Overview:
This weeks test car is the Honda Odyssey EX Mini Van or Special Purpose class vehicle. Alaska Airlines north to Portland, Oregon where I picked up this very capable and convenient vehicle for the purpose intended. I would be carrying a few adults and a small child and a smaller dog. This mini van is perfect for that application.
I spend some time on a ranch in southern Oregon where I do a little business, write, cut fire wood, write, horseback ride and write more. When it’s time to pick up a ton or two of hay for the horses and longhorn cattle the Dodge Dualee is necessary. But running into town with seating for 7, this mini van is just the ticket.
Don’t you wish you could have one of everything? It’s tough to make two vehicles, most of us have, fit every need. And then there is your budget to buy and operate two vehicles. That is the primary reason why I remind folks about the economy of Mini Vans vs. SUV’s that is significant. The reason for the higher cost of owning an SUV is the heavy, energy consuming 4-wheel drive apparatus. And ironically the 4-wheel drive will be used in only 5% of the vehicles in this class.
I took the Applegate Trail south to Eugene, a short one and a half hours from Portland on I-5. The countryside is beautiful this time of year. Spring is great most places but the greenery is breathtaking and gives you a peace with nature.
Handling & Performance:
This is a great road car and for the most part is quiet and comfortable.
Styling:
Sleek designs are common today, especially in the Mini Van class. But where vehicles like this shine, in my view, is the convenience built in. Power sliding doors neatly retract and close with very little exposure to the sliding mechanism. I also like the sloping long windshield and small snout.
Fit and Finish:
Excellent.
Conveniences:
Low slung for good cornering and ease of entry and exit. It is especially convenient for young and old alike, because it removes the struggle of getting in and out of an SUV. Honda has also designed the third row seat for easy folding down into a recess in the floor for expanded cargo carrying area.
Cost:
Not bad for all the convenience equipment included.
Consumer Recommendation:
Determine your need and if you’re a young family you’ll find the Mini Van a great option to anything out there – especially the SUV. Notice they’re just now beginning to get the bad rap they deserve. By the way, SUV’s are popular and thus the price goes up and the profit is so great even Porsche came out with one. Go figure.
The Competition:
Honda Odyssey 5DR EX $24-30,000, Chevrolet Venture $21-34,000, Chrysler Town & Country $24-37,000, Dodge Caravan $20-35,000, Ford Windstar $21-35,000, GMC Safari $22-26,000, Kia Sedona $20-22,000, Oldsmobile Silhouette $28-36,000, Pontiac Montana $24-34,000, Toyota Sienna $23-37,000, Volkswagen EuroVan $26-28,000.
Good News:
Convenience at a good price, economical to operate, great family vehicle.
Bad News:
Soft ride gets bouncy. A stiffer suspension would be better.
Standard Equipment:
3.5 liter 240 hp V6 engine, 5-speed auto trans, 4-wheel abs disc brakes with electronic distribution, front and side airbags, traction control system, child seat anchors, security and anti theft system, remote keyless entry, DVD entertainment system including stereo, CD, Cassette, DVD players with flip down 7 inch LCD monitor, remote and wireless headphones, leather with heated front seats, drivers 8-way power seat, cruise control, adjustable steering column, power windows and door locks, power tailgate lock, homelink communication system, convertible 2nd row bucket seats, retractable 3rd row seat, folding center tray, roof rails, tinted glass, rear window wiper washer and defroster.
Gas Stats:
18 City and 25 Highway MPG.
Pricing:
MSRP $29,900.
Your comments are welcomed. My e-mail is joe@atthewheel.com
