People movers come in basically two styles and engineering outcomes: one that is based principally on a commercial van, and the other that has more of a SUV/station wagon association.By Barry Green
The former delivers in carrying not just up to seven people but their luggage and gear as well, whereas the latter is usually not so accommodating in this dual dimension. The fourth generation Honda Odyssey – arguably the most stylish of People Movers, and certainly one of the best selling – better fits the second bill.
Folding rear seats provide an easy load-carrying solution. However, with all three rows in use, cargo space shrinks dramatically.
But the latest Odyssey is an improvement in the key area of safety, where Vehicle Safety Assist (VSA) is now an inclusion along with the much-needed addition of a three-point lap/sash seat belt in the centre of the second row.
Odyssey is one of better drives among its category. Apart from the somewhat restricted third row, it’s comfortable and ergonomically well set up, smooth and quiet, with impressive ride quality.
Although this latest iteration boasts a more powerful 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, performance is best described as adequate. However, the handling and braking is as good as many large size sedans.
An ADR fuel economy combined figure of 8.9 litres/100 km is an improvement over the previous generation Odyssey, but city driving on test produced 13.1 – 1.0 over the claimed urban figure.
Build and finish quality is typical Honda – excellent.
RRP:
$49,990߬
ENGINE:
2.4-litre 4-cyl, 5-spd auto
POWER:
132 kW @ 6500 rpm
߬ TORQUE:
218 Nm @ 4500 rpm߬FUEL CONSUMPTION: 8.9 litres/100 km (ADR)
SAFETY:
* * * * (out of 5)
ENVIRONMENT:
* * * (out of 5)
STANDARD EQUIPMENT:
Anti-lock brakes, traction control, vehicle safety assist, dual front and side airbags, curtain airbags.
FOR:
refinement and comfort, quality, improved safety߬.
AGAINST:
limited space with seven occupants.
