Thanks for the feedback everyone, looks like we'll keep 2 Honda's in the garage (trading a '97 CRV, which has been a damn good car).

We had a hard time with the whole concept of a van, but the ML320 is too hard for my wife to get the kiddo in and out of. Now that we've warmed up to the idea, we wonder who sits in the back and watches DVD's, or plays video games (to be there to watch the kid of course!).

Thanks Again!

 

The '02 Odys are faster (5 speed auto instead of 4; more powerful engine with more torque), quieter (more sound insulation and better grommets/bushings), smoother and more comfortable for the passengers (recaliberated suspension).

If you get leather, you get heated seats also.

 

I have a '99 Plymouth van, but was in the market for the Honda Odyssey. I couldn't wait the 30 - 60 days for one to come in. Now that the Acura MDX and the soon '03 Honda Pilot are being produced in the same plants, it may take even longer. You may have a better chance getting the MDX. The Plymouth sucks!! I've had a number of problems with the Voyager and only have 48K miles on it. I'll be looking to unload this thing next year.

-Greg

 

The 02 Odyssey's are very nice and they now have the 3.5L 240 HP MDX engine instead of the 3.0L 210 HP Accord engine. They have also added leather as an option for this year. Very nice... for a minivan.

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by derryck
[B]The 02 Odyssey's are very nice and they now have the 3.5L 240 HP MDX engine instead of the 3.0L 210 HP Accord engine.

 

My wife has a 2000 Odyssey. We both love it. odyssey's are the only minivans with a independent rear suspension. The only negative that I've noticed is that the fuel economy for in town driving is pretty bad. On the highway its great.

By the way, a guy in his 02 Odyssey tried to race me yesterday. Wouldn't let me merge into his lane. I had to remind him the difference between pulling 2800 lbs vs 4500 lbs with 240 horses.

 

I live about 15 mins from where the Odyssey is born. Alliston Ontario.

The town is full of them and rightly everyone loves them. Can't hear a bad word about Honda period around here. The consumer reports etc don't lie..so its never a bad choice. Plus its pretty darn quick for a minivan. I have full size Ford Clubwagon and I'd gladly swap it out for one ....please take it and give me an Odyssey.

I know at the dealers in the area, make you sign a form stating you will not flip the Odyssey to the US for a full year. Demand is higher than output. Too bad cause I can go to any dealer around and buy 2 today.

Enjoy it.

 

I'm hoping to get a Canadian assembled '02 Od, rather than one from the new plant in Alabama. Only reason is the Canadian plant has been up and running for while vs. the new plant that COULD have new production line related problems. While I'm sure Honda would take care of the problems, I just don't want the hassle (the '02 CRV recall comes to mind). Also, no offense to the fine people of Alabama, but they sure did goof up my 2001 MB ML320.

Looking forward to driving the "space pod".

 

Yes, I agree ... It's no doubt the best handling type of minivan out there on the market. Nothing comes close while the torque and power from the SOHC V6 VTEC block is simply amazing, it's easy to drive and very comfortable. It's quiet and fuel efficient for those who matter, nevertheless it's fully Japan made and built.

 

Takashi,
The Odyssey our American friends are talking about is a different model to what we get in Australia and New Zealand. They have the 3.5 litre(is it correct?) VAN with a sliding door.

http://www.honda2001.com/models/odyssey/in...tml?honda=intro

Not as pretty as the JDM Odyssey in my opinion.