Honda keeps it simple with only two models - the basic Odyssey which we tested and the Odyssey Luxury.  Both are powered by a 2.4lt i-VTEC 4cyl petrol engine that produces an impressive 132kw of people moving power and 218Nm of torque and is coupled to a 5 speed auto transmission.  The Odyssey weighs in at 1.7tonnes and Honda quote fuel consumption of 8.9 litres/100kms (combined).  We averaged precisely 10.0 litres/100kms over some 300kms of predominately city driving.  This economy comes despite the need to stir the engine along when loaded.
The Odyssey comes with almost every safety feature available - very appealing to anyone who has to move people on a regular basis.  There are front and side airbags up front, with full length side curtains and side impact protection.  ABS brakes, brake assist and EBD electronic brake force distribution are standard as is Vehicle Stability Assist and the Honda Traction Control system.  The most recent ANCAP crash test result for Odyssey is from 2006 where it scored a 4 star rating.  The model tested then had no stability control but scored 16 out of 16 for side impact protection.
The Odyssey's Motion Adaptive Electric Power Steering detects instability in slippery conditions during cornering and braking.  It automatically initiates steering inputs aimed at allowing the driver to steer in the right direction.
Honda's clearly stated aim has been to produce a 7 seater which looks and handles like a car.  They've achieved this and its car like proportions also translate into low body roll and stability when cornering so we were pleasantly surprised when doing the obligatory roundabout test.
Freeway motoring is comfortable and quiet with ergonomically designed seats, a pretty reasonable 6 speaker sound system and climate control with rear ventilation.
The drinks department is also adequately managed with 6 cup and 4 bottle holders.
The Odyssey Luxury comes with leather seats (heated up front and with power for the driver), tri-zone climate control, auto HID headlights, fog lights, sunroof, 6 stacker, 17"alloys (an extra 1") and a few other cosmetic touches.  Missing from both models unfortunately is Sat. Nav. and Bluetooth.  With 7 seats one might also expect some DVD capability for the 2 back rows these days.
Released in early 2009, the current Odyssey & Luxury were priced at $43,990 & $49,990 plus on roads.  In January 2010 Honda is offering Odyssey at $40,990 including on roads.
In the people moving market there's plenty to choose from these days and while Odyssey lacks Navigation and Bluetooth and perhaps could do with a torquey diesel option it still easily tops its class.
Odyssey definitely has form and function and at current pricing the bonus of great value.

Tested October 2009
Test vehicle courtesy Honda Australia