As one would expect of a vehicle developed from a passenger car platform, the Odysseyoffers the most car-like ride and handling of any minivan on the market. However, this is more than an Accord with a minivan body. Honda's chassis team engineered additional structural reinforcements into the basic Accord unitbody structure, and stretched the wheelbase by 4.5 in., with benefits to both ride quality and responsiveness. The Odyssey offers only one engine, a 140-hp 2.2-liter single overhead cam 16-valve 4-cyl. engine that's a variation on the basic Accord engine. No V6 is offered, even though one is available in the Accord. Under most circumstances, the engine operates smoothly and quietly. One won't suffer whiplash with the acceleration from the engine, with a 0-to-60 mph time of 12 seconds. But for around-town driving, the power and acceleration are adequate, and, with an EPA mileage rating of 20 mpg city and 24 mpg highway, fuel stops will be less frequent 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.
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