2005 Honday Odyssey Review
One of the biggest events in automotive history was when Honda finally created their own platform for SUV's. For years Honda and Acura relied on Isuzu products for their SUV's platforms: creating the now deceased Passport, and SLX (Acura), as a barter; Isuzu borrowed the Odyssey platform in order to build their own Oasis.
The Odyssey uses a tweaked version of the Accord's platform (not uncommon in the automotive world; for many mini-vans use car platforms, and so do cross-over vehicles); although with some other modifications this Accord turns into an Odyssey. Due to Honda's famous reputation for reliability; as well as its reputation for durability: all have contributed in making this mini-van one of the most popular around.
The 2005 model was the first year for the newly redesigned Odyssey. The previous model (from 1999-2004) made this mini-van one of the best selling in the industry. Good looks (relative terms, since most people would agree mini-vans aren't very attractive), and Honda reputation made this car a class leader hands down. Even the interior isn't bad looking considering it's a mini-van. Interior/exterior is worthy of any Honda product, and worthy of its reputation for building reasonably good looking cars at affordable prices. Most people who are only interested in a roomy interior, as well as reliability; will agree this is as good as it gets. Unlike cars and SUV's, there just aren't too many mini-vans that cost upwards of $50,000. The Mercedes R model is as close as it gets to a mini-van (even though its not a mini-van, but more of a cross-over), and only costs around $60,000 fully loaded. This also gives you an idea of just what a bad image mini-vans have for being the "Ugly ducklings" of the automotive world, but this Honda looks as good as any other product in its class.
For 2005, three models were offered: LX, EX, and EX touring model. Of course the EX touring is the most expensive of the three, and brand new it cost well into the 30's mark: probably around $32-$34,000 fully loaded. No small change for a car you have to live with for a good while, and for many out there only interested in aesthetics, 3-5 years is a bit longer than most would want. All three models come with a standard V6, and one thing that can be said about mini-vans without very little doubt is: they handle better than many SUV's; that's because they are lower to the ground than many SUV's: hence affording them a little bit better performance.
This cars handles quite good. Honda has always claimed to be one of the most Euro of the Japanese brands, and this car shows evidence of that claim. Driving impressions are quite good; plus Honda's "Variable Cylinder Management," which helps this car get pretty good gas mileage considering its size: that's because it shuts off 3 cylinders when called for, making the vehicle more economical than many others in its class. . .all this plus side impact airbags, and an array of other standard equipment, plus some optional, make this car one of the best amongst all the mini-vans.
