Toyota Ipsum vs. Honda Odyssey: Which Used Car is Best?

In recent years, those in the market for a larger sized vehicle to transport larger families and cargo don’t have to look far. Two solid choices are the Toyota Ipsum and Honda Odyssey, both of which offer a number of similarities and differences. How might you know which is best for you? Read on to find out!

Toyota Ipsum Introduction

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The Toyota Ipsum—also known as the Picnic, SportsVan or Avensis Verso—is a seven-seater multi-purpose vehicle produced from 1995 to 2009. The production was a result of a growing demand for minivans and other smaller sized vehicles, with its chasses based on those of the Toyota Corolla Premio. The model’s main target is young families and, due to this, the car is fitted with three seating rows that accommodate for up to seven passengers.

The driver’s seat in particular is set at a height that gives good visibility and overall spaciousness. The Ipsum’s first generation lasted until 2001, when its second generation was released. With this, its interior space was enlarged and engine displacement increased while still maintaining the original model’s efficiency.

Honda Odyssey Introduction

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The Honda Odyssey is a minivan that has been manufactured and distributed into the automotive market since 1994. The model is currently in its fifth generation, with each series adding additional improvements and features. The Odyssey is also renowned for its superior level of safety, having one of the lowest rates of driver and passenger death or severe injury of its class.

Pricing and Features Comparison

The Honda Odyssey is quiet, comfortable, and flexible and a model equipped with several features of modern technology, such as an inbuilt infotainment system, giving it formidable family-friendly appeal. Examples of a number of model’s safety features include automated emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and assisted lane monitoring. Exceptionally affordable and popular within the used car market, many used Honda Odyssey models are offered at prices ranging from around $415 to around $1900.

The Toyota Ipsum is a complete multipurpose van featuring a spacious interior. The car’s dashboard is equipped with a generously-sized glove box in which important documents can be stored, and for maximum comfort it also has an adjustable steering depending on the needs of the driver.

The Ipsum offers much space for leg and head movement, and its seating arrangement allows for even comfort for each of its up to seven passengers. It also has broad and light alloy wheels that improve the overall look of tires, as well as the vehicle’s driving efficiency. It has a strong suspension while at the same time maintaining a solid fuel consumption rate, of which is gasoline is primarily used as its main fuel source. However, a used Toyota Ipsum costs from around $945 to $1800, which is more expensive in direct comparison with the Honda Odyssey.

Interior and Exterior Comparison

Above: Honda Odyssey 2008 Interior

The Toyota Ipsum’s interior is more spacious, seeing as its original intention was for family use. Its seating arrangement can be adjusted for better flexibility, and it also features arm rests. Interior features include central locking with a remote-control key, easily cleanable fabric upholstery, inbuilt DVD player, electric front seats, cruise control, and a chic interior light. The auto’s exterior is designed with roof rails, alloy wheels, xenon headlights, rear roof spoiler, dual climate control, and fog lights.

Above: Toyota Ipsum 1998 Interior

The Honda Odyssey interior is equipped with a vibrant instrument panel that also houses a full 7-inch digital driver information interface. It also boasts an 8-inch display touch-screen, and a floor fitted with an all-season mat which protects any damage to the carpet. Its exterior has features such as a rear spoiler, mudguards, heated exterior mirror, power trunk lid, rear wiper, and interval wipers. In addition to its lower price, when comparing the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Ipsum a used Odyssey model may be the better choice for many due to its abundance of features.

Engine and Fuel Efficiency Comparison

The Toyota Ipsum has an engine with an average displacement of 2360cc, and uses gasoline as its fuel. The Ipsum gives a maximum power of up to 159hp and a torque of 200Nm, and the auto has a combined fuel consumption of around 0.55 mpg or 4.3l per kilometer. It also has 4 engine valves for the four cylinders, and generally offers a fuel tank of up to 61 litres or 16.11 gallons. The car also operates on an automatic transmission system.

Above: Honda Odyssey 2010 Exterior Rear

The Honda Odyssey has a 3.5l V6 engine type with a displacement capacity of up to 3471cc. its torque is 250NM/ 4800 rpm, with a horsepower (HP) of around 248. The auto’s fuel economy is 22mpg, with a tank capacity of 20 gallons that commonly uses regular unleaded. In terms of fuel efficiency, the Toyota Ipsum is a better choice relative to the Odyssey. The Odyssey, however, has a higher engine displacement than the Ipsum.

Drivability and Handling Comparison

The Toyota Ipsum is fitted with safety features such as seat belts and an automatic brake system that are both equally crucial during emergencies or accidents. The Odyssey model is also fitted with these safety features, however due to its overall durability and well-established level of safety the Odyssey may offer slightly higher peace of mind for the driver and passengers.

Above: Toyota Ipsum 2003 Back Exterior

Toyota Ipsum vs. Honda Odyssey: Verdict

While both the Toyota Ipsum and Honda Odyssey offer a variety of similar features, the number of slight differences in things such as fuel efficiency, interior space, and pricing may sway a potential buyer to either vehicle. For example, the Toyota Ipsum is more fuel efficient than the Odyssey model, making it best among the two in this regard, while for overall price point a used Odyssey is generally offered significantly cheaper. Ultimately the final decision is dependent on the user’s wants and needs.

Made up your mind? Click the buttons below to browse through the listings of each vehicle—all at their lowest prices— thanks to our used car partners BE FORWARD!

 

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Ngugi Karani

Ngugi Karani, from Nairobi Kenya, has been writing for JapanCarReviews since its inception. He believes that Africa needs better road transport for transformation. He writes on technology, development and cars. He is inspired by the spirit and passion of the African people to rise above all odds.

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