size, the Odyssey is similar to the standard Dodge Caravan but is much smaller than

the Grand Caravan. It is somewhat smaller than the Mercury Villager/Nissan Quest, more

on par with the Toyota Previa.

Because it is built on the Accord chassis, the Odyssey has a low step-in to make entry

and exit a snap. Drivers who test drive some of the taller minivans will be pleasantly

surprised by this attribute. In addition, the extra-wide hinged doors make entry and

exit easy as well.

As sedan drivers know, four doors are extremely useful. After driving a van with four

doors, one would be reluctant to go back to the more traditional configuration of a

single sliding door on one side and two front hinged doors. The four doors make it

convenient to stash a briefcase, hang laundry from the dry cleaners, install child

safety seats and load people away from the street.

On the other hand, sliding doors may be preferable in tight parking spots at the

grocery store, eliminating the chance of whacking another vehicle with the door. Then

again, when passengers are debarking from the left side of the vehicle, a sedan-type

door gives other drivers a warning that someone is about to emerge. That's not true of

a sliding door.

As one would expect, the fit and finish of the Odyssey is outstanding. Materials in

our test van were of exceptional quality. Interior and exterior pieces joined

perfectly together, and paint quality was excellent.