2021 Honda Odyssey gets approval from Keiichi Tsuchiya

Honda might enjoy a reputation for performance, but with the breadth of its model range, this image obviously isn’t going to apply to every single one. Take the Odyssey for instance. As a minivan, it has a relatively high center of gravity that doesn’t really lend itself well to high-speed cornering. 

It looks like an odd choice for the Drift King at first glance [Image: Keiichi Tsuchiya Facebook page]

That said, the Odyssey is probably the last thing you’ll have in mind for something as labor-intensive as drifting. By extension, it’s also a seemingly left-field choice for someone who does engage in this maneuver on a regular basis, namely professional race car driver Keiichi Tsuchiya who’s revered as the Drift King. But Tsuchiya’s Facebook post shows that the master has indeed taken delivery of a shiny new 2021 Honda Odyssey for all to see. 

While the vehicle in question is the same minivan available to everyone else in the Japanese market, it’s not the garden variety version (as far as we can see, anyway). According to Tsuchiya, this particular unit has been dressed up with a genuine Honda body kit. 

It seems Tsuchiya-san is also fond of dogs [Image: Keiichi Tsuchiya Facebook page]

“New Odyssey delivered today!! Moduro (sic) Specification Aero Full Option. I’m very satisfied with the comfort of riding, texture, and libability (sic)!!” the caption read. The man has a reputation to maintain after all, so a stock-looking minivan simply won’t cut it. 

But that’s not all. Apparently, this Odyssey is also outfitted with Honda’s Dog Series accessories, as shown by the distinctive paw mark on the center caps and key fob. Tsuchiya had no pictures showing the interior, so we’re going to presume that the guy is a fur parent (or is at least a dog lover at heart).

Will the Drift King bring his latest purchase to the track anytime soon?  

The Japanese-market Honda Odyssey is currently on its fifth generation, wearing the second facelift that came out in 2020. Carrying up to eight passengers is a breeze with its two engine options, one a 2.4-liter i-VTEC engine cranking up 185 horsepower and 235 Nm of torque, the other a 2.0-liter hybrid power plant rated at 181 horsepower and 315 Nm of torque. Front-wheel-drive is standard, with a four-wheel drivetrain available.

It’s not difficult to imagine the Drift King driving a more sedate car than the track monsters he’s used to for a change. Even someone of his talent needs an occasional break from the smell of burning rubber. Then again, that didn’t really stop him from whipping a fourth-generation Odyssey around the circuit a decade ago. Maybe he’ll be inspired to take his new toy out on the bitumen one of these days.  

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