- Is there news about the 2018 Honda Odyssey?
- Will the Fiat 500L die soon?
- 2008 Nissan Altima vs Toyota Camry vs Honda Accord?
This first question comes from a reader who wants the 411 on the next Honda Odyssey.
Nathan,
I am probably the only person on earth eagerly anticipating the 2017 Honda Odyssey.
I’ve seen “spy shots” and heard speculation but Honda has not announced the 2017 (2018) model yet. Most rumors say it will be out by the end of this year which, if true, seems odd that they haven’t announced it yet. Do you have any scoop on when Honda will announce and release this beast?
Thanks,
Brian
A: Hi Brian!
No, you’re not the only one looking for information about the next Honda Odyssey, and you might be surprised at what Honda has in store for our market. Honda released a new Odyssey in Japan this past February. Not only was there significant upgrades with the regular model, a hybrid and a 4WD version will hit the Japanese market as well.
Here’s a piece of the press release for the 2016 Honda Odyssey in Japan:
“The newly-added Odyssey Hybrid and Odyssey Hybrid Absolute are the first Honda premium minivan models equipped with the revolutionary Honda-developed powertrain Sport Hybrid i-MMD and realize class-topping fuel economy of 26.0 km/L (JC08 mode). In the thorough pursuit of system efficiency, Honda developed a new motor that features an innovative winding method and structure. This newly-developed motor is approximately 23% smaller and lighter than the previous version and yet realizes high torque and high output. Moreover, by compactly emplacing the lithium-ion battery underneath the floor of the first-row seats, these hybrid models realize outstanding fuel economy as well as high-quality and powerful driving without compromising the unique features of the Odyssey such as a spacious cabin and ease of use.”
It’s a pretty good bet that many of the changes and upgrades of the Japanese-market Honda Odyssey could find their way to the North American version in a year or so. There’s lots of speculation that the regular model will get the nine-speed, push-button automatic transmission that’s available in the Honda Pilot.
N
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This next question is from a fan who Tweeted me (@NathanAdlen) about the possible demise of the Fiat 500L.
Nathan! Is FIAT killing the 500L this year?
I never see them around anymore.
Ken
A: Hi Ken.
As far as I know, the Fiat 500L will stick around for a little while longer. Fiat’s combined sales numbers are poor and there will be a few additions to the Fiat stable soon. As for discontinuations? Nothing has been announced yet.
N
P.S. Fiat dealers are willing to cut a good deal. If you must go for a four-door Fiat, consider the Fiat 500X, it’s much better than the 500L.
The last question comes from a video fan who’s choosing between a 2008 Nissan Altima, Toyota Camry and Honda Accord.
Nathan, 2008 Honda Accord, Nissan Altima or Toyota Camry
I think the Accord is the sportiest and the Toyota is the most comfortable, Nissan in the middle, (2008-2010 models) I’m buying used.
Cole
Hi Cole!
There are a lot of variables like: V6 or I4, trim and mileage.
Still, I have some experience with all of the cars you mentioned.
I like the Honda Accord V6 for its power and handling. Some people don’t like the design, but I find it fairly attractive. It’s a great car even by today’s standards.
All three are good, and the Toyota Camry is very reliable. The Toyota and Honda will hold their value far longer than the Nissan. There are four-cylinder options that you may want to look at too.
Hope that helps!
N
Here’s the next video episode of “Ask Nathan!”
Nathan and The Fast Lane Car team are here to answer your (reasonable) questions. Interesting and/or entertaining emails will be posted to this column. If it’s relevant in the automotive universe, there’s a chance we may know something about it. The author’s email address and name will be omitted – leaving your initials or nickname, your preference.
From day one, The Fast Lane Car has made it our policy to answer as many questions and comments as we can. We get thousands of emails and comments and feel that, as part of a tight-knit automotive community, having an open dialogue with you keeps things fresh and exciting.
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