Choosing the right minivan for your family can feel overwhelming. With so many models and trims available, it’s essential to do your research and find the perfect fit for your needs and budget. The Honda Odyssey consistently ranks as a top choice, known for its reliability, spaciousness, and family-friendly features. Among the various trim levels, the EX-L and Touring stand out as popular options, offering a compelling blend of features and value. But which one is truly the best choice for you? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between the Honda Odyssey Touring versus EXL, helping you make an informed decision and drive away in the minivan of your dreams.
Honda Odyssey EX-L: A Sweet Spot of Features and Value
The Honda Odyssey EX-L is often considered the sweet spot in the Odyssey lineup. It provides a significant step up from the lower trims, adding a touch of luxury and convenience without breaking the bank. One of the most appealing features of the EX-L is its leather-trimmed seats. Not only do they offer a more comfortable and upscale feel, but they are also easier to clean than cloth seats, a definite plus for families with young children. The EX-L also comes equipped with a power tailgate, making loading and unloading groceries or luggage a breeze. No more fumbling with keys or struggling to lift a heavy tailgate manually. A sunroof adds a touch of open-air enjoyment to the cabin, allowing natural light to flood the interior and creating a more pleasant driving experience. For added safety, the EX-L includes a Blind Spot Information System (BSI), alerting you to vehicles in your blind spots, a crucial feature for navigating busy highways. Overall, the Honda Odyssey EX-L represents an excellent balance of features, comfort, and affordability, making it a popular choice for families seeking a well-equipped minivan.
Honda Odyssey Touring: Elevating the Minivan Experience
Stepping up to the Honda Odyssey Touring trim takes the minivan experience to another level. While the EX-L offers a great package, the Touring adds a range of premium features and conveniences that can significantly enhance family road trips and daily commutes. Perhaps the most talked-about feature of the Touring is the HondaVAC, an integrated vacuum cleaner conveniently located in the rear of the vehicle. This ingenious addition makes it incredibly easy to clean up crumbs, spills, and other messes that inevitably accumulate in a minivan filled with kids. The Touring also boasts a rear entertainment system, complete with a large screen and wireless headphones, keeping rear passengers entertained on long journeys. This can be a lifesaver for parents trying to maintain peace and quiet on road trips. CabinWatch allows the driver and front passenger to view the rear seats on the central display, making it easier to monitor children without turning around. Coupled with CabinTalk, which lets the driver communicate with rear passengers through the audio system, the Touring helps parents stay connected and in control. Finally, the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System provides turn-by-turn directions, ensuring you always reach your destination with ease. The Honda Odyssey Touring is designed to provide the ultimate in family comfort, convenience, and entertainment.
Dissecting the Details: Honda Odyssey Touring Versus EXL Feature Comparison
Exterior Distinctions
While both the EX-L and Touring share the same overall design and sleek lines, some subtle exterior differences set them apart. The Touring often features larger or more stylish alloy wheels, adding a touch of sophistication to its appearance. Depending on the model year, there might be slight variations in the exterior lighting, such as LED headlights or fog lights. Another convenient feature often found on the Touring is power-folding mirrors, which automatically fold in when the vehicle is parked, protecting them from damage in tight spaces. These exterior enhancements, while not drastic, contribute to the Touring’s more premium aesthetic.
Interior Comfort and Convenience
Inside, the differences between the EX-L and Touring become more apparent. While both trims offer leather upholstery, the Touring might feature higher-quality leather or unique stitching patterns. Rear sunshades are another feature that often distinguishes the Touring, providing added privacy and protection from the sun for rear passengers. The Odyssey’s signature Magic Slide second-row seats, which allow for easy access to the third row, are typically standard on both trims. The audio system is another area where the Touring often excels, boasting a higher number of speakers and potentially a more powerful amplifier for a richer sound experience.
Technology and Safety Enhancements
When it comes to technology and safety, both the EX-L and Touring offer a comprehensive suite of features. The Blind Spot Information System (BSI) is generally standard on both trims, along with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, which warns you of approaching vehicles when backing out of a parking space. The infotainment screen size and features are usually comparable, with both trims offering smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the Touring often adds the integrated navigation system, a significant advantage for those who prefer not to rely on their phone for directions. The rear entertainment system, a hallmark of the Touring, provides hours of entertainment for rear passengers, while CabinWatch and CabinTalk enhance communication and monitoring capabilities. The Honda Sensing suite of safety features, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and collision mitigation braking, is typically standard on both trims, providing an added layer of protection for you and your family.
Convenience Features That Matter
Convenience is key in a minivan, and the Touring offers several features that elevate the daily driving experience. While the EX-L features a power tailgate, the Touring often upgrades to a hands-free power tailgate, allowing you to open the tailgate with a simple wave of your foot, a lifesaver when your hands are full. The HondaVAC, as mentioned earlier, is a Touring exclusive, providing unparalleled convenience for cleaning up messes on the go. Parking sensors, which assist with maneuvering in tight spaces, are also more likely to be standard on the Touring. Heated front seats are usually included on both trims, providing warmth and comfort on chilly days. Tri-zone climate control, allowing for individualized temperature settings for the driver, front passenger, and rear passengers, is another common feature on both the EX-L and Touring.
Performance Considerations
Under the hood, the Honda Odyssey EX-L and Touring typically share the same engine and transmission. The Odyssey is known for its smooth and responsive V6 engine, providing ample power for hauling passengers and cargo. Fuel economy is generally similar between the two trims, with only minor variations due to slight differences in weight or features. Ride quality is also comparable, with both trims offering a comfortable and composed driving experience. However, some subtle suspension tuning differences might exist, potentially providing the Touring with a slightly more refined ride.
EX-L Strengths and Weaknesses
EX-L: The Pros
The most significant advantage of the EX-L is its affordability. It provides a substantial value proposition, offering a generous array of features at a competitive price point. Leather upholstery, a power tailgate, and essential safety technologies like blind spot monitoring make the EX-L a well-equipped and comfortable minivan. For families who want a step up from the base trim without breaking the bank, the EX-L is an excellent choice.
EX-L: The Cons
While the EX-L offers a lot, it does lack some of the higher-end tech and convenience features found on the Touring. The absence of the rear entertainment system, HondaVAC, and CabinWatch might be a dealbreaker for some families, particularly those with young children who frequently take long road trips. The lack of hands-free tailgate can also be a minor inconvenience for those who often find themselves with their hands full.
Touring Advantages and Drawbacks
Touring: The Upsides
The Touring trim shines in its offering of family-focused features. The inclusion of the rear entertainment system is a major draw for families with kids, providing a source of entertainment that can make long journeys much more pleasant. CabinWatch and CabinTalk are invaluable tools for parents, allowing them to monitor and communicate with rear passengers without distractions. The HondaVAC is a unique and incredibly convenient feature that helps keep the interior clean and tidy. For those who prioritize convenience and comfort, the Touring offers the ultimate minivan experience.
Touring: The Downsides
The primary drawback of the Touring is its higher price point. The added features come at a cost, making it a more significant investment than the EX-L. For some families, the extra expense might not be justifiable, particularly if they don’t anticipate using all of the Touring’s exclusive features.
Deciphering Price Versus Value
The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for both the EX-L and Touring trims will vary depending on the model year, location, and any optional equipment. It’s essential to research current pricing at local dealerships to get an accurate estimate. The key question is whether the added cost of the Touring is worth it for the additional features. Consider how frequently you will use the rear entertainment system, HondaVAC, and other exclusive features. If you have young children and frequently take long road trips, the Touring’s features might be invaluable. However, if you primarily use your minivan for shorter trips and don’t anticipate needing the extra amenities, the EX-L might be a more practical choice.
Who is Each Trim Best Suited For?
The EX-L Ideal Owner
The EX-L is best suited for families who are budget-conscious but still want a well-equipped minivan with essential features like leather seats, a power tailgate, and advanced safety technology. It’s a great option for those who don’t need the rear entertainment system or the added convenience of the HondaVAC. Families who primarily use their minivan for shorter trips and everyday errands will find the EX-L to be a practical and comfortable choice.
The Touring Ideal Owner
The Touring is the perfect choice for families with young children who will heavily utilize the rear entertainment system and CabinWatch. It’s also ideal for those who value the added convenience of the HondaVAC and hands-free tailgate. Buyers who want the most luxurious and feature-rich minivan experience will appreciate the Touring’s premium amenities and advanced technologies.
Final Verdict
Ultimately, the choice between the Honda Odyssey Touring versus EXL depends on your individual needs, priorities, and budget. Both trims offer a compelling package of features, reliability, and family-friendly design. The EX-L provides an excellent balance of value and comfort, while the Touring elevates the minivan experience with its premium amenities and advanced technologies. We encourage you to visit your local Honda dealership to test drive both trims and experience the differences firsthand. By carefully considering your family’s needs and preferences, you can choose the Honda Odyssey trim that is perfectly suited to your lifestyle and embark on countless memorable journeys. Whether you prioritize value or all-out features, the Honda Odyssey EX-L and Touring trims offer compelling choices for families seeking a reliable and comfortable minivan.
