extensively stiffened for this heavier-duty application. Stiffer is better

in chassis development, allowing the suspension engineers to dial up the

desired blend of ride and handling without worrying about making the suspension

components compensate for chassis flex.

The Odyssey's blend is near the top of the heap--a firm but compliant

ride and nimble when nothing less than nimble will do.

The speed-sensitive power rack-and-pinion steering is light and precise--perhaps

a little lighter than we might prefer at around-town speeds, but with satisfying

feel on the highway.

We were particularly impressed with the Odyssey's composure in quick

maneuvers. Thanks to its relatively low curb weight, low roofline--almost

eight inches lower than a Plymouth Voyager, for example--and refined suspension

the Odyssey doesn't exhibit much rock and roll when the driver cranks the

wheel hard to avoid a problem.

Stopping is provided by four-wheel disc brakes, with antilock standard

for all models. Like the rest of the Odyssey's behavior, we found braking

to be well-controlled, especially when compared to larger minivans.

If there is one criticism of the Odyssey, it's in the area of power,

provided with a 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine from the Accord family.

With 140 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque, the engine is remarkably

efficient, and its one of the more refined fours in the business. But it

lacks the low-speed response of V6-powered minivans.

In day-in, day-out driving, the Odyssey offers more than adequate power.

Load it full of kids and cargo, however, and you might find yourself wishing

for a little more muscle.

But with EPA ratings of 21 mpg city, 26 highway, the Odyssey also lacks

the thirst of the V6 engines.