Ultimate minivan showdown: honda odyssey ex vs. exl – which offers the best value?

The Honda Odyssey has long been a top choice for families seeking a spacious, versatile, and reliable minivan. With two popular trim levels, the EX and EXL, buyers may wonder which one is the right fit for their needs. This comprehensive comparison will dive deep into the differences between the Honda Odyssey EX vs. EXL, examining their features, performance, and value to help you make an informed decision.

Exterior Features

The Odyssey EX and EXL share a similar exterior design, with a sleek and modern aesthetic. However, the EXL adds a touch of luxury with chrome accents on the grille, door handles, and window trim. Additionally, the EXL comes standard with LED fog lights, while the EX has halogen fog lights.

Interior Features

The EX and EXL offer a spacious and comfortable cabin with seating for up to eight passengers. The EX features cloth upholstery, while the EXL upgrades to leather upholstery. Both trim levels come standard with power-adjustable front seats and a second-row bench seat that can be folded down for extra cargo space. The EXL adds a power sunroof, rear window sunshades, and a rear entertainment system with a DVD player.

Technology and Safety

Both the EX and EXL come well-equipped with advanced technology and safety features. They share a standard 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The EXL adds a navigation system and satellite radio. In terms of safety, both trims feature Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced driver-assist technologies including adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and automatic emergency braking.

Performance

Under the hood, the Odyssey EX and EXL are powered by the same 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. Both trims are available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The EXL comes standard with a 10-speed automatic transmission, while the EX offers a 9-speed automatic transmission.

Fuel Economy

The Odyssey EX and EXL offer similar fuel economy ratings. The front-wheel drive models achieve an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, while the all-wheel drive models get 18 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.

Price and Value

The 2023 Honda Odyssey EX has a starting price of $35,690, while the EXL starts at $40,960. The EXL offers a significant upgrade in features and amenities for a price difference of around $5,000. However, the EX provides a solid foundation for family adventures at a more budget-friendly price point.

Which One is Right for You?

The choice between the Honda Odyssey EX and EXL ultimately depends on your needs and budget. If you’re looking for a spacious and comfortable minivan with essential features, the EX is a great option. For those who desire a more luxurious experience with advanced technology and premium amenities, the EXL is the way to go.

Additional Considerations

• Cargo space: The Odyssey EX offers 38.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row of seats, while the EXL has 32.8 cubic feet due to the rear entertainment system.
• Towing capacity: Both the EX and EXL have a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds.
• Warranty: Both trims come with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.

Information You Need to Know

Q: What is the key difference between the Odyssey EX and EXL?
A: The EXL offers upgraded features such as leather upholstery, a power sunroof, rear window sunshades, and a rear entertainment system.

Q: Which trim level has the better fuel economy?
A: The front-wheel drive EX and EXL have the same fuel economy ratings.

Q: Does the Odyssey EXL have a navigation system?
A: Yes, the EXL comes standard with a navigation system.

Q: What is the towing capacity of the Odyssey EX?
A: The Odyssey EX has a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds.

Q: How many passengers can the Odyssey seat?
A: The Odyssey can seat up to eight passengers.