GMC
Safari
Honda
Odyssey
GMC Safari vs Honda Odyssey: 2024 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Honda Odyssey comes out ahead of the GMC Safari on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Safari
Overall
Sentiment is overwhelmingly positive regarding the vehicle's core utility, durability, and practicality, but this is heavily tempered by the expectation of ongoing mechanical issues and the need for owner maintenance. The platform is celebrated for its "unparalleled" maximum cargo space, body-on-frame construction, and legendary longevity of its 4.3L V6 engine, with multiple reports of units exceeding 270,000 km (168,000 miles) and one reaching 425,000 miles with normal maintenance. Owners deeply appreciate its versatility for camping, hauling, and as a dependable work vehicle.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to designate a specific model year or trim as "best." The AWD model is frequently mentioned as a desirable configuration for its utility in snow and off-road conditions, despite noted reliability concerns. The 4.3L V6 engine is universally acknowledged as the reliable heart of the vehicle.
Known issues
- ⚠Transmission problems (slipping, failure to shift, shuddering at speed) - very frequent. Electrical system gremlins (parasitic battery drain, inconsistent interior lights/doors, non-functional accessories, turn signal malfunctions) - very f…
Odyssey
Overall
The sentiment is strongly positive regarding the Odyssey's core attributes of practicality, comfort, and long-term reliability, particularly for family transportation. It is consistently praised for its spacious interior, smooth driving dynamics compared to SUVs, and utility as a cargo hauler. However, owner sentiment is heavily qualified by generation-specific mechanical concerns.
Best version to buy
For the fifth generation (2018+), models from 2020 onward are preferred as the more reliable 10-speed automatic transmission became standard across all trims. For the 2018-2019 model years, the Touring and Elite trims are specifically recommended as they came equipped with the 10-speed, avoiding the problematic 9-speed ZF transmission found in lower trims.
Known issues
- ⚠• **VCM (Variable Cylinder Management) system problems**: Causes excessive oil consumption, fouled spark plugs, and premature piston ring wear leading to engine damage. Very frequent mention for 2005-2017 models.
The verdict
The Honda Odyssey is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the GMC Safari, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the GMC Safari is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the GMC Safari or the Honda Odyssey?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the GMC Safari and the Honda Odyssey. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the GMC Safari or the Honda Odyssey?
Data on family-specific factors like cargo space is limited for one or both models, but based on available reports, both are positioned as practical daily drivers. Check the specs table above for seating and body type.
Which has better fuel economy, the GMC Safari or the Honda Odyssey?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the GMC Safari or the Honda Odyssey?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Honda Odyssey than the GMC Safari. See the known issues comparison above.