Temple of VTEC Rumors and News - Quality and Reliability Make Honda Odyssey Award-Winning Minivan

Torrance, Calif. 10/06/2003 -- The Odyssey has been the benchmark in the minivan segment since its launch. The 2004 Honda Odyssey continues to set an exceptionally high standard in the minivan segment by combining innovative features with class-leading dependability, quality and reliability.

Overall, the Odyssey has accounted for a number of minivan firsts, including a class-leading 240-horsepower engine, standard dual-stage driver's and front passenger's airbags and an optional state-of-the-art DVD entertainment system. All this has been accomplished while maintaining the remarkable reliability and long-term value that Honda customers have come to expect.

The Odyssey features a 3.5-liter, 24-valve, VTEC V-6 engine which produces 240-horsepower and 242 lb.-ft. of torque on regular unleaded fuel. Teamed with a electronically-controlled 5-speed automatic transmission with Honda Grade Logic, the Odyssey maximizes performance while delivering high fuel economy 18/25 mpg (EPA city/highway) and low emissions. The Odyssey also features a 4-wheel independent suspension system that combines an exceptionally smooth and stable ride with spirited handling.

The Odyssey's technologically advanced safety features have earned it the highest available rating of five stars from the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for frontal and side impacts. The Odyssey's four-ring safety shell body is reinforced with front and rear crush zones, and sturdy steel side-impact door beams help minimize the risk of injury in a collision. Additionally, features such as load-balancing Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and a 4-wheel Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) retain steering control and traction. In the event of a collision, dual-stage front airbags, driver and front passenger side airbags and seatbelts with load limiters and pretensioners assist in protecting occupants from serious injury.

The 2004 Odyssey adds no new exterior colors but the interior color on Redrock Pearl models is paired with a Saddle interior (changed from Gray). Odyssey colors are Midnight Blue Pearl, Nighthawk Black Pearl, Sage Brush Pearl and Sandstone Metallic, Havasu Blue Metallic, Starlight Silver Metallic and Taffeta White.

In 2003, the Odyssey was lauded with the following accolades:Automobile Magazine
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"2003 Editor's All-Star Award" (Best Minivan)
"2003 Readers Choice All-Stars Awards"

Car and Driver

"5 Best Trucks"

Consumer Reports

"Top Pick Minivan"

Edmunds.com

"Most Wanted Awards" (Minivan)

JD Power and Associates

"Most Appealing Compact Van"

Kiplinger's Personal Finance

"Best in Class Minivan"

Parents Magazine

"Top 5 Choices in Segment"