· Rollover sensors, for side curtain airbag deployment, and a stability assist feature that uses braking and throttle to control the vehicle.

· An advanced body structure which reduces the concentrated force on impacts by absorbing and dispersing energy via a front frame structure.

· Variable Cylinder Management, which utilizes only the cylinders needed. While accelerating, the Odyssey will use all six cylinders, and at other times will use only three. Reports indicate that Honda engineers have increased the Odyssey's sound dampening while three cylinders are in use. This feature will probably result in a notable increase in gas mileage efficiency.

· The Honda Accord's voice navigation system will be available on the 2005 Honda Odyssey.

· A Honda version of the Chrysler Stow 'n Go configuration, which utilizes floor space as cargo, among other benefits, including one-handed operation and a flip-around rear seat.

· Lots and lots of cupholders.

· Honda will resolve the availability problems that plagued the most recent edition. If so, that will be good news to shoppers and Honda dealers.

More will come later, to be sure, including the official word from Honda. But if what we've heard is accurate so far, Honda has answered its competitors call to action with action of its own - and the result may well be another step up the evolution ladder for minivans, and an increase in the surging popularity of a segment many thought long left for the carmaker's boneyard.