Review

The Odyssey will appeal to buyers who want the space, utility, and comfort of a minivan, but don't want to drive something that wheezes onto the highway like a sickly cow or incinerates fuel like an F-16 on afterburner. It's also aimed at people who are honest with themselves about their driving needs: they don't need an SUV; they don't need a minivan that sort of looks like an SUV (GM's latest offerings); and they don't need a minivan with sporting pretensions (Nissan Quest). For those who want a quick, versatile hauler that drives like a car and holds its value better than some currencies, the Odyssey is the best choice. Only the Toyota Sienna and Chrysler Town & Country approach the Odyssey's level of refinement and all-around goodness, but they aren't quite as rich in features, power, or pizzazz.

As the BMW 3 Series is to small luxury cars, so the Odyssey is to minivans--it's the benchmark vehicle. And in its sophomore year, the third-generation model is still at the head of the class.

What's HOT:

+ Lux-grade refinement, features

+ A carlike driving experience

+ Variable Cylinder Management for 28 highway mpg

What's NOT:

- No all-wheel drive

- No fold-flat second row

- Run-flat tires on Touring only

Completely redesigned for 2005, the 2006 Odyssey carries over without significant changes.

The Touring edition with navigation sets out to forge new territory: the ultra-luxe minivan. To that end, it includes a nav system, rearview backup camera, run-flat tires, and the iVTEC engine with cylinder disengagement. However, you can get the thrifty-yet-powerful motor in the EX edition, too--if you opt for the leather interior.