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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  Nice but Not for Sasquatch - 2004 Honda Element
  By QMSmitty - June 8 - 8:38 pm

  We bought ours as a 2 yr old model with 26K miles. I named it The Earl-ament. We bought in preparing to have a more baby friendly car, that has some ground clearance in case of high water. We are very pleased with the vehicle. We wish we could find a slightly larger vehicle with the rest of the features that would help accommodate the stuff two little boys.

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  2000 EX V6 was Hondas best model - 2000 Honda Accord
  By Jim Rosalez - June 8 - 7:24 pm

  My 2000 Honda has been fun to drive and the maintenance which I has only been done by Honda for the entire life of the car, hence there is a record of all maintenance done on the car for anyone wishing to check it out. Clean and maintained properly. Really not sure that I will sell it but at the moment I am looking at doing so. All mileage has been on a local bases with the exception of trips to and from relocation areas. This is one of Hondas best cars done in 2000. Just recently got a letter from Honda on their Premier Program for 2000 Hondas. It appears that there is a great demand for this model year. Makes me think maybe I should keep the car.

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  Great car - 1994 Honda Passport
  By R Nair - June 8 - 3:23 pm

  Ive had this car for about a year and I have limited use for it. I have taken it for long drives (1000+ miles)and pulled a bunch of cars out of the snow (as I live in the blessed snow belt). It has never broken down or given any problem. The engine and tranny have been smooth and trouble-free. It gives decent mileage for the size of the car. I would definitely recommend this car!

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  Almost Perfect - One design flaw - 2008 Honda Pilot
  By tbcvideo - June 8 - 10:08 am

  I purchased my second Honda Pilot in March 2008 after being the happy owner of a 2005 Pilot. The vehicle is perfect for a large family as it seats 8 comfortably (kids in th rear). There is one flaw and it is identical to that in the 2005 model. When driving at speeds greater than 40 miles per hour, try opening the rear passenger windows ONLY! Start with the back right and you will notice a very loud hum or vibration. It is NOT a minor noise as it is almost deafening and pounds on your ears. I am not sure if Honda is aware of this problem. I thought it was just my own 05 model that was doing this however it is identical in the 08. The pilot otherwise is perfect!

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  Terrific, and not as small as you think - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By HiroProtagonist - June 8 - 10:00 am

  Like our old Accord, the CR-V handles very well. Its actually a lot of fun to drive quickly. However, the main reason I got this car is for its practicality. As parents of a young child, we were really looking for a durable family car, and the CR-V delivers. The car is extremely well designed inside and out. Its also much roomier (especially in the back seat) than the Escape and Rav4, both of which I have ridden in several times. Combine that with the 4WD and youve got a terrific all-weather family car. The smooth, high cubic-inch 4 cylinder is plenty for everyday drving and gets better gas mileage than a 6.

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  Do the 2002 - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By cogo - June 8 - 10:00 am

  The vehicle has certainly lived up to my expectations. I am still excited about the projected resale value! Although the CRV is not made for difficult off road travel, I have taken it into the woods camping on several occasions without any problems. It performs like a charm.

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  It rocks!!!!!!!!!!! - 2002 Honda Civic
  By mpeace - June 8 - 10:00 am

  You just have to get one. I cant explain it. It rocks.

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  se - 2002 Honda Accord
  By samiander - June 8 - 10:00 am

  better performance...please...but looks inside and out are spectacular...reliablity will make it a keepsake!

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  I Think Im a Honda Person Now - 2006 Honda Civic
  By mwallace - June 8 - 3:33 am

  It took about two months to take delivery of my new car and Ive had it for a little less than a month. I have about 1000 miles and have gotten better gas mileage with each fill-up (about 35mpg). I love how tight and responsive the car is. It does vibrate a little bit, but not unreasonably. The acceleration is better that the 2003 Mazda6 I traded it in for and I LOVE the design, inside and out. It is also very comfortable. My mother and I bought the exact car (-color), she got hers 1st, then I got mine 3 months later. I thought I wanted a bigger car, possibly a SUV, but I am so happy with my decision. My expenses went down on all counts except insurance which went up about $15 per month.

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  Love at First Sight - 2007 Honda Element
  By Paula - June 7 - 11:33 pm

  I was in love with the element from day one, it took me until 2006 to finally take a look inside . I was hooked! In dec. 2006 my dealer found a 2007 kiwi lx manual I ordered and bought it on the spot, no test drive needed. I read different reviews for people wanting carpet, different shifter location etc. For them I say "get a normal car." the Element is not for everyone, but good for children, pets, hauling things and having fun.