My first impression of this vehicle starts with the stylish hood that sweeps down towards the grille. The headlights are angled up and back giving the profile a sculpted look. Not only does it provide an exclusive appearance, but also adds increased visibility for third-row passengers.
Very nice interior, everything laid out nicely. So many bells and whistles you almost would want to run through a checklist before driving. Eight passengers seating with a total passenger volume of 4887 litres, and all those passengers get thirsty, so Honda put in 15 cup holders. The third row is a one-motion 60/40 split Magic seat that can accommodate three passengers and still leave 1087 litres of cargo volume. The second row is a three-mode seating with fold down center console.
Driver and front passenger seats are captain’s chairs that are very comfortable. My tester included a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, channel selector, cruise control, and hands-free telephone button. The instrument panel is easier to read, thanks to little tweaks by the engineers. Satellite-linked Navigation screen with trilingual voice recognition, 3D map, and FM traffic is also available that uses GPS technology and a 60GB hard drive based operating system that provides the driver with turn by turn voice guidance to their chosen destination. The screen also is used for the backup camera that offers three different views, Normal view, wide angle, and top down. Both side sliding doors open automatically via the key fob or a switch on the dash. A 550 watt AM/FM/CD audio system with MP3/Windows Media audio playback and 11 speakers including a subwoofer is standard the EX-L.
The i-MID or intelligent Multi-information Display can display your incoming text messages while the vehicle is in park and also read out too you while driving. I had one driving home late one night, and it said “your dinner is in the garbage, have a nice day,” I think that must have been a glitch. The available rear entertainment system features a huge 16.2-inch screen that includes two wireless headsets with personal surround sound. The Honda Odyssey also features an in-car vacuum system called the HondaVac. It comes complete with a replaceable filter, canister bag, nozzle accessories, and a hose that can reach the front seats. So mothers everywhere can not only drive the family to weekend activities but once there can do the vacuuming. I feel an email coming on.
Safety is paramount with mini-van owners; the Odyssey has a blind spot information system with cross traffic monitor, vehicle stability assist, side curtain airbags, front knee airbags and active front seat head restraints that are designed to help reduce neck injury in the event of a rear collision. There are also five lower anchors and tethers for children. Four-wheel anti-lock brakes and tire pressure monitoring system is also standard. An available lane departure warning system that utilizes onboard cameras to determine if you’re drifting too far out of your lane without using your turn signal.
The engine is a 3.5 litre, 24 valve, SOHC, i-VTEC V6 that produces 280 hp and 250 lb-ft of torque. The engines variable cylinder management system allows the engine to run on three, four or six cylinders depending on the requirements. All models receive a 10-speed automatic transmission. The combination makes the drive that much more comfortable and enjoyable.
