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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  Honda Pilot rocks! - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By RoyMac - December 29 - 2:00 am

  I have had this vehicle for 7 months and it has been flawless in every way.

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  Lousy Gas Mileage - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By jdh75 - December 29 - 2:00 am

  The Pilot seems well made, handles well, and has good features such as 8 passenger seating and fold down seats for carrying bulky loads from home depot. However, gas mileage around town has been terrible- 10 to 12 miles to the gallon is all we can get! Its a gas hog and I would not have bought it had I known of this. The pilot was leased and the dealership changed the sales price(cap cost)between the time we negotiated the deal and when we came to sign the lease. They flat out lied and tried to snow us when we were signing the lease. I would never again trade with this dealership, White Plains Honda.

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  Honda Pilot - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By Punzie - December 29 - 2:00 am

  The 2004 Honda Pilot is a fun vehicle to drive. Though we only bought it a month ago and with 1010 miles on it I would rate the vehicle a 10. The engine is quiet, the ride is very comfortable, the 240 hp engine feels like an engine with a higher hp. Great passenger space that sits 8. Under the hood is a very clean set up of its engine, etc. The leather trimmings quality of work is excellent compared to American made SUV crossovers with comparable features. Overall, I highly recommend the Honda Pilot to motorists who are currently looking to buy a SUV.

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  best suv for its price - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By Mathhew - December 29 - 2:00 am

  this car is great... much better than the toyota highlander.... i love it... i got this car for only 30g... with dvd side bars for the roof rack.... and the side step.....

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  love it - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By cmaners - December 29 - 2:00 am

  I love this vehicle!

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  Its the little stuff - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By sony - December 29 - 2:00 am

  Solid ride, easy to drive, great gas mileage on the highway. Acceleration is surprising for its size.

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  Best SUV Value on the Market - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By Jim C. - December 29 - 2:00 am

  We litteraly drove almost every SUV on the market: Ford, Nissan, Chevy, Dodge, Toyota. In the end, we bought the Pilot for several reasons. When you compare the build quality, features, and long term residual value, especially when you add in the 4WD, it completely beats everything on the market. The ride is outstanding, more like a large comfortable car than a truck, and its wisper quiet. The LX is the best value of all of the models due to the lower initial price, and the same resale value after 5 years as the more expensive models. Plus, the Gray Body side moldings look better!

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  4-wheel Drive Wagon - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By Becca2160 - December 29 - 2:00 am

  Love it. Especially the heated seats. The leather seats are a little stiff, but I expect after a little use theyll loosen up. The dogs love the back end. Dont know about the towing yet, will find out this summer. Plan to do some light off roading in search of a good fishing hole too.

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  GREAT!!!!!!!!!!! - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By nnrgraham - December 29 - 2:00 am

  Rides and handles like a car. Wider than most which is important. Good space and milage for SUV. Hey, its a Honda!

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  vroom vroom - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By derwood - December 29 - 2:00 am

  I like it alot.