotes a more fuel-efficient driving habit.
To further help in realizing improved fuel efficiency, the All New Odyssey boasts of a first in its class Idle-Stop System which automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle comes to a complete stop, depending on the driver operation, environment inside and outside the vehicle, and vehicle condition.
The JDM Honda Odyssey’s exterior design was based on the “Solid Streamline” concept with an ultra-low platform that results in a sedan-like stance with low floor for better accessibility. The incorporation of LED dual projector type headlights, LED daytime running lights, LED tail lamps complete the all-new Odyssey’s stylish yet commanding presence on the road.
Although noticeably smaller than the American version, the all-new Odyssey can accommodate seven passengers comfortably with generous head, elbow and legroom. The interior design is dark and luxurious, with elegant appointments and high-end material. It is fitted with Captain Cradle Seats with Ottomans in the second row, and the third row has a three-way split reclining structure that allows the individual passengers to adjust their backrests to their liking. For added versatility, the third row seats also folds flat to accommodate more cargo. Incidentally, this configuration also allows the captain seats to slide backwards to give the passengers limousine-like space (READ: like a boss). The all-new Odyssey is also equipped with a seven-inch touch screen display audio with navigation system, as well as a roof-mounted nine-inch rear entertainment system with HDMI port and DVD player.
Driver comforts include: Smart Key with Push Start System; 8-way power seat with armrest; seven-inch touch screen display audio such as fuel consumption, trip computer, hands-free telephone (HFT) and audio streaming via Bluetooth connectivity; built in navigation system; steering wheel-mounted controls for audio and Bluetooth HFT; automatic air-conditioning system; as well as USB and HDMI ports
The all-new Odyssey is equipped with a multi-view camera system that consists of four wide-angle cameras that are located around the vehicle for a 360-degree view of the vehicle’s surroundings. For added safety and convenience, it features Honda’s Smart Parking Assist System that is capable of analyzing and detecting parking spaces where the luxury minivan can fit, as well as automatically steering the Odyssey into the parking space using the Electric Power Steering motor. Other safety features include: Blind Spot Information and Cross Traffic Monitor; Active Cornering Lights; Emergency Stop Signal (ESS); driver and passenger SRS airbags; side airbags; side curtain airbags; Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD); Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA); and Hill Start Assist (HSA).
Pricing and Colors
The all-new Odyssey is available with the introductory price of PHP 2,298,000. For those who prefer a sportier look — a MUGEN sport package, which includes genuine MUGEN front sports grille, front lower grille, wing spoiler, door visor and luggage mat, can be installed for only P91,200. Alternately, the Modulo Executive package — composed of a fender garnish, door mirror garnish, rear license garnish, cargo net and tray — is also available and retails for P21,700. This package will be given for free to customers who will buy the all-new Odyssey until March 31, 2015.
The all-new Odyssey is readily available in 3 sophisticated colors: premium twinkle black pearl (plus P20,000); white orchid pearl (plus P20,000); and modern steel metallic. Other colors available by order are glamorous mauve pearl; super platinum metallic; carnelian red pearl; and crystal black pearl, however, we were told that units with special colors would take around three months to arrive from Japan.
