Leaning Odyssey for Upcoming Purchase
I recently test drove both and agree with much of what been said on here. The Odyssey seems smaller in the back row, has a less interesting infotainment system, and lacks Stow and Go. The Pacifica has a great infotainment system, feels premium in the front, and has the second row that can lean back while the front seats move forward to gain access to the back with a car seat. I also like that it has adaptive cruise control at lower speeds, something the Odyssey lacks. On the other hand, for a family with three car seats and possibly another one in the future, the Odyssey is clearly better at car seats and flexibility. It has 5 front LATCH attachments and six rear attachments, so you could have a car seat in every available seat if needed. I also like the flexibility of the magic slide seats vs the stow and go. But here are the biggest reasons I am leaning Honda:
First, I am frustrated that Chrysler is no longer ordering the advanced safety tech on lower trims. I have a specific combination with the tow package I want, but I can't order it anymore. What kind of company just stops adding safety features to lower trims? I can't link to the thread discussing this issue because of my post count, but you can search on this forum "advanced-safetytec-group-not-available-any-more-new-orders." This is exactly opposite of what Honda did by making the advanced safety features available starting at the EX trim.
Second, I would like to use the LTE service, but it is not available. Somehow Chrysler has managed to mess this up also. I can't link to the thread, but you can search "LTE wifi is NOT available on 2018 Pacifica for subscription yet."
Third, the Pacifica seems to have many safety and reliability complaints already. The 2017 has 169 complaints on NHSTA. The 2018 only has 5, but it is so recently released not much time has passed to earn them. The 2018 Odyssey only has 15 complaints, and it has been around long enough to have a high number if they were coming.
Fourth, I noticed the Honda Odyssey passed the passenger side small front overlap test by the IIHS. The Pacifica wasn't tested, but I am not sure why. The Honda also scored great on the LATCH system while the Pacifica scored terribly.
I could overlook some of these issues, but Chrysler seems either incompetent or uncaring toward their customers. That is what the 2018 LTE debacle and no longer allowing ordering or the advanced safety tech package on lower trims says to me. It doesn't seem like a company I trust to buy a car from.
