Which Honda Odyssey Has a V-6?

In the U.S. market, every Honda Odyssey from the 1999 model year to the present uses a V-6 engine; only the first-generation Odyssey (1995–1998) came with a four-cylinder. This means all second-, third-, fourth-, and fifth‑generation U.S. Odysseys are V‑6 models.

Context and what to know

The Odyssey’s powertrain history differs by market, but in North America Honda standardized a V‑6 beginning with the 1999 redesign to deliver more power for larger, three-row family use. Below is a clear breakdown of which model years and generations have the V‑6, plus key specs for the current model.

Engine by generation (U.S. market)

The following list outlines each Odyssey generation sold in the United States and the type of engine it used, so you can quickly identify which years have a V‑6.

1995–1998 (1st generation): 2.2L/2.3L inline‑four (no V‑6)

1999–2004 (2nd generation): 3.5L V‑6 (J35 series)

2005–2010 (3rd generation): 3.5L V‑6 (J35), variable cylinder management (on select trims/years)

2011–2017 (4th generation): 3.5L V‑6 (J35), broader use of cylinder deactivation

2018–present (5th generation): 3.5L V‑6 (J35Y), 280 hp, 10‑speed automatic (9‑speed on some 2018–2019 trims; 10‑speed standard from 2020 onward)

Taken together, that means every U.S. Odyssey from 1999 forward has a V‑6, regardless of trim level.

Current model details (2018–present)

The current fifth‑generation Odyssey uses a 3.5‑liter V‑6 producing about 280 horsepower with a 10‑speed automatic transmission (the 10‑speed became standard across all trims starting with the 2020 model year; 2018–2019 lower trims used a 9‑speed). This setup emphasizes smooth power delivery, highway merging confidence, and family-hauling capability.

Notes on other markets

Outside North America, engine offerings have varied. Many Odysseys sold in Japan, Australia, and other regions have used four‑cylinder engines, with V‑6 availability limited or absent depending on the generation and market. If you are shopping outside the U.S., verify local specifications for the exact model year.

Summary

All U.S. Honda Odysseys from 1999 to the present are V‑6 models. Only the 1995–1998 first generation used a four‑cylinder. The current (2018–present) Odyssey continues with a 3.5‑liter V‑6 and a standard 10‑speed automatic since 2020.

Are all Odyssey V6?

Across all trim levels, the 2025 Odyssey is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower for driving in Beckley, WV. This naturally aspirated engine utilizes direct injection for optimal performance and efficiency.

What year to stay away from Honda Odyssey?

Used Honda Odyssey Model Years to Avoid
Due to possible transmission and engine issues, we’d avoid the 2011-2013 and 2018-2020 vans. If you’re looking at a third-generation or older Odyssey, we suggest you run it by a trusted mechanic first.