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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  Odyssey - Positive and Negatives - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Deborah - April 26 - 11:59 pm

  The Odyssey was a wonderful touring van when I traveled over 8500 miles during the first summer I had it. The gas mileage was good on the trip and it performed perfectly. Ive always felt very secure on the highway while passing trucks and in inclement weather. My only complaint is with one of the sliding doors. In Florida, it wouldnt open and on a trip to Kentucky, it failed to open. Its frightening especially if there was an accident. I definitely feel I got a lemon on the door. This is the only problem Ive had with the van and when it happens, it is very annoying.

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  Safest car ever - 2003 Honda Accord
  By BEEVANS - April 26 - 11:22 pm

  I was in a HORRIBLE high speed, head on collision (police & helicopters everywhere!) 4 days ago & was able to get out of my 2003 Accord & walk away. The passengers in the other car (not a Honda) werent as lucky. I will only trust Honda made cars to protect my son & me!!!

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  So far so good! - 2007 Honda Odyssey
  By Bill - April 26 - 2:33 pm

  We went to the dealership to look at a used Pilot. The Odyssey was sitting next to it, so it was easy to compare them side by side. The Odyssey must be 50% bigger inside, with 3 rows of very roomy & comfortable seating for full- size humans--and the 07 van was only a couple grand more than the 04 Pilot. Adults wouldnt last long in the Pilots 3rd row. The Odyssey sold itself on the test drive. Theres lots of storage cubbies and cup holders galore. We had to give up 4WD, but you cant have everything. Were averaging 18 mpg, about what I hoped for. The certified used car warranty beats new car coverage. My wife loves driving the Odyssey, so it looks like we made the right decision.

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  I am gonna miss my Civic - 2005 Honda Civic
  By Eddie - April 26 - 12:09 pm

  I am trading-in the CIvic for an Accord Coupe in a few days and all I can say is I am gonna miss the Civic. Reliable, great gas mileage, good handling and good looks.

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  Short on dough? Civics the way to go. - 1998 Honda Civic
  By Joe Kinney - April 26 - 10:00 am

  If it werent for that darn school bus slamming into me, Id still be driving my Civic today. What it lacks in low- end torque, it makes up for once the peppy VTEC kicks in. This car is affordable, reliable, & fun to drive. If youre on a budget, never fear. Look no further than the Civic EX . . . you wont regret it!

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  Great Minivan - 2002 Honda Odyssey
  By 1stody - April 26 - 10:00 am

  Best minivan mainly because of the fold down rear seat. Large cargo space and Honda reputation also helps. But the van is a great ride, although Honda needs to upgrade their EX Leather trim with more bells/whistles. Especially the stereo system (this really is mediocre at best).

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  Zips - 2002 Honda Accord
  By Dununt - April 26 - 10:00 am

  Excellent Car all around

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  No Regrets, Great Truck - 2007 Honda Ridgeline
  By Paul - April 25 - 10:22 pm

  After driving minivans for the past ten years I decided to move up to a truck. Although not a truck guy in the traditional sense, I wanted the utility of a bed for those weekend beach runs and a comfortable rear seat for my three kids. I got both in the Ridgeline. Plus its smooth, quiet and fun.

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  Better luck next time... - 2002 Honda Accord
  By Third - April 25 - 4:40 pm

  Honda, reliable, cant go wrong, right? Just a few months after purchase at about 60,000 miles I was informed they needed to replace the transmission. Ok, i had also purchase an extended warranty so i didnt pay anything out of pocket. Then I started seeing my ABS and TCS lights come on in the morning when Id start my car, by the afternoon on the drive home they went away. Dealership used their computer diagnostic and said nothing was wrong so i ignored it too. Well now over 100,000 the lights dont go out and they tell me its a $1,200 job to replace the ABS modulator... Im so happy, no not really.

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  Nice ride - 2007 Honda Element
  By steve - April 25 - 1:42 pm

  I drive a lot of miles each day and enjoy them all. After back surgery I needed something roomy and easy to get in and out of not to mention good gas mileage. My wife now wants one of her own...