Acceleration

EX	Touring w/DVD, navigation	Class Average
6	6	5.4

Ample around town and when merging onto highways, even with a full complement of passengers. An EX did 8.3 sec 0-60 mph in our test. The transmission upshifts smoothly, but doesn't always downshift promptly in passing situations.

Fuel Economy

EX	Touring w/DVD, navigation	Class Average
4	4	4.2

In Consumer Guide testing, an EX averaged 16.0 mpg in city/highway driving that included gas-eating performance tests. Test Tourings averaged 16.3-16.9 mpg in city/highway use. Honda recommends regular-grade gas for all Odysseys. Note EPA fuel-economy estimates are slightly higher with the Variable Cylinder Management system. Honda should make it available on all Odysseys, not just the most-expensive models.

Ride Quality

EX	Touring w/DVD, navigation	Class Average
7	6	6.4

Taut, but comfortable over all but the roughest roads, where sharp bumps and highway expansion joints sometimes jab through--especially to rear-seat riders. Touring's optional run-flat tires have a still-firmer ride.

Steering/Handling/Braking

EX	Touring w/DVD, navigation	Class Average
6	6	5.2

Sharp, accurate steering. A firm suspension and stiff body structure combine for good road holding. Odyssey's tall build means noticeable body lean in fast turns, but grip and balance are nearly car-like. Stopping control is good even with a full passenger load.

Quietness

EX	Touring w/DVD, navigation	Class Average
6	6	6.3

No opportunity to compare under identical conditions a version with the noise-cancellation system vs. one without. But overall, Odyssey is among the quieter minivans. Engine noise is particularly well-subdued. Road noise is prevalent at highway speeds, especially with the run-flat tires. Third-row passengers hear some wind whistle around the tailgate that grows tiresome on long trips.

Controls

EX	Touring w/DVD, navigation	Class Average
6	6	6.2

Large, clearly marked main gauges. The transmission shift lever sprouts from the dashboard to the right of the steering wheel. It's easy to reach but obstructs some controls when in park. LX climate and audio controls are simple and plainly identified. EX, EX-L, and Touring have an abundance of buttons, switches, and more complicated control design that takes time to understand. The navigation unit is among the easier ones to master, simplified by the system's ability to recognize spoken city and street names when programming destinations.

Details

EX	Touring w/DVD, navigation	Class Average
6	6	5.3

Padded interior panels are at a premium, even in top-line versions. The grade of materials and assembly quality are top-notch, though one tester exhibited several squeaks and rattles from aft area.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

EX	Touring w/DVD, navigation	Class Average
8	8	7.5

Odyssey's seats are comfortable and supportive. Room is ample for large adults. A fine driving position is enhanced on Tourings by power-adjustable pedals. The available rearview camera and front and rear park assist help in close-quarters maneuvering. Otherwise, rear visibility is hindered by large headrests and thick roof pillars.

Room/Comfort (rear)

EX	Touring w/DVD, navigation	Class Average
8	8	7.6

Comfortable 2nd-row bucket seats have generous headroom and legroom. Available middle jump seat suits only children. The 3rd row has adult-size room, but seat suffers a short backrest and thin padding. Sliding doors open wide, and step-in height is modest. The 2nd-row seats don't slide forward enough for easy 3rd-row access, and the Touring's 2nd-row console eliminates center-walk-through convenience.

Cargo Room

EX	Touring w/DVD, navigation	Class Average
10	10	10

A deep well behind the 3rd-row seat swallows a surprising volume of cargo. Split 3rd row folds neatly into the floor. The 2nd-row seats flip, stow, and can be removed, but Odyssey doesn't match convenient fold-into-floor design available in the Chrysler Town & Country or Dodge Grand Caravan. Under-floor compartment adds extra storage but is not readily accessible. A power tailgate and household-type power outlet are nice touches but are limited to the top-line editions.

Value within Class

EX	Touring w/DVD, navigation	Class Average
9	7	7.1

Some mainstream minivan buyers might be put off by Odyssey's taut ride and by the daunting array of buttons and switches on top-line versions. Still, this minivan is a Best Buy for its blend of power, road manners, and versatility.

Total Score

EX	Touring w/DVD, navigation	Class Average
76	73	71.2

Scores for all Minivans

Low Score		62
Average Score		71
High Score		78