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I bought one of the first Chevy Astro minivans in the Pacific Northwest — what a colossal mistake. I followed the Astro with a first generation Dodge Caravan. I loathed that rolling repair bill even more than the awful Astro. Except for all the times they stranded her; my wife liked mini vans. Our polarized viewpoints were often fractious.
Given my background, the fact that I was thoroughly impressed with the 2007 Honda Odyssey Touring Edition minivan says much more about the Odyssey’s quality than my ability to forgive and forget. In all fairness, subsequent Astro and Caravan models were huge improvements over the originals.
If Honda had joined the minivan ranks early on, our family might still be driving one. We gave up a first generation Honda Accord (one of the best vehicles I’ve ever owned) for the roomier Astro. The quality gap between the two brands was enormous.
Quality construction and engineering excellence are still key factors in the success of the Honda Odyssey. It’s no secret that the Odyssey is the chief benchmark for all minivan competitors. Excitement isn’t a reason to buy an Odyssey, but practicality, comfort, convenience and flexibility (for both passengers and cargo) are.
The 2007 Honda Odyssey is little changed from the 2006 models. A couple new colors, tilt and telescopic steering column, tire pressure monitoring system and a central coin holder are about it.
Many vehicles (especially SUVs) claim to have seven-passenger capacity, but they shy away from specifying size limitations. I’m six-two and 200 pounds, yet I fit comfortably in every Odyssey seat without compromising the seats in front or behind. Front legroom is near stretch-out and second and third row room is outstanding.
Seating configurations are many. The 60/40 split third row stows flat into the floor. When the third row is up the behind-seat cargo capacity is excellent. The second row Captains chairs fold for storage and recline for comfort. The center console is easily removable. The right side second row seat can be moved to the center for cargo versatility.
Storage bins, pockets and cup holders abound. The front doors have dual oversized bins. The most unique storage area is the large lockable bin in the floor between the first and second rows. The bin has a segmented “Lazy Susan” feature for easy access from either row.
Our Touring Edition had the full compliment of power doors — one on each side and the rear liftgate. It also had the full DVD, CD, XM, AM-FM entertainment system, navigation system, backup camera, rear HVAC controls, seatback storage pockets and a handy convex mirror for keeping tabs on younger passengers. All it lacks for long trips is a bathroom.
Driving the Honda Odyssey is about as car-like as you can get in a minivan. The 3.5L aluminum V-6 produces 244 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. The 5-speed automatic is smooth and well matched to the engine. Our mixed driving conditions fuel economy fell short of the stated 19/26 EPA estimate, but that’s a common experience.
Whines: There really isn’t much to fault about the Odyssey. A larger sunroof would be nice. Power adjustable lumbar support (instead of the driver-only manual lever) for both front seats would fit the overall luxury/comfort level of the Touring Edition.
Bottom Line: If your family needs a minivan you can’t go wrong with the 2007 Honda Odyssey. Until other manufacturers develop something superior, the Honda Odyssey is the king of mini vans. | 
