Honda seems to be performing a dance of the seven veils with its 2011 Odyssey minivan. The first veil dropped in February at the 2010 Chicago Auto Show, when Honda revealed the 2011 model in its concept form. Now, some four months later, additional facts have been uncovered via a more-detailed online introduction to the Odyssey’s highest-end trim: the Touring Elite. Obviously, the experts did not have the opportunity to test the minivan’s driving feel and handling – traditionally the Odyssey’s greatest strengths, and the ones that will ultimately decide how the van measures up against its chief competitors: the Toyota Sienna, Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan.

According to Honda, the 2011 Odyssey will be the first developed by Honda engineers in the United States, and all 2011 models will be built exclusively at a Honda plant in Alabama. The company highlights the fact that many of the engineers working on the redesign are longtime Odyssey owners themselves, and were therefore able to draw on first-hand knowledge of the vehicle. Honda also recognizes its clientele, expressing a desire to retain the Baby Boomer patrons who helped to build the popularity of the model, while luring new Generation Y consumers. The company plans to accomplish this not only by maintaining fuel economy, safety, quality and reliability, but also by focusing on three areas in the Odyssey’s redesign: making the minivan more intuitive, functional and comfortable.

The 2011 Honda Odyssey will run on a 3.5-liter i-VTEC V6 engine with three-mode Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) on all trims. Previously available only on high-end trims, the VCM improves fuel efficiency by reducing the number of cylinders in use when demand is lighter. While Honda has not provided specific horsepower and torque numbers, preliminary reviews anticipate figures close to last year’s 244 hp and 240 lb-ft. The new Odyssey will also likely run on a six-speed automatic transmission based on the Touring Elite’s preliminary estimated 19 mpg city and 28 mpg highway (an increase over last year’s 17/25 ratings). The 2011 Odyssey should remain front-wheel drive only (with Honda offering all-wheel drive on the Pilot SUV). While Honda is keeping mum about its suspension, predictions suggest that the minivan will continue to run on MacPherson struts in the front and double-wishbone independent suspension in the rear.

Lightning bolt, lightning bolt, and have we mentioned, lightning bolt? Honda is strongly promoting its new “lightning bolt design” on the exterior of the 2011 Odyssey. The new line created along the side of the minivan, where the windows meet the metal, somewhat resembles the zigzag of a bolt of lightning and reflects Honda’s desire to offer a more modern, sporty and stylish flair. From a practical standpoint, this feature allows third-row passengers a more spacious outside view by lowering the window line. Honda also claims that the modern look of the lightning bolt will help owners distinguish their distinctively designed minivan from a sea of clones in the parking lot. In fact, the development team originally called the new look “100 meter styling,” since they wanted consumers to recognize the Odyssey from 100 meters away.

A new lower and wider profile for the minivan also contributes to Honda’s push for a sportier look. The roofline has dropped 1.6 inches lower than the 2010 Odyssey EX's, and the vehicle will now be 1.4 inches wider. This not only increases interior space, but also improves aerodynamics, which should translate to better mileage.

The Touring Elite will offer high-intensity discharge headlights, power side mirrors with integrated turn signals and a power tailgate. 18-inch alloy wheels will be standard on the high-end trim, as will larger 12.6-inch ventilated brakes.

The interior of the Touring Elite trim continues the 2011 Odyssey’s improved comfort, functionality and intuitive design. Accommodating up to eight people, front-seat passengers will ride in leather-trimmed, heated captain’s chairs and gain almost 1 extra inch of shoulder room (due to the widening of the overall body). A new 10-way power lumbar adjustment in the drivers’ seat and additional padding in the door lining upper and armrests were also designed to improve comfort. Storage compartments should be ample, including 15 cupholders throughout the vehicle, a “Media Tray” for cell phones and MP3 players and even a “Cool Box” area to keep drinks and snacks chilled while the engine is running. A new, removable center console allows for easier access to the second row or for hauling long items, and its hidden storage area will keep larger items (such as a purse) out of sight.

The second row will now operate in three different configurations. The standard arrangement folds down the center seat (offering cupholders) to leave two captain’s chairs. In “wide mode,” the center seat is unfolded, and the two bucket seats can slide out towards the doors, adding 4 inches of space to the center seat. This allows three child safety seats to be installed, each with its own seat anchors. The third seating arrangement is designed for two child car seats, with a “comfort slide” feature in the center seat that allows it to be moved almost 6 inches closer to the front of the vehicle (for easier pacifier reinsertion). Other family-friendly amenities in the second row include a new “Trash Ring” feature. Flipping up or down on the rear of the center console, the ring will securely hold a standard plastic shopping bag to create an in-van trash can, reducing cleanups after long road trips. Honda also proves its child-friendliness with the new 16.2-inch Ultra-Wide Rear Entertainment System, which can split the screen in half and allow two separate inputs (eliminating the need for siblings to reach consensus on movie selection).

Honda states that, while the second row is designed for three car seats, the third row is designed to accommodate three adult passengers comfortably. The third row offers an integrated sunshade (also standard for the second row). Whether adults or older children ride in the back, HDMI (high-definition multimedia interface) and RCA jacks, as well as a 150-watt power outlet will allow for entertainment options on a trip. The vehicle will also come with an AM/FM/XM/CD premium audio system with 12 speakers and Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System with Voice Activation. Honda explains it increased third-row space by keeping the motor for the sliding door below shoulder height, but although legroom was increased by 1 inch and a center armrest was added, reviews remain skeptical of Honda’s claims of improved adult comfort for long rides.

Unfortunately, in the course of dishing up details about the Touring Elite, Honda continues to play a bit coy about other trims. While Honda begins to tantalize its audience with the newly redesigned 2011 Odyssey, much remains unknown, especially information about additional trims and, more important, the new minivan’s handling and drivability. No doubt more will be exposed as the anticipated fall release date draws closer.