Maybe. I always theorized it was the death of Mr. Honda. But I have no hard evidence.
Soichiro Honda passed away in 1991.
They have made some bulletproof Hondas since that day.
Ito was a disaster for Honda and, due to his policies, many excellent engineers left the company for a better environment.
Since his departure Honda Executives are bringing Honda back to it’s former self.
Do I put my money where my (written) mouth is?
Yes. We love our 2016 Pilot and I’m considering replacing my 2007 Ridgeline with a 2018 Ridgeline. If not next year then in 2019.