Honda Odyssey e:HEV 2026 Launched in Japan with Minimal Updates, Price IDR 500 Million

Odyssey e:HEV 2026. (Photo: Carscoops)

JAKARTA - Honda has quietly launched the 2026 Odyssey e:HEV model for the Japanese market. However, instead of bringing significant updates, this minivan comes with very limited changes, even though it is accompanied by a significant price increase compared to the previous model.

The Odyssey e:HEV 2026 has increased in price by 286,000 yen, or equivalent to Rp30 million across all variants. In fact, overall, Honda has hardly touched on the design and technology offered on this new model.

This condition is considered contrasting, considering that Odyssey itself is said to still have difficulty attracting consumer interest in Japan. It should be noted, the Honda Odyssey marketed in Japan does not have any connection with the North American version, even though it uses the same name.

The model currently sold in the Sakura State is an old generation that has existed since 2013 and has only received two minor refreshes to keep its appearance relevant. After temporarily stopping domestic production at the end of 2021, Honda returned to present Odyssey in 2023 by importing units from China.

Reported by Carscoops, Wednesday, December 17, the move keeps the Odyssey name alive in the Japanese market, even without any meaningful evolution in terms of product. For the 2026 model, the exterior changes are only the addition of one new color, namely Diamond Dust Pearl.

The color is claimed to be inspired by the sparkle of ice crystals in the sky and is only available for the Black Edition variant. The trim is also equipped with glossy black accents and 18-inch rims, which are the only visual distinguishing touch.

Entering the cabin, the 2026 Odyssey e:HEV is almost unchanged, Honda only added manual window curtains on the rear window. Interestingly, this feature was previously available as a paid optional accessory, so the price increase on the latest model is difficult to justify.

In terms of technology, Honda has not made any updates. The Odyssey e:HEV still relies on a hybrid system that combines a 2.0-liter gasoline engine with an electric motor, producing a combined power of 181 hp. All power is sent to the front wheels through an E-CVT transmission.

In Japan, the Honda Odyssey e:HEV 2026 is marketed with a starting price of 5,086,400 yen (Rp546 million) to 5,450,500 yen (Rp585 million). All variants experienced the same price increase compared to last year's model.

According to a Creative Trend report, consumer interest in Honda's large minivans is still low. In fact, it is said that there are dealers who have only received one order since the 2026 model was announced, a condition that has sparked concerns among the sales network.

Odyssey is also considered to lose features compared to its competitors in the premium minivan segment. A number of facilities such as four-zone climate control, panoramic roof, heated steering wheel, seat ventilation, head-up display, and other comfort features are not available on this model.

As an alternative, Honda still offers another minivan option in Japan at a more affordable price. The Step WGN medium-sized is sold starting at 3,348,400 yen (equivalent to Rp360 million), while the more compact Freed is priced starting at 2,623,500 yen (equivalent to Rp281 million).