than in larger, V6-powered minivans.
Load the van with people and their belongings, however, and one might wish for more
horsepower. The 4-cyl. engine begins to sound a little busy in climbing steep hills or
pushed hard for passing.
Likewise, the Odyssey is available only with an electronically controlled 4-speed
automatic transmisison, also used in the Accord. The very smooth transmission contains
a system of sensors and computers--called Grade Logic--that adapts shifting to driving
conditions.
The Odyssey also features the Accord's sophisticated all-independent suspension
system. All Honda cars and now its minivan have a double wishbone suspension, instead
of the more common and less expensive MacPherson struts. The advantage is that
undesirable wheel movements in cornering are minimized, and the handling responses are
more precise.
Steering light, precise and responsive, and the tilt-adjustable column allows the
driver to compensate for the wheel's rather flat angle, which is mildly reminiscent of the old Volkswagen microbus.
Parking is easy with the Odyssey's small turning radius. Braking, supplied by 4-wheel discs with antilock as standard equipment, is very good. Next Page