22 MPG combined is what owners of the 2019 Honda Odyssey with the 3.5L V6 typically experience. Nobody buys a minivan for great fuel economy. They buy a minivan for space, practicality, and the ability to haul a small soccer team (and all their gear) in comfort. With that mission in mind, the Odyssey’s fuel consumption is an accepted tradeoff, rather than a dealbreaker.

City and highway performance

Breaking down that 22 MPG, the Odyssey gets 19 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go driving that many Odyssey owners experience daily, shuttling kids to school, running errands, and navigating crowded suburban streets. The highway number is more achievable on longer road trips, where the Odyssey’s comfortable ride and ample space truly shine. This difference suggests the Odyssey burns more gasoline with frequent short trips than with sustained highway driving. In short, the harder the Odyssey works, the greater the fuel consumption.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Honda Odyssey at $2,000. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that this is just an estimate; your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, fuel prices in your area, and the type of driving you do (more city or highway). However, it’s a useful benchmark for comparing the Odyssey’s fuel costs to other vehicles in its class.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy often differs because these tests don’t capture everyday driving conditions. Aggressive acceleration, heavy braking, and carrying extra weight onboard will all negatively impact fuel consumption. Owners who prioritize smooth acceleration and maintain consistent speeds will likely see figures closer to the EPA estimates. Many factors play a role, including tire inflation, proper maintenance, and even the weather.

How it compares

The minivan segment isn’t exactly known for great fuel efficiency, but there are differences between the models. The Chrysler Pacifica, equipped with its 3.6L V6, gets a combined 22 MPG, similar to the Odyssey. The Toyota Sienna, another popular choice, also posts a combined 21 MPG. The Pacifica offers a plug-in hybrid version, which significantly improves fuel economy if the buyer is willing to contend with the added complexity and cost. For buyers prioritizing fuel economy, the Pacifica Hybrid demands a closer look. The Kia Sedona typically falls slightly below the Odyssey and Pacifica in real-world tests. For an overview of all Honda fuel economy data, or ODYSSEY MPG across all years, FuelEconomyHub keeps a running tally.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 2019 Odyssey’s 3.5L V6 is a strong engine, but it’s not immune to the laws of physics. Gentle acceleration is key to fuel efficiency. A fast start from a stop sign will waste gas. Ease into the throttle to keep the engine in its most efficient operating range.

Pay attention to tire pressure, which can fluctuate with the weather, particularly if it turns colder. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which wastes gas and puts unnecessary wear on your tires. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate to the recommended pressure listed on the driver’s side door jamb.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Carrying around extra cargo you don’t need puts a strain on the engine and decreases fuel economy. Clear out any junk that’s been accumulating in the trunk or cargo area. The Odyssey has a fairly hefty curb weight, so any added weight will make a noticeable difference.

Lastly, consider using cruise control on the highway, which can help you maintain a consistent speed and avoid unnecessary acceleration and braking and therefore improve fuel efficiency. If you are consistently going up and down hills, it may be beneficial to turn off cruise control. By anticipating the terrain, you can modulate the gas pedal with smoother results.