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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  Great vehicle - 2004 Honda Element
  By HarmonyTime - August 28 - 10:00 am

  I switched from a Mercedes C220 (which I really liked) to the Element and got an improvement in highway driving comfort. Flexibility and roominess is unmatched. Highway ride much better than my friends Yukon. Right door joint creaks/clinks occasionally on rough road; drivers side totally noiseless.

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  River Vehicle - 2004 Honda Element
  By Sukie - August 28 - 10:00 am

  Bought the Element because we were looking for an alternative to a truck and for something that had pizazz. We haul a lot of stuff back and forth to our river house and needed flexability in loading up the vehicle. Have had Hondas in the past (last vehicle was a Prelude) and the reliabilty overall is excellent from prior experiences.

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  I love my Odyseey - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By vpf143 - August 28 - 10:00 am

  I love my Odyssey!

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  Great Family Car - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By melissa418207 - August 28 - 10:00 am

  We recently bought a Honda Pilot. We could not be happier. My husband and I are in our early 20s and we have 2 children and we where not interested in a mini van because we did not wanna feel older. (not saying anything is wrong with a mini van) This is a very sporty yet comfortable SUV. It is very roomy. We swear by Honda Vehicles. They are very reliable and safe vehicles.

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  I love my Pilot! - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By Khamilton - August 28 - 10:00 am

  The Pilot is an extremely comfortable and useful car. While the gas mileage isnt great, its still a lot better than the average SUV, and anyone with kids should spring for the DVD Entertainment system. Weve never been so comfortable and relaxed while traveling or commuting.

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  I love my Pilot - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By hallahanj - August 28 - 10:00 am

  This is the most fun Ive had driving. The Iowa snow and ice didnt stop this SUV and it rides like a luxury vehicle.

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  What a great car. - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By Pickleballman - August 28 - 10:00 am

  Fun to drive, great handling, roomy, and very comfortable.

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  My Toy - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By tlmorri - August 28 - 10:00 am

  If you are looking for comfort for long trips, THIS IS YOUR vehicle. Especially if you need leg room. Comfort, style, extras available too. Plenty of room for carrying cargo.

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  Mines an03 & Best Car Ive Ever Owned - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By cunever - August 28 - 10:00 am

  Just A Great Vehicle. Can not say enough good things about it. I do not work for Honda. Any questions - e-mail cunever@mindspring.com

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  2004 Honda Pilot review - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By Kathleen D. - August 28 - 10:00 am

  The 2004 Honda Pilot as smooth riding as my previous 3 Honda Accords (of which I still own 2). It drives as nice, or nicer, than all of my Accords.