The Honda Odyssey cuts a curvy profile, and its updated front end looks similar to the sedan. Large headlights flank its big grille, which is slightly more angular for 2008. The air intake in the lower front fascia is also slightly larger and more rectangular in shape on the 2008 models. The hood is sculpted with curves that lead naturally back to the windshield and emphasize the big fender flares. Honda has not hidden the sliding door channels at the base of the window but left them partially obscured by a crease that runs the length of the vehicle.

All models come with two sliding doors, manually operated on the LX and electrically operated on all other models. The power windows in each of the side doors can be opened in the same fashion as in a car. The tailgate is electrically operated in the top-of-the-line Honda Odyssey Touring. We found the power doors seemed a bit reluctant to operate at times and were less responsive to key fob commands than were the sliding doors on the .

The Odyssey boasts Honda's Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure. The vehicle's crush zones have been engineered to provide good protection for occupants while minimizing damage in a collision with smaller vehicles and pedestrians. Its body structure is rigid, which contributes to crisp handling and a smooth ride. A low drag coefficient helps improve fuel economy and high-speed stability.