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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  Love those Hondas! - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By JGerney - March 19 - 2:00 am

  The Honda Van was an excellent purchase. Features we really like include 2 adapters, bucket seats in the middle, adjustable drivers seat, 2 sliding doors, and many more. Irecomment it to everyone I know!

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  Thank God I bought the Odyssey! - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Odysseylover - March 19 - 2:00 am

  We have had our Odyssey for almost 5 mos. now and we love it. I was against a minivan for the longest time, but I dont feel like Im driving one. It is a very smooth ride and extremely comfortable and roomy inside. The leather is definately the way to go, it cleans up great and is much better looking than the upholstery option. We love the fold down 3rd row seat and the dual auto doors. We couldnt be happier with our purchase!

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  Excellent vehicle - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By honda mom - March 19 - 2:00 am

  The very best out there.

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  Excellent. I swear by it. - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Lesisbest - March 19 - 2:00 am

  This is the best driven van Ive ever had. It drives smoothly and yet has a lot of force. Breaks, stearing, comfort and much more to offer. I tell everyone that Hondas are the best ever cars/vans to own.

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  King of the class -- trade HP for MPG! - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By GurneeJohn - March 19 - 2:00 am

  This is the best car in its class since the Toyota Previa was replaced by the Sienna. Except for VW Vanogon/Eurovan it has the most interior volume. For most uses it is now overpowered, and needs to get better mileage! Ride, handling, road feel are excellent. Interior is #1. 2nd row seatside cup holders are nice adds.

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  Honda! - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Chel - March 19 - 2:00 am

  At Gwinnett Place honda they were such nice people to work with. If you are considering the Odyessey you should definately go there to get a great customer service experience.

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  Odyssey - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Victor Schaff - March 19 - 2:00 am

  This is a very well designed vehicle. We do not know how we got along before we bought it. We love every Honda product we have owned and wish the Odyssey was offered in AWD when we bought it.

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  Well Satisfied - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Babu - March 19 - 2:00 am

  Overall Best in its class and am very satisfied

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  The Best Minivan Out There! - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By 0zfan22 - March 19 - 2:00 am

  I havc owned a Dodge Caravan, Chevy Astro Van, Toyota Van and this is by far the best van I have ever owned

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  Best Family Purchase - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By ladyellison - March 19 - 2:00 am

  We love this vehicle! Thought we could make do with our Grand Cherokee, but it just didnt cut it for convenience especially if you have an infant or toddler. This is our favorite purchase by far.