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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  Lots of room! - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By Cptn EO - January 24 - 10:00 am

  Lots of room, good gas milage, plenty of storage compartments, 9 cup holders. I have a bad back with 3 lower disc herniated and the comfort of the seats are unmatched. I would highly recommend this suv to anyone looking for a mid size car.

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  Fun to Pilot - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By Pilotee - January 24 - 10:00 am

  I am 62" and I fit in the Pilot. I did not fit in the Subaru. I liked the Subaru Wagon but after an hour of driving I started complaining. We wanted all=wheel and I wanted to be comfortable. The Pilot was perfect and I love the interior design. Pilot handles like a sports car. My commuter car is a 1987 Honda Accord w/187000 and it is more comfortable than the Subaru. I keep my vehicles for a long time and I purchased the Honda reputation. My 87 Accord has always started on the first time. My expectation is very high for the Pilot.

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  Best car I ever owned - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By marquel - January 24 - 10:00 am

  In on word WOW!

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  First 1000 mile thoughts - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By Huskerguy - January 24 - 10:00 am

  I am impressed so far. Great value for what it costs (if that is possible these days). Compared to Envoy, Trailblazer, Ranier and others. Lots of room all around inside with great storage. Nice and quiet, well built and tight. Handles like a dream. It takes on the rough roads with ease. Seats are a bit stiff and made my butt sore after 8 hours of driving. Generally great appointments in the interior. No big bells and whistles which keeps the price down. The 5 spd tranny is super smooth. Engine is adequate, another 10- 20 HP would be nice. Hoping for mid 20s on gas. Had 21+ and 23 so far.

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  New Owner - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By harrisonc2000 - January 24 - 10:00 am

  Recently purchased the CRV (2nd honda bought). Only had it a week and I love it. The ride is so smooth, and power is wonderful on the highway. And the purchase was a breeze (Jay Wolfe Honda of Kansas City, MO)

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  My Honda - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By Suferdudejs - January 24 - 10:00 am

  Best on the market, for your money. Very reliable, great fuel economy and a blast to operate.

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  I love this car! - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By Hagen - January 24 - 10:00 am

  As has been my experience purchasing other new Hondas, this one was in perfect condition. No rattles, no broken controls, etc. We opted to not get AWD since we never have to drive in snow or ice, but we did opt for the side air bags. It is fun to drive, ample pick-up merging, and very roomy. Ive purchased the cover for the rear storage area, and the shopping bag holder (from an Internet supplier at discount prices) and theyre great to have. Ive driven about 1000 miles so far and have no complaints whatsoever. Makes me never want to buy anything else again but Hondas! By the way, Id read some discussion about the rear door opening from the driver

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  defective alternator - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By jbg - January 24 - 10:00 am

  went on short trip to michigan nonstop and when restarted 15 minutes later had total electrical failure. Honda dealership in benton harbor was of no help insolving problem.They said i left lights on and jumped car.My dealer in countryside il found problem after leaving car run for several hours.Hope this is only problem i have since i really enjoy this auto.

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  Beautiful - 2004 Honda Accord
  By unparh - January 24 - 10:00 am

  Excellent car. One needs to drive honda to believe what it is. Best of Best.

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  1993 Prelude Si - 1993 Honda Prelude
  By KW93LUDE - January 24 - 2:00 am

  Great car ride is low makes u feel apart of the road "True Sports Car"