The Odyssey, or Shuttle as it is also known, is actually one vehicle badge, covering 2 quite different vehicle platforms. The small JDM Odyssey, sold around the world, and the bigger North American Odyssey, released in Japan under the Honda LaGreat badge. Sold in Japan from 1994, and the U.S. market since 1995, this Compact MPV evolved in the US market to become a minivan, or large MPV.

The first generation, the RA1-RA5 chassises, were released in 1994, and were very similar to the USDM version, released the following year. The 4WD and powerful 3.0 K30A engine made it extremely practical and versatile, and it was even used as a taxi vehicle. The Odysseys in Japan featured a double-air conditioning system, separate for the front and rear seats.

The 2nd. generation, 1999 model year Odysseys used the RA6-RA9 chassis. This new model marked a big upgrade over the 1. gen., being remarkably bigger. The base-engine was a 2.3 L 4-cylinder engine, the F23A, and the J30A 3.0 L VTEC V6 engine, outputting an additional 10 hp, a total of 210 hp. The 2000 Odyssey was the first Honda to receive a 5-speed automatic transmission. An Absolute version, tuned by Mugen also appeared as a dealer option, with improved suspension, bigger wheels and changes to the interior and exterior.

The 3rd. gen. JDM Odyssey was a complete redesign. Released in 2003, the Odyssey was still a 5-door body car, but it was much slimmer, lower and generally closer to a normal car. The 4 wheel drive version received an upgraded DPS system. The engine was a Honda 2.4 L K24A i-VTEC engine, outputting 160 hp (118 kW). A V6 engine was no longer offered, but the sporty Absolute received an upgraded K24A with a 200 hp (147 kW) power output. The 3rd. gen. chassis was called the RB1 & RB2.

In 2008, the fourth generation Odyssey hit the JDM market. Known as the RB3 & RB4. Honda intends to keep the 2008 model's 5-door body style and the four cylinder engine layout for its 2009 and 2010 model Odysseys, meaning many interchangeable parts between the three production years. An Absolute version was also offered for this generation, with 4WD and 5 speed automatic transmission.

The Odyssey is a mainstay to tuners in the van tuning industry. Customization parts such as Aero and Suspension are plentiful, making the Odyssey an easy to tune car for VIP/Spo-Con style. Great looking tuned examples are easily seen daily in the streets of Japan, and popularity continues to stay strong with each new generation of Honda's flagship minivan.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Odyssey