Dallas Honda Odyssey Dealer
Reader’s Question:
What makes the 2008 Honda Odyssey, the most practical and safest vehicle to buy especially for my kids?
Jeremie
Dallas, TX
The brakes work perfectly. Each and Every Odyssey is packaged with anti-lock brakes (ABS) and Vehicle Stability Assist, Honda’s electronic stability control system. This VSA system works together with the drive-by-wire accelerator and ABS which modulates the brakes while managing the accelerator and ignition. If the vehicle starts to lose grip on a tight turn on a wet and slippery surface, the system automatically slows the engine and gently applies brakes to help keep the vehicle from railing out of control. In a test on a soaking skid pad, we found the system works efficiently. It only works in emergency handling situations so it’s not distracting during normal spirited driving. It can be turned off, although we recommend not doing so.
We don’t have any criticism about noise while driving any of the Odyssey models. The Touring model and the EX-L benefit from extra high-tech noise-decreasing features. When the iVTEC engine with VCM is running on three cylinders there is an imbalance, though it is very common, which produce drumming sounds and vibrations. To reverse this, the engine is mounted on special active control engine that electronically adjust themselves to avoid or lessen engine vibrations. Booming sounds are reduced by an active noise control system which automatically sends an out-of-phase sound through the speaker system to eliminate engine noises; it also works when the engine is idling.
Cruising with the Odyssey along the freeways of Dallas had never been this smooth.
2008 Honda Odyssey Dallas dealer
Reader’s Question:
My dad recently purchased a 2008 Honda Odyssey. I am quite impressed with the features, but tell me, how would you describe its tire endurance?
Patrick
Dallas, TX
Honda Odyssey runs on a Michelin’s PAX run tire system. Michelin’s PAX run-flat tire system is offered on the Touring model and it is a truly worthwhile attribute. The Michelin PAX system is far better than the traditional run-flat tires because there is no compelling ride-quality penalty. Run-flat tires have in the past relied on stiff sidewalls to support the car when the air is lost, which usually results in a rough ride. We hardly noticed any difference in ride or handling between Odysseys endowed with PAX and those with standard tires. Michelin’s PAX system uses a solid plastic ring that wraps around the center of the wheel like a rubber band. When reduced or deflated, the tire pushes against it and uses it for support.
In a presentation while driving with a flat tire, we noticed degenerated handling, but the vehicle was still certainly controllable in a safe manner. Honda states that this vehicle can be driven up to 50 mph for 125 miles with its tires flat. The wheels and tires has a special size and require specialized equipment to change, But Michelin says it has a set mounted within 12 hours within 125 miles of almost anywhere in the U.S. From a practical viewpoint, that should work fine because you still can drive on the flat until the new tire comes in. You will not be able to buy just any tire when you want to replace these due to the special wheels, but Michelin makes great tires and its older tires are readily obtainable so this should not be concern after all. Stopping for a flat tire in the busy streets of Dallas, can put family members at risk to other vehicles or to criminals while standing helpless on the side of the road, so we see run-flat tires as a safety feature.
2008 Honda Odyssey Dallas Texas
Reader’s Question:
I’m not really a fan of Honda, but I’ve heard that their latest minivan is impressive. Is that true? What makes it different from the Accord?
Jason
Dallas, TX
Honda’s main objective with Odyssey is to produce a minivan with the handling of a European sedan, and it has not missed the mark by much. The Odyssey offers everything you could ask for in a minivan: a nice and smooth ride, responsive handling, stability, speed and a smooth, powerful engine.
The Odyssey besieges its size on the road and handles like a sedan. It’s not as dynamic as a European sports sedan, by any chance, but it handles far better than any traditional SUV. It is best compared to the newer crossover SUVs. We find it impressive to drive around town or for long drives.
The Odyssey offered a perfectly pleasant ride during a test drive along country roads in Dallas, Texas. Considering, there is some road vibration. And there is some lax in the steering on-center: You can turn the steering wheel a few degrees in either direction before the vehicle starts to move. Generally, the Honda Odyssey is a good vehicle .It has impressive performance and perfect for out of state or long drives. You may want to check your Honda Dealers in Dallas for a test drive and quotation.
