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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  Moms Honda - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Mama - March 19 - 2:00 am

  This is my second Honda Odyssey. I currently drive a 2003 that I purchased new in Oct. 2002. I find Hondas to be comfortable, easy handling vehicles.

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  best minivan - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By sweetfire - March 19 - 2:00 am

  sweet ride honda is the best

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

  I love this van! I did not want a minivan at all but this has really fit into our lifestyle well. My kids dont mind being in the car now which is a lifesaver! Very comfortable and you forget that you are driving a van. Doesnt feel "big" at all, but is VERY roomy and comfortable

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  Love that Honda - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Van Heywood - March 19 - 2:00 am

  We love our Honda minivan. It is good looking on the outside and comfortable on the inside. We like all the cup holders, they are convenient. We especially like the folding console between the two front seat. The storage under the passenger seat is a nice little extra. It is nice that there is a shoulder harness for every passenger in the last seat and headrests for each.

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  Honda Odyseey - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By mvs - March 19 - 2:00 am

  Excellent handling, accelleration, and braking. Quiet and comfortable ride for all. Great for getting kids and adults in and out.

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  superb - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By neefbrown - March 19 - 2:00 am

  Everyone needs one of these cars. It is comfortable, safe, and even the seat warmers are standard. Who would have thought we would use seat warmers in Houston, TX! We are on our second Odyessy.

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  Honda Review - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Feldman - March 19 - 2:00 am

  Great vehicle. Reliable, drives great, lots of room, very flexible. Out performs any other vehicle in its class - we drove them all, and the Honda was by far the best.

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  excellent - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By dinky - March 19 - 2:00 am

  wonderful wonderful wonderful vehicle have taken many many trips in this car and have never had a problem.

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  Ive driven them all, Honda best value. - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By bluehorse - March 19 - 2:00 am

  I drive a minivan as my business vehicle. I have driven Fords, Chevrolets and Pontiacs. I test drove the Dodge and the Kia, as well as the older Sienna. This van beats them all as far as performance and reliability. I put over 30,000 miles a year on these vehicles and the Honda has given me absolutely no grief. I cant say that for my other vans. At this point, I had each of the others in the shop for one thing or another. With the exception of oil changes and tire rotations, this van hasnt seen a mechanic. If this is indicative of all Honda vehicles, I can honestly say this will not be my last Honda purchase.

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  Love my Odyssey - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Mr. Smith - March 19 - 2:00 am

  Great car...great handling..drives smooth kids love the vehicle..easy to get in and out.great during bad weather