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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  Little Suv w/lots of room - 2003 Honda Element
  By Clown Car - February 1 - 2:00 am

  Problems with the drivers seat track Windsheild attracted to stones, cracks easy.Nice and roomy lots of space,nice riding vehicle

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  Honda Pilot EX - Black - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Jim McKenzie - February 1 - 2:00 am

  Excellent vehicle with the exception of lack of telescopic steering column. Steering wheel column is too short. In order to avoid driving with your arms straight out you have to move the drivers seat up close which shortens the leg room.

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  Great Car! - 2000 Honda Accord
  By lilmamaof2 - February 1 - 2:00 am

  I love this car! I have had absolutely no trouble with it. I have driven to California and up to the mountains and have had no trouble making the hills. It is a 5-speed so, for me, it makes it a blast to drive. I would buy a new one in a second!

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  Great Daily Commute - 2002 Honda Civic
  By chadtm - February 1 - 2:00 am

  I got this car as a graduation present from high school to use in college. I drive it about 30 miles per day and couldnt ask for a better car. Its fun with manual and the gas milage is great. I like the pickup and wouldnt want another car.

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  Better than anticipated! - 2003 Honda Accord
  By williamtwo - February 1 - 2:00 am

  Lots of power, but handling a little spongy compared to VW GTI VR6. Very quiet ride and comfortable seats. Great a/c & heating. Body style is modern and up to date.

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  My fix for mid-life crisis - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Chris in Desert - February 1 - 2:00 am

  This is a nice ride. Just crossed over 350 miles and still have almost 1/4 tank left. Bought this over a Passat; just thought about repairs in five years. Noticed some sort of rotten egg smell after turning off motor, but that has subsided. Has a small rattle; fit is pretty good, not perfect though. Rides a bit rough on a bumpy road. It is more of a drivers car than my Ford Explorer!!

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  The best car I have ever owned. - 2003 Honda Accord
  By John D. Serra - February 1 - 2:00 am

  This car drives and handles like a dream. The quality and power are excellent. I will never buy a nother american made car again. Me and my girl friend flip a coin to see who gets to take it to work. I may just have to move out and then I get it all to myself.

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  Honda Accord is Awesome - 2004 Honda Accord
  By nikki Crawford - February 1 - 2:00 am

  We love our Honda. It gets great gas mileage. We love the way it drives

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  ACCORDingly the best - 2004 Honda Accord
  By F HOFFMAN - February 1 - 2:00 am

  THIS IS MY 7TH HONDA(6TH ACCORD) EACH HAS BEEN BETTER THAN THE LAST

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  Super car - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Cardell - February 1 - 2:00 am

  I am 69 years old and have owned many different makes and mods of automobiles/pickups/SUVs in my life. Top of the line usually. I just bought a new Honda Accord EX and must say I have never owned a better car. I Love it.My gal pal does too. Thanks Honda.