A typical automotive review is filled with the observations and findings of a journalist often more intrigued by performance measurements and the latest technology than the functionality of commonplace products in the day-to-day world of Dick and Jane. In an effort to extract the findings of "Jane," Honda supplied six professional women with a 2008 Odyssey Touring Edition to serve as their road-trip chariot.
2008 Odyssey: much more than a family workhorse
All six piled into the Honda's opulent 8-passenger transport, but rather than cart kids around like high-maintenance freight, our six assessors headed to BC's spectacular Naramata wine country for a weekend escape.
En-route, they quickly gained an appreciation for a "minivan" that wasn't rooted in domestic chores and family routine--the bread and butter of these oft-maligned mainstays of automotive modernity.
Rather than paraphrase the thoughts of our intrepid reporters, I will simply copy their comments from a log collectively maintained.
The log:
 |
| All 2008 Odyssey models carry a full suite of airbags, including side curtain inflatables for all three rows of seating. |
2008 Odyssey: much more than a family workhorse
All six piled into the Honda's opulent 8-passenger transport, but rather than cart kids around like high-maintenance freight, our six assessors headed to BC's spectacular Naramata wine country for a weekend escape.
En-route, they quickly gained an appreciation for a "minivan" that wasn't rooted in domestic chores and family routine--the bread and butter of these oft-maligned mainstays of automotive modernity.
Rather than paraphrase the thoughts of our intrepid reporters, I will simply copy their comments from a log collectively maintained.
The log:
- We couldn't believe how much storage there was for our bags and boxes of wine. Imagine luggage for six women, a cooler and more than four cases of wine, not to mention the six women and their purses, and you get the picture.
- The seats are so comfortable it's like sitting in your living room. It feels like they have lumbar support and there is no aching back after hours of driving and/or sitting. The adjustable headrests, particularly in the rear seat, were excellent.
- The rear view camera took some time to get used to and we wouldn't rely on it entirely, but it helps with safety. We don't recommend using it at night if you are easily spooked, as the lighting feels a bit like being in a horror movie.
- Could there be MORE cup holders (rhetorical)? Seriously, we loved all the cup holders!
- There are plugs and headphone jacks in the back--very cool feature.
- Incredible leg room.
 |
| The seats are so comfortable it's like sitting in your living room. |