Honda Odyssey

Rank: 3
Curb weight: 4,378 pounds
NHTSA rollover:
NHTSA frontal:
NHTSA side:
IIHS frontal: Good
IIHS side: Good
SCORE: 57

2006 Honda Odyssey + click to enlarge | view slideshow >

Yes, it’s a minivan, but this purposeful people-hauler also happens to be one of the safest vehicles available. A stability control system, antilock brakes and side airbags are standard on the Alabama-built Odyssey. Also, the Odyssey has one up on many minivans, as the side-curtain airbags protect outboard occupants in all three rows.

Touring models also get adjustable pedals and Michelin PAX run-flat tires, which can help prevent the chance of a rollover due to tire failure, and a voice-recognition navigation system is available. The Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system unobtrusively shuts down three cylinders when cruising at a steady speed, making this Honda a very fuel-friendly choice.

Published on 6/08/06