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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  My Pride and Joy - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Lasan82 - September 26 - 10:00 am

  The new 2003 Honda Accord Coupe is an amazing machine. It rides so smooth and its so thrilling to drive.

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  Great Honda - 2003 Honda Accord
  By DLK - September 26 - 10:00 am

  Awesome vehicle, Honda did it again. Love it!

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  Hard to beat the Honda Accord at $25K - 2004 Honda Accord
  By ampang701 - September 26 - 10:00 am

  Very smooth, very quiet, excellent interior for a car that costs $25K. Controls and switches are best-in-any- class. The engine, always Hondas forte, is incredible. Seats are a big improvement over previous generations and might be the best car seats Ive ever experienced. Exterior styling is OK, except the rear-view (of the 4dr sedan) needs to be reconsidered.

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  not sorry i bought it - 2004 Honda Accord
  By barbra1030 - September 26 - 10:00 am

  after waiting 13 years to buy another car (with the expectation that i will have this car for quite a while, as well) i decided on the accord EX-L. i did a lot of researching and test drove a number of cars before settling on the accord. i am very happy with it. it handles really well and gas mileage is phenomenal, especially in my situation where i do a lot of short trips vs regular highway driving. there is a lot of interior storage, which my previous car was sadly missing, so i no longer have to store my sunglasses jammed between the seat and the console. im not second guessing my decision.

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  Better than ever - 2004 Honda Accord
  By moose - September 26 - 10:00 am

  The accord just does what I want it to do -- It starts every time, drives with some fun and spirit, never breaks, and even looks a little racey.

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  Awsome - 2004 Honda Accord
  By juliekayt - September 26 - 10:00 am

  I simply love it! It gives you the feel of luxury without the $, yet it is sporty. A real head turner.

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  Hondsa Accord - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Jeremy21 - September 26 - 10:00 am

  This car is so crucial I just love the style and make of this car.I had to get one all of my freinds have them.

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  04 Accord - 2004 Honda Accord
  By DMW - September 26 - 10:00 am

  I have the car just over a month and put 3500 miles on it. Performance of the 4 cylinder is amazing. Any more power that you get from the 6 is a waste of gas, this car flies and on 70mph trip I got 35 mpg. Its not a sports car but its pretty sporty if you are looking for a family sedan.

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  Good Value - 2003 Honda Accord
  By aaaaaaa - September 25 - 7:20 am

  I have been driving this car for 2 1/2 years now and have had a few minor problems. The OEM Bridgestone tires needed replacements around 25,000 miles. The brakes also went around the same time. I had the pads and rotors replaced free of charge at a local dealership. The cable for the trunk/gas lid also broke and was replaced under warranty. I got the car at a bargain price and have been extremely pleased with it. I did add two rear speakers (wiring was already set up). The car does not have AC or PDLs like the LX, but you really cant beat its value. It is pretty peppy for a 4 cylinder.

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  Gets funner with tuning - 1990 Honda Accord
  By Samir - September 24 - 11:33 pm

  My first car and by far the best car my family has ever owned. Its been in 4 accidents totaled twice and I can still push it. Its easy to work on and get better performance with the abundance of aftermarket parts. I had mine repainted but it got scratched so the old white paint still shines new. With $50 in suspension worth it handles like a BMW. Comfort wise comparable to a Benz. I will be very, very, very sad when I sell her to get something newer.