2005 Honda Odyssey

 

 

 

Overview:  Advancing the Standard of Leadership

When Honda engineers set out to design the all-new 2005 Honda Odyssey, they faced the challenge of improving on a vehicle that set the standard for the minivan segment in terms of performance, car-like ride and handling, top-level safety ratings, overall refinement and its spacious and uniquely versatile interior with the industry’s first fold-away 3^rd-Row Magic Seat®.  They also recognized the unique quality of the Odyssey in appealing not only to customers’ desire for superior utility, but also for its unique style and fun-to-drive character.  One expression of this unique quality is the tendency for Odyssey owners to refer to their vehicles as “the Odyssey” and not just “the minivan”.

 

For 2005, Honda has delivered an all-new completely re-engineered Odyssey minivan: a clean-sheet design that improves upon every single one of the Odyssey’s existing strengths while providing an added dimension of emotional appeal and aspirational quality through enhancements in styling, premium features, advanced technology and driving performance – built on the foundation of Honda quality, safety and environmental leadership. 

 

Highlights of the 2005 Honda Odyssey:

q       Best-in-class performance and fuel efficiency through advanced powertrain technology;

q       Enhanced handling and ride quality that approaches the level of a luxury-class sedan;

q       Advanced safety technology and performance;

q       A more sophisticated, stylish and versatile interior;

q       More dynamic and expressive exterior styling;

q       Improved interior packaging for increased comfort and utility;

q       Exclusive new entertainment and information technologies; and

q       New Touring model takes the premium quality of the Odyssey to a new level with unique features and technology never before seen in the minivan segment.

The result is an Odyssey that raises the bar not only in the traditional measurements of minivan performance – safety, space, comfort and utility – but goes a step beyond to deliver a more personally rewarding experience for the passengers and driver alike; a vehicle that changes the definition of minivan excellence through attention to detail in every aspect of the vehicle’s performance, function and character.

 

It’s not a minivan…it’s an Odyssey.

 

Key new features of the 2005 Honda Odyssey:

Confident, Luxury Sedan-Like Performance, Ride and Handling

Enhanced engine performance, body design and advanced new technologies deliver ride, handling and NVH performance designed to approach that of a luxury-class sedan

 

q       255HP VTEC V6 (+15HP) with a new five-speed automatic transmission for class-leading fuel efficiency, power and responsiveness along with improved and ultra-low emissions;

q       All-new chassis and body structure with greatly enhanced body rigidity, new fully-isolated front and rear sub-frames and improved suspension design for best-in-class NVH, handling and ride comfort;

q       First ever application of Variable Cylinder Management^TM (VCM^TM) technology in a minivan, for class-leading power and fuel efficiency (EX with Leather and Touring models); and 

q       Innovative new Active Control Engine Mount System (ACM) and Active Noise Control (ANC) technology work to eliminate noise and vibration associated with VCM activation (EX with Leather and Touring models).

 

Innovative and Versatile Interior

Class-Leading Comfort, Space and Versatility

 

q       New One-Motion 60/40 Split 3rd-Row Magic Seat® with enhanced fold-down capability for improved versatility and ease of operation with three inches of additional third-row passenger legroom;

q       Eight-passenger seating courtesy of a new Stowable 2nd-Row PlusOne Seat^TM on EX and EX with Leather models that can be converted into a center tray table or removed and stored in the vehicle’s new in-floor storage area (with Lazy Susan);

q       Available DVD Entertainment System with new and larger 9-inch display, integrated remote control and wireless infrared headphones with personal surround sound, a minivan first;

q       Industry-leading Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System^TM with expanded Voice Recognition capabilities has new features including rearview camera and Zagat survey information for restaurants;

q       Premium interior features for Touring models including Power Adjustable Pedals, Tri-Zone Automatic Climate Control, Power Tailgate, available Satellite-Linked Navigation system with Voice Recognition and integrated Rearview Camera, premium audio, auto headlights, parking sensors, XM® Satellite Radio (with Navi), 6-disc CD changer and a 2nd-row removable center console; and

q       Upper and Lower Glove Compartment in instrument panel.

 

Advanced Safety Performance

New ACE^TM Body Structure and unmatched list of standard safety features deliver the highest-level of safety protection in the minivan segment

 

q       All-new Advanced Compatibility Engineering^TM (ACE)^TM Body Structure for enhanced safety protection with reduced aggressivity toward other vehicles in a frontal collision; 

q       Comprehensive list of advanced safety features delivered as standard equipment on all models includes ACE body structure; Vehicle Stability Assist (VSAâ) with Traction Control, four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes (ABS); Brake Assist; advanced driver, front passenger front side airbags; three-row side curtain airbags with rollover sensors; pre-tensioning driver and front passenger seatbelts; and four-ring safety structure with side impact protection beams; and

q       Touring models feature new Michelin PAX System^TM and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) with Location and Pressure Indicators for enhanced security and stability in the event of a loss of tire pressure.

 

Improved Packaging

Increased comfort, roominess and versatility through enhanced packaging efficiency

 

q       Increased interior dimensions without a significant increase to the exterior dimensions;

q       Maintains the same length as the previous model while the width increases by one inch;

q       Interior length increased by two inches; width increases by one inch;

q       Class-leading third row legroom – up three inches from 2004 model;

q       Available eight-passenger seating capability with Stowable 2^nd-Row PlusOne Seat™;

q       Full-size 2nd-row captain’s chairs; and

q       In-floor storage area with a lazy Susan storage console (EX and above).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A Symbol of Innovation

 

The Honda Odyssey has long been a symbol of innovation not only in the minivan segment but also in the automotive industry in general. Features like its superb handling and the Magic Third Row Seat^TM model helped to further set the Odyssey apart from the competition. As others have copied features from the original design, Honda is delivering a fresh round of advanced technology and features designed to cement the Odyssey as the overall benchmark in innovation, performance and safety.  Minivan firsts for the 2005 Odyssey include:

 

q       First minivan to use Variable Cylinder Management^TM (VCM)^TM technology for improved fuel economy;

q       First minivan to employ an Active Control Engine Mount System (ACM) and Active Noise Control (ANC) Technology;

q       First minivan to provide Three-Row Side Curtain Airbags with Rollover Sensors and Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA®) as standard equipment;

q       First minivan with Stowable 2^nd-Row PlusOne Seat™; 

q       First minivan with voice recognition capabilities; and

q       First minivan with Michelin PAX System^TM.

 

All-New Touring Package Moves Odyssey into Premium Luxury Territory

The 2005 Honda Odyssey Touring package provides the ultimate level of technology and luxury in one convenient package. As the light truck market expands into a more sophisticated mode of transportation, the demand for premium features is increasing in the minivan segment. The 2005 Odyssey meets this demand by incorporating more than a dozen exclusive and upscale features along with special interior trim, seamlessly blending premium luxury into a minivan package. The result is a vehicle that can deliver the best of all worlds – performance, luxury, safety, technology and functionality – with seating for seven adults.

 

The 2005 Honda Odyssey Touring model builds on the already full-featured EX model with leather interior, Variable Cylinder Management^TM (VCM^TM) and Active Noise Control (ANC) by adding a power tailgate, power adjustable pedals, tri-zone automatic climate control, a removable 2^nd-row center console, a driver memory seat, a programmable Multi-Information Display, unique interior trim, automatic day/night rearview mirrors, a 115-volt power outlet and more. XM® Satellite Radio is standard equipment on EX with Leather and Touring models equipped with the available Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ with Voice Recognition and Rearview Camera. (The navigation system is the only factory option on the full-featured Touring model, which offers customers a simplified ordering/purchasing process compared to some competitors’ complicated option packages).

 

Additionally, the Touring model includes the Michelin PAX System^TM, a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) with location and pressure indicators, body-colored front and rear parking sensors, fog lights and auto-off headlights as standard equipment.The Touring model was designed inside and out to appeal to sophisticated buyers from young families to empty nesters and everything in-between.   

 

Interior: Sophisticated Luxury Meets Comfort and Functionality

New Features:

q       Standard Three-Row Side Curtain Airbags with Rollover Sensors,

q       Available 8-Passenger seating (EX and EX with Leather) with Stowable 2^nd-Row PlusOne Seat™;

q       One-Motion 60/40 Split 3^rd-Row Magic Seat®;

q       Standard In-Floor Storage with Lazy Susan (EX and above);

q       2^nd-Row Power Windows;

q       Instrument Panel-Mounted Shifter;

q       Integrated 2^nd-Row Sunshades (EX and above);

q       Conversation Mirror with Sunglasses Holder (EX and above);

q       Tri-Zone Automatic Climate Control (Touring);

q       Power Adjustable Pedals (Touring);

q       Premium Audio System (Touring):

q       Honda DVD Entertainment System with larger 9-inch display, integrated remote control, and wireless headsets with personal surround sound;

q       Active Noise Control (ANC) (standard with VCM on EX with Leather and Touring),

q       Available XM® Satellite Radio on EX and above models (standard on navigation-equipped models); and

q       Available Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System^TM with Voice Recognition and Rearview Camera (EX with Leather and Touring).

 

The same innovative thinking that shaped the groundbreaking 1999 Odyssey continues with the all-new 2005 Odyssey. The 1999 Odyssey interior redefined the role of a minivan with its solid ergonomics, outstanding comfort with functionality, and of course, the three-passenger Third Row Magic Seat^TM. The Odyssey and its innovative features have influenced other manufacturers, and the 2005 Odyssey is poised to raise the bar once again. 

 

With first class seating areas in all three rows and an emphasis on comfort and space efficiency, interior innovations focus on safety equipment, additional seating capacity (eight passenger available), in-floor storage, and more accessible and flexible third row seating. Sophisticated interior styling enhancements and available features such as a tri-zone climate control, power moonroof and XM® Satellite Radio bring a new level of luxury to the Odyssey. While some minivans utilize a folding 2nd row seat to improve cargo space access, the Odyssey uses full captains chairs (removable) that slide forward and back by up to 10 inches as well as sliding together or apart. Not only does this approach provide enhanced cargo flexibility, it helps ensure that the frequently used second row seats maintain a high level of comfort and flexibility.

 

 

 

 

 

The 2005 Odyssey now provides six individual Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) airbags with coverage areas in all three rows of seating with a new side curtain airbag system that incorporates rollover sensor technology. For comparison, the 2004 Odyssey, which achieved a 5-star rating for front and side impacts from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), had four individual airbags – standard driver’s and front passenger’s supplemental restraint system (SRS) airbags along with driver’s and front passenger’s side airbags. Internal Honda testing shows that the 2005 Honda Odyssey will achieve a 5-star rating for front and side impacts from NHTSA.

 

Moving beyond comfort, functionality and safety, the interior décor emphasizes the style and sophistication consistent with a premium luxury sedan. A deeply sculpted dashboard, attractively integrated trim pieces, along with a solid and precise fit and finish throughout help elevate the overall Odyssey interior experience. Seating for eight passengers is standard on the EX and EX with Leather trim levels courtesy of an innovative new Stowable 2^nd-Row PlusOne Seat^TM that can be quickly and easily removed then stored in the in-floor storage area when not needed. For easier access to the third row, the second row seats now use a convenient walk-in slide mechanism (similar to those commonly found on 2-door coupe automobiles).

 

An in-floor storage area (with a rotating Lazy Suzan storage tray on EX, EX with Leather and Touring models) has been added in between the first and second rows.  Tri-Zone Automatic Climate Control and a moonroof are standard on EX trim levels with leather interior and the Touring model. The new ultra-luxurious Touring model adds to the luxury sedan theme with features such as adjustable power pedals, unique interior trim, high-power 360-watt premium audio system, and a power tailgate. Overall, the new Odyssey offers more creature comforts than ever on all trim levels as it achieves top-of-the-class levels of quietness, comfort and safety.

 

 

 

 

Body: Sporty Demeanor Encases Advanced Safety Design

New Features:

q       Advanced Compatibility Engineering^TM (ACE)^TM Body Structure,

q       Width increased 1-inch,

q       Torsional and bending rigidity increased 20 percent,

q       Reduced NVH,

q       Available Power Tailgate added,

q       Available moonroof, gaps reduced between body panels by as much as 1.5mm,

q       Lightweight sound deadening material utilized,

q       Aerodynamics increased (about 5 percent),

q       Larger fuel tank (+1 gallon)

 

The Odyssey’s body is designed to provide a low, flat floor with a large cabin and the ultimate in minivan functionality. Increased body rigidity (+20 percent), increased width (+1-inch) and a larger capacity fuel tank (+ 1 gallon) are some of the new body features. The Odyssey’s re-designed sheet metal exhibits a solid and dynamic direction with styling accents that create a uniform beltline around the vehicle. The lines generate a powerful stance and an enveloping feeling of safety. Yet, safety for the Odyssey is much more than skin deep.

The 2005 Odyssey employs Honda’s revolutionary new Advanced Compatibility Engineering^TM (ACE)^TM Body Structure system. This newly developed front-end frame structure incorporates new upper and lower frame members to significantly enhance energy dissipation in a frontal collision. The design also helps reduce the potential for misalignment with the frame of the opposing vehicle.  Taken together, these features result in increased compatibility between vehicles of different size categories for significantly enhanced occupant protection and reduced aggressivity toward other vehicles in a collision.

 

Chassis: Performance Beyond a Minivan

New Features:

q       Redesigned MacPherson Strut Front Suspension,

q       Redesigned Double Wishbone Rear Suspension,

q       Floating Rear Subframe,

q       Larger Standard Wheels and Tires (P235/65R16),

q       Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA®) with Brake Assist,

q       Available PAX System^TM with Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) with Location and Pressure Indicators

 

 

The handling of the Odyssey has always demonstrated that a minivan can have sporty aspirations in addition to utility and comfort. Considered by many to be the best handling minivan, the target for the all-new Odyssey chassis tuning went from secure and solid car-like on the previous model to sports luxury sedan-like for the 2005 model. Major refinements have been made to reduce road noise, increase steering linearity and firmness with a better on-center feel, improved ride comfort and better overall rigidity. Translation: the new Odyssey soaks up bumps and feels more stable and less fatiguing while driving on uneven pavement surfaces or in strong crosswinds, plus it is more fun to drive. The choppy feeling caused by the expansion joints in cement slabs has

 

 

 

 

been greatly reduced along with the sounds and vibration forces transmitted from hitting potholes and bumps.

 

 

 

 

 

The changes to the chassis are extensive and provide significant ride and handling benefits. Improved ride comfort has been assisted by bigger tires, larger and stronger bushings, and revised shock absorber   placement/tuning on the double wishbone rear suspension. Additionally through these changes, front-end dive and body roll is noticeably reduced. 

 

Enhanced stability has been achieved through the addition of a new generation of Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA®) with Traction Control that independently engages the four-wheel disc brakes during heavy cornering to reduce oversteer and understeer conditions. Plus, the Traction Control now modulates fuel delivery in addition to the ignition system during low traction situations. The VSA system is standard on every Odyssey model and trim level as part of Honda’s Safety for Everyone commitment.

 

Powertrain: Advanced Technology for Economy and Performance

New Features:

q       255 horsepower (+15 hp),

q       250 lb.-ft. torque(+8 lb.-ft.),

q       SOHC  i-VTEC V-6 with Variable Cylinder Management^TM(VCM^TM)

q       Federal Tier 2 Bin 5, California LEV2-ULEV emissions

q       EPA highway fuel economy of 28 mpg (models with VCM)

 

 

The 2005 Honda Odyssey receives a 15 horsepower (6 percent) boost compared to the 2004 model and an increase in EPA highway fuel economy by as much as 12 percent on models with the i-VTEC VCM engine. Two engine choices are available for the first time ever on the Odyssey – a SOHC VTEC V-6 and a SOHC i-VTEC V-6 with Variable Cylinder Management^TM (VCM^TM). The 2005 Odyssey engine only requires regular unleaded gasoline, which provides a long-term cost-of-ownership advantage compared to some competitor minivans that require premium unleaded fuel to achieve maximum horsepower rating.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Variable Cylinder Management (standard equipment on EX with Leather and Touring models) increases fuel efficiency by “shutting off” three of the engine’s six cylinders during cruising and deceleration. For performance, the engine operates on all six cylinders during acceleration and heavy load situations. The system works seamlessly and is transparent to the driver in feel and sound.

 

 

In fact, the Odyssey models with VCM are especially quiet because those vehicles are equipped with Active Noise Control (ANC) technology that works with the audio system to effectively cancel inherent noise produced by the VCM system (along with some road noise). Additional NVH dampening occurs through the use of an Active Control Engine Mount System (ACM) that uses electrically activated dampers to minimize engine vibration for an incredibly smooth and quiet driving experience.

 

The Odyssey’s compact 5-speed automatic transmission provides ultra smooth and efficient operation characteristics with the adoption of a direct control shift system that works with the drive-by-wire throttle control.

 

Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options

(New equipment shown in italics)

The 2005 Honda Odyssey is available in three trim levels: the well-equipped LX, the upscale EX and the ultra-premium Touring trim level (new for 2005).

 

Standard features on the LX include a 3.5-liter 255 horsepower SOHC VTEC V-6, 5-speed automatic transmission, 16-inch wheels with wheel covers, P235/65R16 tires, Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA®) with Traction Control, advanced dual stage dual threshold driver’s and front passenger’s airbags, driver’s and front passenger’s side airbags, three-row side curtain airbags with rollover sensors, power front windows, 2nd-row power windows, power locks, cruise control, keyless entry, CD player, One Motion 60/40 split 3rd-rowMagic Seat®, In-Floor Storage, and Smart Maintenance Indicator.

 

The EX adds alloy wheels, Stowable 2^nd-Row PlusOne Seat™ for eight passenger seating, power sliding doors, a 6-disc in-dash CD player, In-Floor Storage with Lazy Susan, Integrated 2nd Row Sunshades and a Conversation Mirror with Sunglasses Holder.

 

The EX with Leather adds a 255-horsepower SOHC i-VTEC V-6 with Variable Cylinder Management^TM (VCM^TM), Active Control Engine Mount System (ACM), Active Noise Control (ANC), Power Moonroof, available Honda DVD Entertainment System with 9-inch display, integrated remote control and wireless headsets w/ personal surround sound, and available Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System with Voice Recognition and Integrated Rearview Camera.

 

The Touring model adds a Power Tailgate, Tri-Zone Automatic Climate Control, 115-Volt AC Power Outlet, Driver Memory Seat, multi information display, power adjustable pedals, leather steering wheel, auto dimming rear view mirror, fog lights, corner/backup sensors, auto headlights, 2^nd-row removable center console (in place of the Stowable 2nd Row PlusOne Seat^TM), Michelin PAX System^TM 17.5-inch wheels and 235/710R460A tires, and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) with Location and Pressure Sensors.

 

 

Honda Safety for Everyone Commitment

Just as Honda has been long associated with high quality, reliable and fun-to-drive vehicles, Honda is also committed to delivering the safest vehicles on the road.  Demonstrating this commitment, Honda is providing a core suite of advanced safety equipment as standard equipment on all models and trim levels– with some features that are not available anywhere else. The 2005 Odyssey marks a significant milestone in the application of Honda safety technology since it is the first Honda vehicle in North America to fully implement Honda’s Safety for Everyone commitment. The Safety for Everyone commitment includes the following:

 

q       All Honda and Acura vehicles, with the exception of a small number of specialty vehicles, will get Front Side Airbags, Side Curtain Airbags and Anti-Lock Brakes as standard equipment before the end of calendar year 2006.

q       All Honda and Acura light trucks, including all SUVs and minivans, will be equipped with Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA®) and rollover sensors for side curtain airbag deployment before the end of calendar year 2006.

q       Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering^TM (ACE)^TM body structure, offering enhanced occupant protection with reduced aggressivity toward other vehicles, will be applied to all new vehicle platforms in the U.S. and globally over the next six to seven years. The 2005 model Honda Odyssey minivan and Acura RL sedan are the first U.S. models to carry this new technology.

q       In its efforts to increase safety for all road users, Honda will further expand the use of features designed to reduce injuries to pedestrians from the current industry-leading 10 models.

 

These initiatives represent the next logical step in the evolution of Honda’s ‘Safety for Everyone’ concept, a comprehensive approach to vehicle safety that seeks to provide high levels of occupant protection for all Honda and Acura vehicles regardless of size or price, along with reduced aggressivity toward other vehicles and improved safety for pedestrians.

 

 

 

 

 

Environmental Leadership

Honda has consistently led the industry in meeting new emission requirements and bringing advanced engines and emission technologies to the customer. In addition to providing class leading fuel economy, the 2005 Odyssey qualifies as a LEV2-ULEV (Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle in California and some Eastern states) and Tier 2 Bin 5 in the Federal emissions program. To achieve Tier 2-Bin 5 classification, a vehicle must reduce NOx emissions by at least 75 percent over pre-existing levels. 

 

Honda is the industry leader in certifying vehicles to the Tier 2 standards.  In 2002, Honda became the first manufacturer to offer gasoline-powered vehicles to the final Tier 2 requirements.  In 2003, more than 50 percent of vehicles sold by Honda were certified to meet the tougher emission standards, two years ahead of the requirements and more than the rest of the industry combined. For 2004, Honda has certified more than 60 percent of its total vehicle fleet to the Tier 2 standards, compared to an industry average of 35 percent.

 

Engineers also targeted a high level of parts’ recyclability.  More than 90 percent of the 2005 Odyssey component parts are made of recyclable materials.  Additional measures taken to reduce the long-term environmental impact of the vehicle include:

 

q       The use of non-chromed tanned leather in leather-equipped models reduces hazardous waste generation during the tanning process and can be composted at the end of the vehicle’s life;

 

q       Elimination of PVC material in interior parts including door lining, shift knob, seat trim and center console lid and exterior parts such as roof and door moldings, weather strips and tubes for improved recyclability;

 

q       Reduced amount of environmentally hazardous materials by eliminating halogens for flame retardant materials and eliminated lead in wheel balancers and electro-deposition coatings

 

q       Use of water-borne (solvent free) paint for exterior surfaces, reducing emissions during the paint process;

 

q       Use of molded-in color plastics for reduced paint use and factory emissions;

 

q       Replacement of ABS plastic with polypropylene material in the center console, instrument panel and doors for reduced emissions during ABS plastic manufacturing; and

 

q       Long-life fluids that result in no required engine coolant change for the first 10 years or 120,000 miles, and engine oil changes that are prescribed (with the Smart Maintenance Indicator) at intervals of one year or 7,500 miles under normal circumstances, less often than typically required.

 

 

Market Position

The all-new third generation 2005 Odyssey is positioned to maintain the benchmark status that it has enjoyed since its introduction. While the new Odyssey meets the traditional buyers’ expectations for a fun vehicle designed with safety in mind; it also offers an elevated level of style, sophistication and luxury amenities. These enhancements provide enhanced appeal through the Odyssey’s overall technology, styling, performance and innovation.

 

Compared to other minivan owners, Odyssey owners are generally younger and more affluent, with at least one child under 18 years of age. Also, Odyssey owners have the highest brand loyalty in the industry*. The 2005 Odyssey emphasizes features for people with more active lifestyles. These new features provide extraordinary versatility with power and performance, and are designed to inspire those who may have never thought about a minivan to consider an Odyssey.

* 2003 Maritz data

 

Honda Maintains the Highest Residual Values in the Industry

The Honda Odyssey has built a reputation for maintaining the highest residual values in the industry. Residual value performance measures the ability of a product to hold its value over time and is considered a key indicator of a product’s long-term desirability.  A strong residual value results in less depreciation, reducing cost of ownership. The Automotive Lease Guide (ALG), an industry leader in setting automotive residual values, named Honda the industry’s top automotive brand with the highest overall residual values across its full range of models for the 2004 model year. Adding to that, the Honda Odyssey has been the ALG minivan segment winner for six consecutive years since 1999 (when the second generation Odyssey was introduced).

 

Manufacturing

The Odyssey is produced at Honda Manufacturing of Alabama in Lincoln, Alabama. The Lincoln Plant is the newest of Honda's North American automobile plants, opening six months ahead of schedule in November 2001 to meet market demand.  Manufacturing the Honda Odyssey minivan and its V-6 engine, the plant adopts Honda's New Manufacturing System technologies for both vehicle and engine production to realize more efficient and flexible manufacturing.  Frame and engine assembly takes place under the same roof in a synchronous manner.  The plant added its second assembly line, which began production in April 2004. Using domestic and globally sourced parts, Honda began assembling motorcycles in America in 1979 and is celebrating 25 years of U.S. production in 2004. Honda began automobile production in the U.S. in 1982 with the Accord and was the first Japanese automaker to assemble products for the North American market in the United States. Today, Honda employs more than 14,000 associates in the design, development, manufacturing and marketing of vehicles in North America.

 

About Honda

Honda (NYSE: HMC) is one of today’s leading manufacturers of automobiles and power products and the largest manufacturer of motorcycles in the world. The result is more than 120 manufacturing facilities in 30 countries worldwide, producing a wide range of products, including motorcycles, ATVs, generators, marine engines, lawn and garden equipment and automobiles that bring the company into contact with over 17 million customers annually.

 

September 2004 marks the 25^th anniversary of the first product assembled by Honda in North America.  From that first motorcycle built in Ohio in 1979, Honda now has 12 major plants in the region, producing a range of products and components including cars and light trucks, motorcycles, ATVs, personal watercraft, lawn mowers and engines.

 

More than 75% of the cars and light trucks Honda sells in the U.S. are built in North America.  Increasingly, many of these products are developed in America as well, including the Honda Civic Coupe, Element and Pilot – and the Acura TL and MDX.

 

Honda Odyssey Competitive Comparison

The all-new third generation 2005 Honda Odyssey has been designed to be the best overall minivan. When it comes to understanding how people actually use a minivan, the Odyssey delivers more where it counts. Briefly, the Odyssey compares to its competitors in the following ways:

	2005 Honda Odyssey	2004 Honda Odyssey	2004 Toyota Sienna	2005 Chrysler Town & Country	2004 Nissan Quest
MSRP	TBA	$24,490-$30,490	$23,905-$40,530	$20.995-$35,260	$24,240 -$37,240
Engines	3.5L V-6 255HP	3.5L V-6 240HP	3.3L V-6 230HP	3.3L V-6 180 HP, 3.8L V-6 215 HP	3.5L V-6 240 HP
Variable Cylinder Management	Available	Not Available	Not Available	Not Available	Not Available
Transmission	5AT	5AT	5AT	4AT	4AT/5AT
EPA Fuel Economy, (City/Highway)	20/28* (i-VTEC) 19/25*  (VTEC)	18/25	19/27	18/25 (3.8L) 19/26 (3.3L)	19/26(4AT) 18/25(5AT)
Seating Capacity	8 (Available)	7	8 (Available)	7	7
Wheelbase, in.	118.1	118.1	119.3	119.3	124.0
Interior volume, cu. ft.	209.8	208.8	221.0	193.7	244.6
Powered Sliding Doors	Available	Available	Available	Available	Available
2nd Row Power Windows	Yes	No	Yes	No	No
Magic 3rd Row Seat	One-Motion	Yes	Yes	Available	Available
NHTSA Front Crash Test Rating	5-Star**	5-Star	5-Star	TBD	5-Star
NHTSA Side Impact Crash Test Rating	5-Star**	5-Star	5-Star	TBT	TBT
Weight (base model)	4,378	4310	4,120	3,988	4,012

* Based on 2005 EPA mileage estimates. Use for comparison purposes only. Actual mileage may vary.

** Based on Honda in-house testing.  Note: All values subject to change.

 

 

Odyssey’s History of Awards and Accolades

q       Six times Automobile’s All-Star

q       Two times Car and Driver’s 5Best Trucks