Honda Odyssey Wins Drive Car of the Year 'Best People Mover'

TULLAMARINE, AUSTRALIA – November 27, 2009: For the fourth time in five years, the Honda Odyssey has won the prestigious Fairfax Drive Car of the Year Award for the Best People Mover.

The third-generation Odyssey won the Drive award in 2004, 2005 and 2006 and this fourth-generation model continues the winning tradition.

Toby Hagon, Drive Editor said, “The new Odyssey fits seven seats into a sensibly sized family package that now boasts world-class safety.”

Honda Australia Managing Director and CEO, Mr. Yasuhide Mizuno is delighted with the result.

“We are very proud to win this award again for the fourth time. It really highlights the exceptional qualities of the Odyssey, which has been one of our most successful cars, winning several awards in Australia and Car of the Year (Automotive Researchers and Journalists Conference) 1994 in Japan. I am delighted this new model has continued to be a favorite among the motoring critics – it is certainly a favorite among buyers.

“With superb driving enjoyment, advanced styling, comfort and comprehensive safety features, the 2009 Honda Odyssey is the ultimate family car,” he added.

With the introduction of the fourth-generation version in April 2009, Honda aimed to improve the already successful Odyssey revealing a more stylish, spacious and powerful model that proves this car is more than just a people mover.

The 2009 Odyssey features a more powerful engine (132kW), improved safety, visibility, versatility and outstanding fuel economy (8.91/100km), along with all the quality aspects of the previous model.

The Odyssey has a 2.4L DOHC i-VTEC engine coupled to a 5-speed automatic transmission with Grade Logic Control and Shift Hold. With tilt and telescopic steering and double wishbone suspension, its drivability and handling are more car-like than ever.

The 2009 Odyssey also features the highest level of safety, with six airbags and Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) for the first time.

As with every Honda, passenger safety is an important consideration and the Odyssey is fitted with 3-point seatbelts in all seven positions and active front seat head restraints.

Featuring slim-line ‘A’ pillars, the 2009 Odyssey provides the driver with a panoramic front view and improved overall visibility.

Motion Adaptive Electric Power Steering (MAE) is also standard across the range.

Inside, the Odyssey sets a new standard in styling and comfort with the unique ‘V’ shape seating structure, providing all passengers with a clear view forward.

Contributing to its car-like appeal, the all-new Odyssey’s advanced styling makes the fourth-generation model more masculine and sporty.