Overview & Reviews

Why are Honda vehicles so highly regarded by American drivers? Certainly, their excellent reputation for reliability and quality is a major factor. But it also has to do with the overall driving and owning experience. Read any Honda review and you'll likely notice common themes such as thoughtful design, a friendly nature, better-than-average fuel economy and attention to safety.

Japan-based Honda Motor Company was founded in 1948 by Soichiro Honda. The company got its start making motorbikes. Japan had been rendered cash poor and fuel-starved after World War II, and its citizens were hurting for an inexpensive, fuel-efficient mode of transportation. Honda's first motorcycles mated engines with bicycles to create a motorbike that was cheap to make and operate.

Honda's bikes quickly evolved into vehicles far more sophisticated than small engines stuck into bicycle frames. The manufacturer's 1949 D-Type could reach speeds of up to 50 mph, and offered front and rear suspension. The 1950s saw the launch of the successful Juno scooter, built to steal market share from the Vespa knockoffs that were popular in Japan at that time. In the latter part of that decade, Honda introduced the ultra-successful C100 Super Cub. The motorbike was remarkably easy to operate and featured a crossbar-free frame that made it popular with women. It went on to become the first Honda motorbike sold in the U.S. via then-new American Honda Co. in 1959.

By the early 1960s, Honda had built its first automobiles for the Japanese home market and entered Formula One racing. But it wasn't until 1970 that it exported its first car, the diminutive N600, to the U.S. The automaker initially had a hard time sparking interest among American buyers, but that all changed in 1973 with the introduction of the Civic. The car was larger than Honda's previous models even though it was still very petite compared to compact American cars. The Civic's high fuel efficiency (an important selling point given that decade's energy crisis) and affordability made it Honda's first American success story. By 1976, the Civic had been joined by the Accord, which quickly became a favorite with U.S. consumers as well.

By the 1980s, Honda's success and its reputation as a maker of well-built reliable cars and motorcycles continued to grow. It began building Accords in the U.S. in 1982 and by 1989 had earned the distinction of making America's most popular car. This was also the decade in which Honda created the Acura brand as a way to sell more upscale and luxurious vehicles. Throughout this decade and into the 1990s, the Civic and Accord were huge sellers and considered class benchmarks. Also during this time, Honda continued to innovate through such technologies as variable valve timing, aluminum body construction and improved safety features.

Today, Honda's lineup runs the gamut. Included are fuel-sipping hybrids, a spacious minivan, reliable family sedans, practical SUVs and even a pickup. Although the latest Civic and Accord aren't quite the benchmarks they once were for their respective classes, Honda's brand as a whole continues to be one of the most well respected in the industry, with millions of loyal and satisfied customers.

User Reviews:

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  I love mine! - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By storylady - March 19 - 2:00 am

  The cup holders are awesome - theyre everywhere. I know this sounds trivial but it is the feature that I like best. So many people have told me what an awesome van I have. I love the remote opening side doors - a feature that I thought I wouldnt use. It rides like a dream.

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  Honda Odyssey for Seniors - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Alsgal - March 19 - 2:00 am

  Although weve had our Odyssey for less than a month, it has proved to be everything we wanted in a mini-van. I have some mobility problems, but this van is much easier for me to get into and out of because it sits a little lower to the ground. I have real difficulty getting into our friends Chrysler (a bigger step up). Another friend has a Toyota Previa and that is also harder to get into.

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  From Sports Car to MiniVan - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By CJS - March 19 - 2:00 am

  A new job required that I purchase a minivan for hauling medical equipment. I just couldnt imagine getting rid of my sporty little car in exchange for what I thought would be a cumbersome boat. Much to my surprise, the odyssey has proved me wrong. It is very easy to drive and ride is remarkably comfortable. The easy conversion features make it fantastic for hauling equipment AND people. Its unbelievably spacious! I LOVE MY ODYSSEY!

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  Great Odyssey - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By drcampbell - March 19 - 2:00 am

  Very fun to drive. Plenty of power. Great for the family. Good value.

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  Love my honda and Orr Honda - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Orr`s No. one fan - March 19 - 2:00 am

  GREAT POWER!!! Lots of room, like this seat alot better than the others very easy to use, not confusing packages like the toyota has... very very quite

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  Love My Odyssey - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Mfeldman - March 19 - 2:00 am

  This is my first minivan....I have been driving Volvos for the past 6 years and was worried about the feel of such a large car. I had nothing to worry about. The Odyssey handles beautifully, is roomy, and I love the fold down third row.... By far, this is the best car I have yet owned! I love my Odyssey!

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  Cant go wrong with an Odyssey - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By dlangill - March 19 - 2:00 am

  The Odyssey has lived up to its name. I chose a Honda because of the reputation. I have had no problems at all in the 9 months that Ive owned it. Its gone on many long drives, including Canada (starting point: NC) Its greatest cosmetic features are the "disappearing rear seat" and all of the cupholders. It does lack some of the many compartments that other minivans supply (could use a good place for loose change). It will be even more popular once they install the split 3rd row seat. As expected, you cant go wrong with a Honda.

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  Our 2nd Odyssey - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Ereedtx - March 19 - 2:00 am

  We are on our second Odyssey, having leased the first one in 2001. We have also owned Caravans and Voyagers. This is by far the best minivan weve ever owned. It is comfortable, gets decent mileage and weve never had any major mechanical problems with them. The dropdown rear seat is one of the best features Ive ever seen in a minivan. I would highly recommend this car.

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  Odyssey - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By col - March 19 - 2:00 am

  I am so glad we bought the Honda. Even though we did pay sticker we are thrilled with our van. This is our first van and the performance of the engine with 240 horse power is great. No need to worry about getting up those mountains on our way to Florida. Our next van will be a Honda. I also liked that there wasnt a ton of bells and whistles on the dash or headliner. Just the basics.

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  reliable and sturdy - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By navidad - March 19 - 2:00 am

  I am very happy with my Odyssey -- First of all I feel very safe being such a sturdy auto. The seats are so comfortable that you dont mind taking long drives (guests have said this too!). The navigational system has allowed me the freedom to go places I would never attempt by myself. I highly recommend this vehicle!