Honda Odyssey Concept Reveals Stylish, Dynamic Image for All-New Minivan

Next-generation Odyssey adds sleek styling, new functionality and higher fuel economy

CHICAGO , Feb. 10 /CNW/ - The Honda Odyssey Concept, on display at the Chicago Auto Show, introduces a sleek and distinctive exterior styling direction for the next generation Honda Odyssey minivan, set to debut in North America this fall.

The Odyssey Concept dramatically departs from conventional minivan styling with its low and wide stance, highlighted by a "lightning-bolt" beltline that further distinguishes the vehicle's profile. Compared to the current Odyssey, the Concept's slightly lower roofline (-25 mm) and wider stance (+36 mm) contribute to a sleeker, stronger and more dynamic presence with improved aerodynamics that help increase fuel economy.

Forthcoming improvements to the production Odyssey's interior are designed to further enhance the current model's accommodating space for people and cargo.

"The Odyssey established its reputation by providing Canadian families with what they most want in a minivan - great functionality, an emphasis on safety, convenience and fuel efficiency," according to Jerry Chenkin, executive vice president of Honda Canada Inc. "Odyssey has gained a high degree of popularity with its fun-to-drive and dynamic nature. The next-generation Odyssey promises to take these strengths to a higher level, while adding more style and personality."

The steeply raked front and rear roof pillars, unique side-glass profile, chamfered roof line, and tapered rear cabin shape combine to create a dynamic and distinctive appearance from any perspective. The lightning-bolt beltline dives toward the rear of the vehicle emphasizing the new Odyssey's sporty appearance while enhancing outward visibility for third-row passengers. Aggressive body-to-wheel proportions reduce the perception of vertical height common to most minivan designs.

Fender flares further accent the vehicle's securely planted and stylish persona. The concept vehicle's projector beam headlights, LED taillights and form-fit fog lights further heighten the sophisticated quality of the design.

Enhanced aerodynamics and advanced powertrain technologies will contribute to the next-generation Odyssey's increased fuel efficiency. The all-new 2011 Odyssey will achieve improved fuel economy ratings compared to the current model.

Currently in its third generation, the Odyssey's unique array of features, including its superior driving dynamics, 3rd-Row Magic Seat(R) and efficient i-VTEC(TM) V-6 engine with three-mode Variable Cylinder Management(TM) (available) that combine to offer a sophisticated environment with room for up to eight people. Both the concept and production vehicles, along with all development activity for the 2011 Odyssey, are being designed at Honda R&D Americas in Torrance, California, and Raymond, Ohio.

The Odyssey has won numerous awards and critical acclaim. Accolades for the current model include the 2005 Canadian Truck of the Year awarded when it first came to market by the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC) and the Automotive Lease Guide 2010 "Best Minivan for the Money," among many other awards.

    
                  Honda Odyssey Concept - Basic Dimensions:
                  -----------------------------------------
                      Length             5151 mm (202.8")
                  -----------------------------------------
                      Width              1994 mm (78.5")
                  -----------------------------------------
                      Height             1735 mm (68.3")
                  -----------------------------------------
                    Wheelbase            2999 mm (118.1")
                  -----------------------------------------
    

Honda Canada Inc. has sold more than 3,300,000 Honda and Acura passenger cars and light-duty trucks in Canada over the past 37 years. A record high 91 per cent of the Honda and Acura vehicles sold in Canada in 2009 were produced at the company's assembly plants in North America , up nearly 3 per cent from 2008. In addition, 52 per cent of all Honda and Acura vehicles sold in Canada last year were built at the two Honda of Canada Mfg. plants in Alliston, Ontario.

For further information: Richard Jacobs, [phone]