2006 Honda Odyssey Model Update

An Odyssey Worth Taking

Honda's minivan is one of the best in a crowded and competitive field.

The Honda Odyssey remains a top choice among minivans, with a level of performance and sophistication few can match. Its smooth, powerful V6, refined ride and versatile interior combine to offer a package that is much more practical and enjoyable than most SUVs.

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Modest changes for 2006 — the second year of the current generation — include XM satellite radio functionality now being standard on the upscale Touring version, and a stand-alone DVD entertainment system a new option on the EX-L model (previously, both were bundled with a navigation system). A leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob have been added to EX-L models, while tether anchors for child seats are now included on third-row outboard seats across the line.

The Honda Odyssey is rated with better than average reliability by Consumer Reports. It received five out of five stars on National Highway Traffic Safety Administration front and side-impact crash tests and four out of five stars on the rollover test.

The standard 3.5-liter V6 engine employs Honda’s VTEC technology to deliver 244 hp. EX-L and Touring models add Variable Cylinder Management, in which half of the cylinders shut down at cruising speeds to boost fuel efficiency. This allows 20 mpg city/28 mpg highway, versus 19 mpg city/25 mpg highway for the standard V6.

The upgraded engine also includes an Active Control Engine Mount System and Active Noise Control technology to help reduce noise and vibrations. A sophisticated five-speed automatic transmission channels power to the front wheels on all models.

As with most Hondas, handling, steering and braking are crisp and make driving the Odyssey a pleasure. The engine has plenty of power for overtaking vehicles on the highway as well as hauling lots of people and stuff. But the transmission can be slow to downshift at times.

Tall windows, high seating and a low dashboard make for excellent outward visibility. The Odyssey almost feels like a sedan behind the wheel.

As expected with a family-oriented vehicle, the Odyssey offers a long list of standard safety features, including stability and traction control, four-wheel antilock disc brakes, front airbags as well as front-side and side-curtain airbags that deploy early when sensors detect an imminent rollover.

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While the Toyota Sienna offers more gadgets and the Nissan Quest has more dynamic styling, the Odyssey’s roomy, flexible and well-thought-out interior is packed with standard amenities. These include seven-passenger seating, an AM/FM/CD stereo, front and rear air-conditioning, cruise control, power door locks, mirrors and windows, keyless entry, a storage compartment in the floor, a tilt-adjusting steering wheel and a third row that folds flat into the floor. Unlike older minivans, windows in the rear sliding doors roll up and down.

EX and EX-L trim levels offer eight-passenger seating with an extra jump seat in the second row. Other models have a removable storage bin instead.

The third row can comfortably accommodate two adults or three kids, thanks to the second row's ability to slide forward, which also eases ingress and egress. Encroaching side roof panels are the only impingement likely to create discomfort for larger outboard third-row passengers.

A $1,600 rear DVD entertainment system is available on EX-L models (standard on Touring models), and a $2,200 touch-screen navigation system that incorporates voice recognition and a rearview video camera is available on EX-L and Touring models, but only when bundled with the DVD entertainment system.

There are no stand-alone options, but some items offered on higher trim levels can be ordered as dealer-installed accessories, such as a six-disc in-dash CD changer ($739) and backup sensors ($598). Other notable accessories include a security system ($199), a rear cargo floor board ($298) that converts to a removable table with a separate leg kit ($66), various roof attachments and fog lights ($299).