Families driving the latest Honda Odyssey might soon find themselves able to stream shows like Orange is the New Black along with classic Disney favorites. This addition will depend on whether Honda finalizes a deal to integrate Netflix streaming into its newly designed 2018 minivan and future models.
Davis Adams, Honda’s public relations manager for the west coast, has revealed that the company is in discussions to include Netflix as part of the Odyssey’s optional rear entertainment system. Securing this partnership would make Honda the pioneer among automakers to offer access to the popular streaming service inside a vehicle.
This development could be significant. Netflix, which has seen remarkable growth, recently surpassed 100 million subscribers worldwide. The platform continues to create a variety of compelling original series such as Stranger Things and Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, while heavily investing in stand-up comedy, featuring performances by artists like Dave Chappelle, Louis C.K., and Amy Schumer.
With a playful nod to the term “Netflix and Chill,” it may ironically suit what has classically been seen as Honda’s least glamorous vehicle, particularly after the kids have gone to bed.
During a recent test drive on the Big Island of Hawaii, I explored the multitude of features the 2018 Odyssey has to offer. It truly has everything you might need—except maybe a pint of Haagen-Dazs and some chips. The thoroughly revamped 2018 Odyssey will provide access to various streaming content from cable, satellite, and radio networks like Epix, PBS Kids, and Spotify at its showroom debut in late May.
“As we forge more agreements with streaming services, the system will keep evolving,” Adams stated.
Historically, cars were limited to the entertainment units that they came with—think old 8-track players or dusty CD slots—but the Odyssey stands out as the first Honda to feature over-the-air upgrades for its onboard infotainment systems. This upgrade operates on a new Honda-developed, Android-based operating system, managed through a user-friendly Display Audio color touchscreen located in the dashboard. The smartphone-like, eight-inch screen allows users to manage, sort, or hide apps, and customers can download software updates over any WiFi connection, via a newly integrated AT&T 4G LTE link, or through a USB stick.
“The system is designed to stay current and operates much faster than necessary,” Adams remarked. Regarding updates, “[They] can be implemented overnight.”
The Display Audio feature will gradually be introduced across Honda’s vehicle lineup. Unlike Tesla models, Hondas that include the new operating system will focus on app and infotainment upgrades and will not have the capability to access the Onboard Diagnostic System (OBD) for over-the-air modifications related to powertrain controls, safety functions, or semi-autonomous driving capabilities.
The Odyssey’s onboard Wi-Fi connection can support up to seven devices, allowing users to stream content to the ten-inch, ceiling-mounted rear entertainment screen, alongside speakers directly from Android smartphones, including through personal hotspots and data plans. This video screen supports an HDMI connection for devices like Apple TV or Roku, features a 115-volt power outlet, and includes a CD/DVD/Blu-Ray player. Similar to other vehicles from manufacturers like Audi to Chevrolet, owners will incur a monthly subscription fee for their Wi-Fi connection and related services. However, Honda is offering a complimentary 90-day Wi-Fi trial for new Odyssey buyers.
Before envisioning a cacophony of Taylor Swift at top volume, Adams stressed that parents will maintain control. While children and other passengers can suggest trip destinations from their smartphones to the front-row screen, they cannot adjust the audio volume from the back seats, and parents hold the authority to veto any unplanned stops, such as at Dave and Busters.
“Ultimately, the parent has authority over everything,” Davis explained. “A child can make suggestions, but parental decisions are final.”
Teenagers with a fresh driver’s license may present a different scenario. Imagine a minivan with more space than some apartments in Manhattan, fully outfitted with streaming films, gaming consoles, love songs, and Honda’s “magic” disappearing third-row seats.
“Can you imagine giving your teenager the freedom to roam in that?” Adams said with a grin.
I suspect most parents would sooner hand over the keys to their Corvette than take that chance.
Lawrence Ulrich, The Drive’s chief auto critic, is an award-winning auto journalist and former chief auto critic for The New York Times and Detroit Free Press. The Detroit native and Brooklyn resident owns a struggling ’93 Mazda RX-7 R1, which he may be looking to rehome. You can contact him at lawrence@thedrive.com
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