This One-Off Honda Odyssey Defies the “Boring Minivan” Label with a Civic Type R Heart
While minivans have long been seen as bland, family-oriented people haulers, this Honda Odyssey proves otherwise. It features several Type R modifications — including an engine swap sourced from one of the most celebrated enthusiast cars of all time, the Civic Type R.
Built by Bisi Ezerioha and Jordan Distributors, Inc., this Odyssey packs a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four from Honda's renowned K20 engine family . In its latest form, the K20C1 is rated at up to 315 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, roughly 35 hp more than the Odyssey's factory V6.
Swapping Family Duty for Performance DNA
Despite rivals like the Toyota Sienna and Chrysler Pacifica offering all-wheel drive (AWD) for improved traction and power distribution, the Odyssey remains front-wheel drive. Interestingly, though, that aligns perfectly with the Civic Type R's ethos — a car that's long proven front-wheel-drive platforms can deliver outstanding performance too.
In addition to the engine swap, this Honda minivan also receives a six-speed manual transmission in place of the standard nine-speed automatic. It's a fitting choice, as every Civic Type R has always come with a stick. Sure, it won't match the Civic Type R hatchback's precision on the track, but that's not the point. This build gives the Odyssey a whole new personality, transforming it from a humble family hauler into something far more spirited.
That makeover is matched by a series of cosmetic upgrades, most notably a centrally mounted triple exhaust inspired by the last two generations of the Civic Type R — the aggressive FK8 and the more mature FL5. Finishing touches include Type R badging and Honda's signature red logo, a mark traditionally reserved for the brand's most performance-focused, track-ready models.
The Type R-inspired Honda Odyssey is currently on display at the 2025 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, standing alongside other insane builds like a classic Toyota Land Cruiser fitted with a modern twin-turbo V6 from the Tundra. The show runs until November 7.
