Honda's version of the minivan hits showrooms this year with very few changes from last year's model. The 2009 Honda Odyssey is only one year removed from the total face lift that it received a year ago. With a base price of around $26,000, the Odyssey is among the upper end of the minivan market. It also offers plenty of options to choose from with its four different trim levels. The only changes for this model year include a power lift gate on the Touring trim, and expanded connectivity for the majority of an individual's traveling electronics.

The interior of the 2009 Odyssey offers all of the "must haves" for anyone who is interested in a minivan, including seating for up to eight passengers, and plenty of family oriented gadgets. Many of these features, including DVD entertainment center and navigation system, are standard on the upper end Touring model. The LX, EX, and EX-L are the other three trim levels.

Honda's forward thinking engineering is clearly seen when you pop the hood of the 2009 Odyssey. The first two trim options (LX, EX) come equipped with a 244 HP 3.5L V6 engine. The EX-L and Touring models have been outfitted with the Variable Cylinder Management system. This will allow the engine to switch from six to four to three cylinders, depending on what the conditions are. Obviously, this will help out quite a bit with fuel economy.

The exterior is what you would expect from a minivan, including power sliding doors on both sides. Even though vans are not the coolest looking vehicles, the 2009 Odyssey is much easier on the eyes than most.

Since the Odyssey is hailed as a family vehicle; it also offers all of the safety features that you would want for your family. In addition to antilock brakes, it has side impact and curtain airbags. Also standard is traction control and Honda's electronic stability system. Tire pressure monitoring and active head restraints are also included.

The 2009 Honda Odyssey is a strong addition to the minivan class and should help the automaker stay competitive with its rivals. With many automakers abandoning the minivan game, it should be that much easier for this model to continue into the future. Even though many people were turning to SUVs, with the current worries of fuel consumption, there should always be a market for the safety and convenience that a minivan, such as the Odyssey, provides.