Long-Term Update: 2005 Honda Odyssey Touring

With each new Odyssey, Honda reestablishes its dominance in the minivan marketplace. It does this not only by winning magazine comparison tests, but also at the dealer level, where "additional dealer markup" seems the often-used phrase of the Honda sales reps. Everyone needs the people-and-stuff-moving capability of a minivan, and we're no different. We opted for the top-of-the-line Touring model, sans Nav, which includes everything offered on the 3.5-liter V-6-equipped LX through EX models, plus variable cylinder management (also available on the EX) and the Michelin PAX run-flat system with unique 17-inch self-supporting wheels.

The VCM should yield better fuel economy, something on everyone's mind these days, and we'll see if the soft-sidewall PAX tires deliver a more comfortable ride, as promised. Upon the Honda's delivery, we were surprised at how bad the radio reception was, barely able to pick up even the strongest FM stations. AM was just a hiss. The dealer diagnosed the problem as a defective antenna, which is mounted in the passenger-side window glass. It was replaced, but with no improvement. So they replaced the antenna cable, which solved the problem. Otherwise, we're confident this well-trimmed people-mover will be constantly on the go.