Honda Odyssey

Highlights

• 7+ seat capacity with captain chairs
• 5-Star NCAP safety rating
• Lowest depreciation in class

Summary

This 2019 Honda Odyssey EXL represents a highly sought-after family vehicle in the GCC, offering the perfect balance of luxury features and Japanese reliability. While the mileage reflects active use, these vehicles are engineered for the long-distance highway hauls typical of the region, and being a GCC-spec model ensures it has been maintained to local standards. The EXL trim is a strategic choice for second-hand buyers as it includes essential premium features like leather seating and advanced safety tech without the complexity of higher trims. The deep blue exterior provides a sophisticated look that holds its appeal well in a market often dominated by white and silver. This model stands out for its superior interior modularity and road manners, which remain the benchmark for the minivan segment in the Emirates and beyond. For a growing family in the GCC, this is a turn-key solution that prioritizes passenger comfort and long-term resale stability.

This Car vs Other 2019 Odysseys

With approximately 170,000 km on the odometer, this vehicle has been driven more than the average GCC annual estimate of 25,000 km, yet it remains in a prime phase for its robust V6 powertrain. In the local market, high-mileage Odysseys are often preferred over lower-mileage imports because their history on local roads is documented and they are equipped with GCC-specific cooling systems. This specific unit benefits from being a GCC-spec car, which significantly enhances its value compared to North American or European imports that may lack the same radiator and AC specifications. The blue exterior is a refreshing alternative to the standard palette, offering a distinctive look while remaining easy to maintain in the dusty GCC environment. Buyers will find that the wear on this vehicle is consistent with high-speed highway commuting between emirates, which is generally easier on the engine and transmission than stop-start city traffic. It serves as a testament to the model's durability, staying rattle-free and composed even after substantial use.

EXL vs Lower Trims

Moving up to the EXL trim from the base LX or EX models introduces a significant upgrade in cabin materials and lifestyle technology that GCC buyers value. The inclusion of genuine leather-trimmed seating not only adds a layer of luxury but is far more practical for families in this region as it is easier to clean and stays cooler than fabric when the vehicle is properly tinted. This trim also adds a power tailgate and a power-adjustable front passenger seat, providing a more premium experience for both the driver and the co-pilot. One of the most appreciated upgrades is the auto-dimming rearview mirror and the integrated HomeLink system, which simplifies daily commutes in gated communities. Furthermore, the EXL often includes additional acoustic glass in the windshield, which noticeably reduces wind noise during high-speed drives on the E11 or E311 highways. The sunroof, standard on this trim, allows for a more airy cabin feel during the pleasant winter months in the UAE and Saudi Arabia.

Odyssey vs Segment Rivals

The Honda Odyssey consistently leads its primary competitors, such as the Toyota Previa and the Kia Carnival, in terms of driving dynamics and interior flexibility. While the Previa is known for reliability, the Odyssey offers a more powerful 6-cylinder engine that is better suited for overtaking on fast-moving GCC motorways. Compared to the Kia Carnival, the Odyssey provides a more intuitive infotainment experience and superior second-row 'Magic Slide' seating, which allows for easier access to the third row even with child seats installed. The Odyssey’s air conditioning system is widely regarded as one of the best in its class, a critical factor for families living in the heat of Dubai or Kuwait. It also boasts a lower floor height than many large SUVs, making it easier for children and elderly family members to enter and exit. This combination of car-like handling and massive internal volume makes it a more sensible choice for urban GCC families than a bulky body-on-frame SUV.

Running Costs & Resale

Owning a GCC-spec Honda Odyssey is a financially sound decision due to the brand's expansive service network and strong parts availability across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Oman. The 3.5L V6 engine typically averages around 10.5 to 11 liters per 100km on the highway, making it relatively efficient for a 7-seater when cruising at 120 km/h. Maintenance is straightforward, with major service intervals occurring every 10,000 km at authorized centers like Al-Futtaim or Abdullah Hashim. The resale value for the Odyssey in the GCC is exceptionally high, typically losing only 8-12% of its value annually, which is far better than European luxury vans. Even at higher mileages, there is always a strong secondary market for GCC-spec Hondas because buyers trust the mechanical integrity of the local cooling and filtration systems. Spare parts are available not just at dealerships but also through a wide network of independent specialists, ensuring that long-term ownership costs remains predictable and manageable.

Performance & Capability

Under the hood is a refined 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces ample power for a fully loaded vehicle, ensuring you never feel underpowered when merging into fast-moving traffic. The automatic transmission is tuned for smoothness, providing seamless gear changes that prioritize passenger comfort over aggressive shifts. On the highway, the Odyssey feels planted and stable, largely thanks to its sophisticated suspension geometry which handles the occasional road imperfections of older city streets with ease. While it is a front-wheel-drive van, it handles long-distance family road trips between Riyadh and Dammam or Dubai and Salalah with remarkable composure. The steering is light enough for easy parking in tight mall basements yet gains enough weight at speed to inspire confidence on the open road. It also offers a respectable towing capacity for light trailers, though its primary strength lies in its ability to maintain high speeds quietly and efficiently for hours on end.

Comfort & Cabin

The interior of the Odyssey EXL is designed for maximum family harmony, featuring 7-passenger seating with comfortable captain's chairs in the second row. The tri-zone automatic climate control is exceptionally powerful, featuring dedicated vents for the second and third rows to ensure every passenger stays cool during 50°C summer days. Interior noise insulation is a hallmark of this generation, with active noise cancellation technology working to keep the cabin whisper-quiet even at highway speeds. The infotainment system is centrally located and easy to use, providing essential connectivity for long drives. There is an abundance of storage cubbies and cup holders throughout the cabin, catering to the needs of a large household on the go. The third-row 'Magic Seat' can be folded into the floor with one hand, transforming the vehicle from a people-mover into a high-capacity cargo van in seconds. Overall, the cabin feels more like a lounge than a vehicle, making it ideal for the school run or cross-border travel.

Safety

Safety is where the Odyssey truly excels, having earned top honors in international crash testing which carries over to the GCC-spec models. This EXL trim is equipped with a suite of airbags and stability control systems specifically tuned to handle the high-speed environments of the region. The inclusion of a multi-angle rearview camera makes maneuvering this large vehicle in urban areas significantly safer and easier. Honda’s engineering focus on structural integrity provides peace of mind for parents, offering a protective cell that ranks among the best in the minivan segment. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alerts are particularly helpful on the multi-lane highways of the UAE, where fast-moving cars can frequently appear in difficult angles. The vehicle also features ISOFIX mounting points in both the second and third rows, ensuring that child seats are anchored with maximum security for the youngest passengers.

The bottom line

This GCC-spec Odyssey EXL is the ideal choice for a pragmatic family buyer who needs maximum space and reliability without the premium price tag of a new model. Since it's built to local specifications, it offers the peace of mind and resale protection that only a genuine regional car can provide in the UAE market.

AI insights generated from market expert data. Always inspect the vehicle before purchase.