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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  Best D*mn Minivan - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Gamecock Odyssey - November 22 - 2:00 am

  Simply the best version of the most practical car on the road.

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  love it - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By clyde693 - November 22 - 2:00 am

  we were looking for a truck or big car to tow a pop up camper with. also to haul more than 5 in the pilot fit the bill to a t towing is fine at 3500lb and able to haul 6 kids and the dog in style.

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  My third Honda is great, too! - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By kidsintow - November 22 - 2:00 am

  Couldnt be a more perfect SUV for hauling kids and feeling safe and comfortable.

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  Pilot review - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By Honda Happy - November 22 - 2:00 am

  Fantastic SUV. My wife and I checked most of the other mid-size SUVs out before deciding the Pilot was easily the one for us. Comfort, third row of seating which comes in handy, and reliabilty all count towards a winning combination. Honda is tough to bargain with due to its popularity but we found one "on the ground" and worked out a deal.

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  Comfortable ride - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By nurseellen - November 22 - 2:00 am

  Great car. First non-American car I have owned. Using the shift takes some getting used to, I have turned on the windshield wipers often instead of putting it in reverse! Seats are comfortable, roomy interior, smooth ride.

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  C R Very Cool - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By PWR - November 22 - 2:00 am

  Love it! A small SUV that feels big with great gas milage.

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  My O4 Civic Ex! - 2004 Honda Civic
  By O4 civic girl - November 22 - 2:00 am

  I love it! Honda has proven once again to make a car that is fun to drive and very reliable. This is my second Civic Ex and I couldnt ask for anything better.

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  Satisfied with reservations - 2004 Honda Accord
  By EdNJ908 - November 22 - 2:00 am

  I bought my 2004 Accord EX V6 after six enjoyable years with my 1998 Accord EX V6. Although the 2004 model has a number of improvements over the 1998, I am concerned that the reliability slipped. My 2004 Accord had a transmission pressure leak which caused the transmission to slip after two weeks in service (500 miles) and required towing to the dealer. It was fixed in two days and I had no problem since. I am keeping my fingers crossed.

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  Excellent Vehicle - 2004 Honda Accord
  By earle - November 22 - 2:00 am

  We have owned this Honda for almost one year and have been very pleased with the performance and reliability. The fuel economy is great and the performance is excellent. We would highly recommend this vehicle to anyone.

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  Great Redesign - 2004 Honda Accord
  By cjm175 - November 22 - 2:00 am

  I see now Honda has gone to the DOHC engine something that Toyota has had for years and atleast for me was the stumbling point on the Honda for me..Toyota always won. But now its hard to beat for the money.. If Honda stays aggressive they will leave Toyota in the dust