2005 Honda Odyssey EX-L | Review | Buying Guide
Honda completely revamps this year’s Odyssey, giving it more power, better safety, more standard features and an entirely new trim titled the Touring model. It brings the Honda minivan up into the realm of the luxury class.
The Touring model joins the EX-L at the top of a four-part offering (other Odyssey models covered separately). It adds a wealth of standard features to the already loaded EX-L’s plush leather interior.
There are countless new features this year. A 60/40 split third-row seat, called the Magic Seat, has enhanced fold-down capability and three inches of additional third-row passenger legroom. Eight-passenger seating is offered with the EX-L with a stowable second-row seat that can be converted into a center tray table or removed and stored in the vehicle's new in-floor storage area.
Under the Hood
The 2005 Odyssey offers two similar engines. EX-L and Touring models use a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 255 horsepower at 5750 rpm and 250 lb-ft of torque at 4500 rpm. Mated to it is a new 5-speed automatic transmission.
The 3.5-liter V6 used by uplevel Odysseys is unique because it is the first-ever application of Honda's Variable Cylinder Management system in a minivan. It deactivates three cylinders when cruising or decelerating to save fuel, resulting in fuel ratings of 20/28 mpg (city/highway).
Uplevel models also feature Honda’s new Active Control Engine Mount System (ACM) and Active Noise Control (ANC) technology. They work in tandem to eliminate noise and vibration so that you can enjoy a comfortable, smooth ride.
Standard Features, Options Packages and Style
All Odyssey models are safe. Safety features standard on all Odysseys include antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, traction control and front side airbags. New for 2005 are an antiskid system and curtain side airbags for all three seating rows.
EX-L models enhance an EX package that already include front dual-zone automatic climate controls, heated power mirrors, an AM/FM radio with in-dash 6-disc CD changer and steering-wheel radio controls. They add leather, heated front seats and a sunroof.
Touring models have 17.5-inch wheels with run-flat tires, plus a tire-pressure monitor. They also feature a second-row floor console, a power liftgate, front and rear-obstacle detection, power-adjustable pedals and a 115-volt A/C power outlet.
Available on EX-L and Touring models are navigation and rear-entertainment systems. The navigation system has voice recognition, real-time traffic alerts and comes with a rearview camera.
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