2002 Honda Odyssey LX review from North America

I bought the car new (2003 model) and went over it with a fine tooth comb. I waxed it the day after I bought it (suggested in the owners manual) checked all fluids, tires (including the spare), checked all buttons and motors and the only thing that was wrong was the parking brake light didn't light up on the dash. I took it to the dealer who found that the plug at the parking brake switch had come undone. The service manager showed me where it was in case it happened again. Otherwise the car is absolutely perfect.

The engine is exceptionally smooth and powerful. I usually push a car hard (after the break in period is over) but on the Oddyssey, I barely have to press the accelerator to get the the power I want. This is the opposite of the Fords I have had in the recent past (4 Taurus's in the last 5 years, plus a '93 Mercury Tracer, and a '91 Dodge Caravan).

The Transmission shifts very smoothly and has the grade logic feature which means it holds the car back when braking down a hill. This means that the transmission downshifts to create compression braking rather than making me use the regular brakes. If I don't wan the downshift, I simply let off the brake for a few seconds. It is hilly in my area and this is a great feature to have. I believe it will save on brakes and lessen the chances of warped brake rotors (which is a common problem for Taurus and Caravans).

The seats are very comfortable for my family and I. The kids love taking the Honda out on long drives. There is a tremendous amount of storage room behind the third row seat.

Honda has put a lot of thought in this car and the many comfort features stand out and make this a car that is a joy to drive and a joy to ride in. It is powerful, quiet, smooth, very roomy, has a strong heater system and powerful fans, and drives like a car costing much, much more.