Following the announcement late last month, Honda has revealed the new Honda Odyssey Concept at this week’s Chicago Auto Show. Already a very successful model in the US (America’s best selling minivan for two consecutive years), the new sleeker concept aims to provide significant improvement in terms of style, design, fuel-efficiency and performance.

Armed with a lower roofline, a wider stance and more streamlined body, the new Odyssey has been designed and built completely in US. “The Odyssey established its reputation by providing families with what they most want in a minivan – great functionality, an emphasis on safety and good fuel economy,” said Vicki Poponi, assistant vice president of American Honda product planning. “Odyssey then further delighted customers with its surprisingly engaging, fun-to-drive and dynamic nature. The next-generation Odyssey promises to take these strengths to a higher level while adding more style and personality.”

Although no technical specifications have been announced yet, it is rumored that the new model shall feature a powerful i-VTEC V6 engine that will improve on the fuel efficiency. The exterior design of the car bears close resemblance to the Mercedes R-Class, with projector beam headlights, LED taillights  and a tapered rear cabin shape. The interior design was not available for display.

The 2011 Honda Odyssey Concept looks ready for production, and should arrive in US showrooms later this year. Honda assures that all the essential features of Odyssey ranging from sophistication to comfort shall reach higher standards with the new model.