2005 Honda Odyssey Review
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By John Rettie

Overview

When Honda introduced the second-generation Odyssey minivan in 1999 it was immediately considered the best minivan on the market. Buyers obviously felt the same way as it remained in high demand for a long time.

Honda has launched an all-new Odyssey for 2005. Instead of resting on its laurels, Honda has listened to its customers by adopting many of their suggested changes in its third generation Odyssey. A host of improvements should help put it back at the top of an ever-improving class.

Among them: improved car-like ride and handling, a more powerful and fuel efficient 255-horsepower V6 engine, and a clever seating system that can accommodate up to eight passengers. A new body structure is designed to improve safety, and the Odyssey comes standard with side curtain airbags, electronic stability control, and anti-lock brakes.

Model Lineup

The 2005 Honda Odyssey lineup now includes three models. All include the full complement of safety features such as curtain side airbags for all three rows of seats, anti-lock brakes, and vehicle stability assist with traction control.

The LX ($24,995) is the base model with manual sliding side doors, manual driver seat controls and manual air conditioning. It does come standard with power door locks with remote keyless entry, front and side power windows and 60/40 split fold-down rear seats. The air conditioning system includes an air-filtration system.

The EX ($27,995) adds power sliding doors, alloy wheels, tri-zone climate control, a stowable second-row PlusOne seat, in-dash CD changer, steering wheel audio controls, power driver seat controls and other items. If you want leather seats, the EX with Leather ($31,895) is the ticket. Additionally, this model includes the iVTEC engine with variable cylinder management (VCM), a power moonroof and heated front seats.

The Touring ($34,495) is designed more for empty nesters looking for a luxury minivan. Sounding more like the name of a sporty station wagon from Europe, the Touring model has a slightly stiffer suspension, run-flat tires, front and rear parking sensors, automatic tri-zone climate control, power tailgate, power adjustable pedals, upgraded sound system and 17 cupholders, in addition to the items included with the EX with leather model.