Hot off the heals of its world debut at the 2010 Chicago Auto Show, the 2011 Honda Odyssey heads to showrooms this month. With fresh exterior and interior styling, more power and additional features Honda is hoping the new Odyssey will meet the needs of existing owners and maintain its benchmark status in the minivan segment.

Odyssey not only competes with true minivans like the Chrysler Town & Country, Dodge Caravan, Kia Sedona and Toyota Sienna, but it also must do battle with seven-passenger crossover SUVs like the Chevrolet Traverse, GMC Acadia, Hyundai Vera Cruz, and Mazda CX-9.

Dimensionally, the 2011 Honda Odyssey is very similar to the model it replaces. The biggest differences are width and height. The changes are much more significant on the inside where the all-new interior features an available 16.2-inch rear-seat video screen.

Five models are offered, all come standard with front-wheel drive. LX, EX, EX-L and Touring return from last year. New for 2011 is the Touring Elite trim level. All are powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 248 horsepower. That's up four from last year. The engine mates to a five-speed automatic on LX, EX and EX-L models. Touring and Touring Elite get a new six-speed automatic. All models get Honda's variable cylinder management system that is designed to improve fuel economy when cruising or coasting. Towing capacity is 3500 pounds.

Standard safety features on all Odyssey models includes ant ilock brakes with electronic brake assist, stability control, tire-pressure monitoring system, front-seat active head restraints and dual-front, front-side, curtain-side airbags. Navigation equipped models get a rear-view camera. A blind spot detection system is standard on the Touring Elite, but not offered on other models. The Honda Odyssey is positioned well in the mini van market will style, comfort and seating capacity. Honda has created a nice option for the mid sized family.