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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  CUJO has spoken - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By infernalcujo - May 25 - 2:00 am

  Just got it and i love it

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  Odyssey; The Perfect Family Vehicle - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By Rob Borchers - May 25 - 2:00 am

  We knew nothing about the Odyssey until a test drive and ofcourse fell in love with the magic seat as well as many other features. Upon further research we discovered that the Odyssey was more affordable than most other minivans. We have had minimal glitches since purchase, the main problem is the sliding doors sticking. All else we have experienced has been great, the room is awesome and the power is unbelieveable. We are clearly satisfied and are considering getting a second Odyssey soon.

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  Known Mechanical Problems - 2000 Honda Accord
  By M1ke - May 25 - 2:00 am

  This is my first Honda. I have had the car in the shop for front end vibration. Balance and alignment did not fix problem. Car is now in the shop to replace the transmission,(31,000 miles). This is a known problem. Service bulletin has been issued. This make/model also has an intermittant problem with not starting. Sometimes you have to grind the starter and sometimes, you turn the key and nothing happens. This is also a known problem with no fix.(as stated by dealership).

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  A lot of car for the money - 2003 Honda Civic
  By hosimian - May 25 - 2:00 am

  Its a better car than many journalists have suggested. It isnt quite as quick as some of its competition, but thats mostly do to an overly conservative rev limiter that forces the use of third gear to get to 60. What reviewers havent mentioned enough is that this car exudes quality. It is very well made. Sure, its funky looking, but very functional, and still fun. Engine is strong and smooth. The car does everything well. 6 footers can sit in the back seat. Very good crash test scores. Can be had for very good prices.

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  great car - 2003 Honda Civic
  By mr ed - May 25 - 2:00 am

  Great car! Great styling, fun to drive, practical and reliable.

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  my 4th Honda is the best - 2003 Honda Accord
  By lacy - May 25 - 2:00 am

  For the price and after shopping for several different autos, I thought this 2003 EX V6 Sedan has the best bang for the buck. I can not think of another item to add to the interior. My only complaint, which is really small, is the rear exterior view does not match the side or front view. I quess I dislike it the least. The car drives, handles, and is tight. Interior looks like that of a much more expensive brand.

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  Fantastic for the $$ - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Vroom Vroom - May 25 - 2:00 am

  I tried Acura RSX and Toyota Camry before trying the Accord. Won instantly. Love the drive...feels like a luxory car drive, but simple and functional. I feel safe, safe, safe in this car...even in nasty weather. Had a Honda Civic and Acura V6 in the past.

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  Best Car for your money - 2003 Honda Accord
  By brodgua - May 25 - 2:00 am

  I love this car.

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  Still have the vibration problem - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By E Wang - May 24 - 12:10 pm

  We just got this car a week ago. Did not feel anything when test driving it but feel the vibration the day after purchase with only about 100 miles. What we found out is the vibration only happens when the car is in gear at idle. After doing some search on the internet we found a lot of complaints for the 2015 model but not for 2016. The vibration is similar to a lot of comments people said about 2015: only happens at 600-700 rpm after the car is fully warm up. Went back to the dealer twice already and finally got the manager tried it with me and documented the problem. However, we were told this is the characteristic of CR-V and there is no fix at the moment. They can only file this complaint to Honda and wait for the update. I am surprised that I did not find complaint about it for 2016 on the internet yet. My guess is it probably a lot less severe than the 2015 but you can definitely feel it. The good part is I can turn the heater to maximum to bump up to 700-800 rpm then the vibration goes away but the VIBRATION DEFINITELY IS STILL THERE! Make sure that you test drive it on highway and local for at least 20min before you decide to buy it.

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  Beauty is only skin deep............ - 2004 Honda Element
  By hal26 - May 24 - 10:43 am

  I am a gearhead.I owned an auto restoration biz for 13 years.I own 2 Vettes,3 motorcycles and a Dodge Hemi.They are usually at home while I zip around in my funky useful Element.I love this thing!I think it is cool looking too!