Update of the Honda Odyssey for the Japanese market
Honda has introduced an updated version of the Odyssey e:HEV minivan for the 2026 model year for the Japanese market. However, this update turned out to be very minor but is accompanied by a noticeable price increase. The car has become more expensive by 286,000 yen (approximately $1,800 USD) compared to the previous model, which seems like a strange step given the low demand for this model.
Differences of the Japanese version
It is important to understand that the Japanese version of the Odyssey has nothing in common with the model sold in North America. The current generation for the Japanese market debuted back in 2013 and has since received two facelifts. After production ceased in Japan at the end of 2021, Honda returned the model to the market in 2023, starting to import it from China, which did not bring significant changes to the design.
Exterior and Interior
Changes to the exterior for 2026 are limited to just one new paint option. The Diamond Dust Pearl color, which mimics the sparkle of ice crystals, is available exclusively for the Black Edition trim. This version also received glossy black accents and matching 18-inch wheels.
The interior has remained virtually unchanged. The only addition is manual sunshades for the rear windows. However, they were already available as a paid option, so their inclusion in the base trim is unlikely to explain the overall price increase.
Technical Specifications
There have been no technical updates either. The car continues to use the same hybrid powertrain: a 2.0-liter gasoline engine paired with a single electric motor. The total system output is 181 hp (131 kW). The drive is front-wheel, and the transmission is an E-CVT.
New Prices and Competition
The price of the 2026 Honda Odyssey e:HEV in Japan now ranges from 5,086,400 to 5,450,500 yen (approximately $32,800 – $35,200 USD). This means a uniform price increase of 286,000 yen for all trims.
According to Creative Trend, customer interest in Honda’s large minivan remains low, with one dealer receiving only one order since the 2026 model was announced last month.
For comparison, the competitor Toyota Alphard starts at a similar price but offers much more expensive versions. Furthermore, the new generation Nissan Elgrand, expected to be introduced in the summer of 2026, could intensify competition in the segment even more.
Competitiveness Issues
The Odyssey lags behind competitors in terms of premium features. It lacks four-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, a heated steering wheel, ventilated seats, a head-up display, and other options offered by rivals.
Japanese buyers who specifically want a Honda minivan have access to more affordable models. For example, the mid-size Step WGN starts from 3,348,400 yen, and the compact Freed starts from 2,623,500 yen.
Honda’s strategy for the Odyssey in Japan raises questions. The model, which has existed for over a decade without a full generation change, receives minimal updates along with a significant price increase amid low demand. This is happening in an extremely competitive segment where Japanese buyers have a wide choice among other minivans as well as among more affordable models from the brand itself. Dealers have legitimate concerns about the model’s future, and many believe a full generation change is long overdue. Under such conditions, minor cosmetic changes are unlikely to revive interest in the car, especially when state-of-the-art developments from direct competitors are on the horizon.