This is my first minivan. End of an era of "cool cars" for me, or is it?

Needing plenty of hauling capacity (newborn twin girls) and wanting the most new van I could get, I started my research with two top selling minivans in mind: Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna.

After test driving both, and checking out web sites/forums for research and opinions there was a clear winner: The Odyssey with Touring trim -- and navigation and DVD.

Sure, it cost way more than all others, but it was more responsive to drive. It also offered other features not on the Toyota such as run-flat tires ("who wants to change tires in the rain? Not me. Sold."), cylinder deactivation (more MPG), roll down windows with shades built-in the door. It was a done deal.

Now that we've had it for just over 2 years, the navigation really pays off (no need to print out Google Maps, and you can even look up destinations on the way like restaurants or hotels), the DVD player is the "backseat parent", and the seating flexibility has been very handy. Plus, no mechanical issues.

Now, if I could only find some chrome spinners for the run-flats...

The first generation Odyssey is a great choice for our small - 4 person family. We can haul 4 people and a lot of gear, or 6 people and a good amount of gear - a large stroller and beach gear for 5+ people.

The 6 passenger version is easy to get around in - walking back through the seats makes access to the very back easy.

The back seat is incredibly easy to drop down into the floor, and the middle seats are easy to remove.

The small size makes it really easy to drive and park.

The kids like it much better than our previous sedan.

The in-town mileage is about 22, but we recently got 28 mpg on a road trip.

All in all, a great choice!

Was able to test drive vehicle before I bid on it because seller was local and only 30 minutes away. He was very helpful with expediting transaction.

There is no chance of dislike of what I got. I got a awesome van I had dreamt about with a little price. Thanks.

I decided to purchase on line thru E-Bay because I could not find a Honda Odyssey anywhere around that I could afford. I had a GREAT experience! I will purchase my next car in the same way and would recommend E-Bay to everyone!

This is a wonderful vehicle and does everything I expected it to do. I would definately purchase it again at the price I paid. I do believe the sticker price is way too high. There are many options I think that could be added and improvements that should be made if only Honda would call me and ask. :o) The main problem with this vehicle is fuel economy and this is a big issue if you drive alot. At 5,600 lbs it gets only about 16 mpg city and 20 hwy. You may get a little if you drive below 65 mph but that won't help city milage. If fuel economy is not your main concern then this is a great family vehicle.

I've owned foreign made cars for a long time and after looking at the domestic brands decided once again to go foreign. Ford Windstar, Dodge Caravan, and Chevy Uplander just felt plastic and tinny...like they would fall apart next week. I bought this van because it was a good price for a Honda. They are the most expensive, but I think they're worth it. The Toyota wasn't as roomy but we did like that it didn't feel like a van, and the Mazda felt as small as our highlander. I have no complaints...average about 23 mpg. I have the EX model that uses REGULAR tires which is a must unless you have wads of cash to throw away. The one thing a don't like is the clearance...it rides really low and sometimes my shins get hit by the driver and passenger doors.

Nice car with only minor glitches. E-bay blocked my attempts to write a favorable review on the seller - and gave me no reason why.

So easy to maintain and retains its value very well.
I like this model better than the 1999 & up model.

What i like about the vehicle that i bough, is that front out side it look okey, but, went i took it home it has electrical problem. in which i had to give it a boost most of the would died on me the next day. In addition, the person from whom i bought the vehicle was different from tittle of vehicle. furthermore, the vehicle was stolen in from of my house and i had do a police report on it.