First Drive: 2005 Honda Odyssey

A leather package turns the Odyssey EX into the Odyssey EX-L. Advanced engine technology that generates better fuel economy is standard on this model, along with special noise-suppression technology, triple-zone climate control, and a power sunroof that lacks one-touch open and close control. Oddly, the leather package does not include a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Options for the Odyssey EX-L include a DVD entertainment system with integrated remote control and wireless headphones with personal surround sound; and a DVD navigation system with XM satellite radio, voice-recognition control, integrated Zagat restaurant surveys, and a reversing camera. The Odyssey EX-L starts around $29,000 and runs to about $34,000 with everything, and Honda believes that half of all Odyssey buyers will choose the EX-L.

New for 2005 is the Odyssey Touring, which adds power adjustable pedals, a power tailgate, a 360-watt premium audio system, automatic headlights, parking sensors, a second-row removable center console, a Michelin PAX run-flat tire system with tire pressure monitors, a driver memory seat, a programmable multi-information display, special interior trim, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a 115-volt AC power outlet, fog lights, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and unique alloy wheels. Optional on the Touring are entertainment and navigation systems. Fully equipped, the 2005 Honda Odyssey Touring will be about $38,000, and Honda plans to sell this version to 15 percent of buyers.