Classic Honda - Cleveland & Akron Honda Dealer

CHICAGO -- Honda showed off a concept version of the 2011 Honda Odyssey minivan at the 2010 Chicago Auto Show Wednesday.

 

Though not the actual production version of the van, the Odyssey Concept is a good indication of the new minivan that will appear in showrooms this fall.

 

The new Odyssey has been designed and engineered in the United States and will be built at Honda's Alabama manufacturing plant.

 

The interior of the minivan hasn't been finalized yet, but it's expected to offer more room than the current Odyssey.

 

According to a Honda press release, "The next-generation Odyssey will further enhance its hallmark qualities of innovation, quality, safety and fun-to-drive character, while increasing its overall efficiency."

 

Honda first introduced the Odyssey in 1995. Back then, the minivan was based on the popular Accord sedan and was available with only a 4-cylinder engine. Unlike conventional minivans, the original Odyssey's rear doors opened like a car's doors instead of sliding back as most vans' doors operate.

 

The Odyssey underwent a major redesign for the 1999 model year. The minivan grew substantially in size and now offered a V-6 engine and conventional sliding minivan doors.

 

The minivan was last redesigned for the 2005 model year. That generation sported the top-of-the-line Touring model which featured extra amenities.