Honda's new Odyssey puts families first with more tech and a flexible interior

Serial crossovers have become the people movers of choice for many families, but there's still a healthy contingent whose allegiance remains with minivans. Lucky for them, there are still strong van entries out there, including the Chrysler Pacifica, Toyota Sienna, Kia Sedona and now an all-new Honda Odyssey that was just revealed at the Detroit Auto. For the focus on catering to families, Honda has put a lot of work into making the cabin quieter, more flexible, and packing in tech. Honda claims its efforts give the new Odyssey the quietest interior in the segment. All the better for passengers to enjoy listening to music on the display audio system, which is also capable of running both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. To keep the kids in back busy the rear entertainment system can now stream video through an optional 4G LTE Wi-Fi connection. The Odyssey is also more connected with a new cabin control smart phone app, which lets passengers control rear entertainment, climate, upload music to the van's audio system and pre-load destinations into navigation. Helping with parental oversight is an optional cabin watch Feature which is a camera system that works both in day and night to monitor what potential trouble makers in back are doing on the front screen. The chair updates don't end with tech though. A new magic slid second row seating system brings four different seating configurations to meet all people moving, cargo hauling, and accessibility needs. Providing power is a 3.5 liter V6 with 280 horse power which is 32 more ponies than the outgoing Model. Depending on trim, the engine works with either a nine or ten speed automatic transmission. Handling should also improve, with a chassis and body structure using more high strength steel, aluminum and magnesium to help drop curb weight while improving rigidity by 44%. Upgrades to the steering system and rear suspension also help sharpen response. The 2018 Honda Odyssey goes on sale this Spring. Base pricing isn't available yet but it shouldn't be far off from the current van, which starts at $29,850. [BLANK_AUDIO]