2008 Honda Odyssey Safety Review [ 2007 ]
in Minivans
Based on analysis of 45 Odyssey reviews and test drives.
Safety - What the Auto Press Says
Government crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) award the 2008 Honda Odyssey a top score of five stars for both frontal and side impact crash tests, as well as a rollover rating of four of five stars.
Accident Avoidance
Automobile Magazine says that "the Odyssey features enough safety features to make a soft landing on Mars." Every 2008 Honda Odyssey comes outfitted with an anti-lock braking system (ABS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with Traction Control, Brake Assist, a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), and Immobilizer Theft-Deterrent System. Moreover, a rearview camera is included in Honda's optional navigation system, made available for the Odyssey EX-L and Touring. According to Automotive.com, "The rearview camera makes parallel parking easier and also functions as a safety feature: By displaying what's behind the car on the navigation screen, it can show the driver unseen hazards such as a small child possibly preventing a tragic accident."
Only standard on the Odyssey Touring is Michelin Pax System Run-Flat Technology -- which, according to Kelley Blue Book, allows drivers facing a flat tire to continue driving on it at 50 mph for up to 125 miles.
Crash Protection
The Honda Odyssey is equipped with dual-stage/dual-threshold front air bags, front side air bags with a passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS), three-row side curtain air bags with rollover sensor, side-impact door beams, and a Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren (LATCH) system. Moreover, three-point seat belts at all seating positions and a front seat belt automatic tensioning system help to protect passengers. "It's easy to see why this van is so highly rated. Even the eighth person in the Odyssey, in the middle, optional seat in the second row, has a three-point safety belt," says MSN.
The Insurance Institute For Highway Safety (IIHS) awards the 2008 Honda Odyssey a rating of "good" (the highest possible) for both frontal offset and side impact crash tests.
