The introduction of the new Honda Odyssey in 2005 came at an interesting time in the automotive market. Many would-be family van buyers were leaving the segment and opting instead to purchase an SUV, or the suddenly fashionable Crossover vehicles. By offering more interior seating space than their 5 seat predecessors, today's SUV is favored by many over what was once the dominant people mover throughout most of the 80's-90's and early into the new millennium.

Honda, however, is never one to shy away from unconventional thinking and the Odyssey continues to succeed while other vans such as the Ford Freestar have already packed it in.

The Odyssey is so good in fact, it is now considered by many to be the measuring stick by which all family vans are compared and is in my opinion, one of the main reasons why the family van market will continue for many years to come.

Propelling the Honda Odyssey is a 3.5-liter 24-valve SOHC V-6 engine that produces 244 hp @ 5750 rpm and 240 lb.-ft. of torque @ 5000 rpm. Drive-by-wire technology provides precise contact between driver and engine. Requests for more power are flawlessly executed, even when driving in stop and go traffic.

Honda's unique Variable Cylinder Management system, (VCM) is standard equipment on the top line EX-L and Touring models. By controlling the number of cylinders used at any given moment, VCM improves fuel mileage without sacrificing performance.

Active control engine mounts, (ACM) and active noise control, (ANC) assure a quiet running engine and passenger cabin. The Odyssey V-6 engine meets California's tough LEV2-ULEV criteria as well as the Federal Tier 2-Bin 5 emission requirements.

A 5-speed automatic transmission provides smooth gear changes as direct control shifting works in conjunction with the drive-by-wire throttle system.

Brakes are power assisted 4-wheel disc with ABS. Alloy wheels are standard on all but the base LX model, with all-season 235/65 R16 tires at every corner. The top-of-the-line Touring model showcases new Michelin PAX System Run-Flat tires for added safety and convenience.

Steering and suspension design have always been a specialty of Honda and the Odyssey is no exception. The MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link double wishbone rear suspension provide quick reflexes and an excellent ride for a vehicle weighing in excess of 4,500 lbs.

Inside, the 2006 Honda Odyssey offers excellent ergonomics and a long list of standard equipment.

Front seats are plush and comfortable. Long cushion length provides excellent support for legs and deep side bolsters hold both driver and passenger firmly in place.

A unique stowable 2nd row plus one seat accommodates an additional person, bringing the total number of available occupants to eight. When the stowable seat is in the upright position, a smartly designed rotating storage compartment is accessible by both front and 2nd row passengers.

Adding to the convenience of the interior, the mid seats slide forward and backward up to a maximum of 10 inches, or can be removed completely. A fold and flip option makes getting in and out of the 3rd row seat easy. And for those times when additional storage is needed, the One-Motion 60/40 split 3rd row Magic Seat tucks neatly out of the way.

The Honda Odyssey offers a full compliment of easy to read gauges, an excellent HVAC system and a high console mounted gear lever. A tri-zone automatic climate control system is standard on all but the base LX model.

The optional voice activated, 8" Navigation system employs human voice technology for ease of recognition. It also provides a truly intelligent freeway interchange split screen mode, taking away much of stress associated with navigating unfamiliar terrain. When not in use, the DVD based navigation screen flips and folds out of sight.

Power windows, mirrors, locks, tilt steering and cruise control are all standard equipment. So to are adjustable pedals, 15 cup holders, (17 in Touring) map lights, (all rows) 3- 12 volt power outlets, rear seat heater ducts and floor mats.

Optional items include such fun to use gadgets as a 9" fold-down DVD screen with wireless headsets. The Touring model adds a 360-watt AM/FM/6-disc in-dash CD player with seven speakers including a subwoofer and XM Satellite Radio.

Despite rumors to the contrary, the family van is alive and well. Few vehicles offer the space and functionality of a van, and as a practical family hauler, it's hard to beat. The Odyssey provides great handling, excellent fuel economy and all-around good looks, demonstrating why it sets the standard as #1 in this segment.

2006 Honda Odyssey
Description:	Full-size Passenger Van
Model options:	LX, EX, EX-L, Touring
Wheelbase:	118.1 inches
Overall length:	201 inches
Engine size:	3.5L 24-valve SOHC VTEC
Transmission:	5-speed automatic
Steering:	Power-assisted rack and pinion
Braking:	Power 4-wheel disc, 4-wheel ABS
Air bags:	2 (front)
Fuel mileage city/hwy:	LX and EX- 19/25 EX-L and Touring- 20/28
MSRP:	$ 39,995- $ 44,710