The Honda that’s more luxurious than a Toyota (and it’s not an Acura)

Japanese automakers are renowned for producing some of the most dependable and value-based vehicles on the market. Honda and Toyota are prime examples of reliable japan-made cars, with Acura and Lexus acting as their luxury counterparts.

While Lexus is widely available around the globe, Acura primarily exists in America. In other parts of the world, there are premium cars that wear the silver H badge, such as the Honda Elysion.

The Honda Elysion is Honda’s most luxurious vehicle, but it’s only available in China as a collaboration with Dongfeng Motor Group. Though there is no legal way to get one in America yet, there could be some hitting the road in five years.

The Honda Elysion is the brand’s most luxurious car

Beginning life in 2004, the Honda Elysion was an MPV exclusively for the Japanese domestic market (JDM). It was introduced to compete with Toyota’s Alphard, another JDM people carrier. Honda then offered the Elysion in China in 2012, and a model refresh followed three years later, before its latest update in 2019. Ironically, this former JDM car is now only available in China.

At first glance, this may look like a Honda Odyssey with extra bling. Though it’s based on the Odyssey platform, the Elysion is designed with luxury in mind. A more efficient and powerful hybrid engine paired with an electric continuously variable transmission was introduced as part of the 2019 facelift, bringing a refined ride to occupants.

2024 Honda Elysion Specifications

The Honda Elysion’s executive interior

Dongfeng Honda

An exquisite interior is what sets the Elysion apart from the Odyssey. While it benefits from the same interior space, captain’s chairs in the second row transform this people carrier into a business-class lounge on wheels fit for VIPs.

Cushioned headrests, sumptuous quilted leather and elevating footrests treat every traveler like royalty. Matching quilted leather door panels and wood grain inserts on the dashboard complete the high-end interior. For true customization, interior leather is available in red, white, or black.

Futuristic features of the Elysion

Dongfeng Honda

Advanced technology further elevates the plush cabin in the Elysion. A digital display behind the steering wheel shows important driving information to the driver, and handy buttons on the multi-function wheel make changing the view safer. Next to this, a large touchscreen display acts as a command center for multimedia, including Android Auto and Apple CarPlay for downloading your favorite apps.

On top of this, the Elysion features Honda Sensing, bringing adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, lane-keep assist, and a multi-view camera. Plus, it uses the latest version of Honda Connect 3.0, which allows more control and security of the vehicle via a smartphone. Notable features include:

• Geo-fencing alerts when the car leaves a predetermined zone
• Find my car
• Car status including fuel levels
• Remote functions like start/stop and air conditioning
• Speed alerts when other people drive the vehicle

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What is the difference between the Honda Elysion and Odyssey?

Honda

We’ve touched on this already throughout this post, but there are clear differences between the Honda Odyssey and the Elysion. The current Elysion is based on the fifth-generation Odyssey, which means they have a lot in common, like a similar exterior shape and roomy cabin. The Odyssey is only available with a 3.5-liter V6 engine and up to eight seats, compared to the gentle hybrid in the seven-seat Elysion.

That said, the Elysion has a more luxurious exterior appearance, with bigger alloy wheels and an imposing front grille. Inside, it is covered with high-quality materials and boasts advanced features and enhanced security measures. In essence, the Odyssey is made for families with kids; the Elysion is made for executive travel and business use.

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Is the Honda Elysion available in the US?

Unfortunately, the Honda Elysion has never been available in the US. It was originally exclusive to Japan, before switching to China-only, so the only way to see an Elysion in the US would be to import it. However, there are rules that prevent that too. For one, the law states an import must be at least 25 years old, which voids the Elysion since it was first produced in 2004. Any attempt to import one now would be considered illegal.

Another consideration is whether it will be worth it. There’s no telling if an Elysion will hold value like a Honda Pilot, or if it will suffer brutal depreciation like electric vehicles. By the time the vehicle is eligible for import, a first-generation example might be worthless.