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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  A truly different driving experience - 2003 Honda Civic
  By VikeKen - July 13 - 2:00 am

  This car produces a different ethic to driving. Many cars talk about creating a different "driving experience," however, the Honda Civic Hybrid truly creates a new way of thinking about driving. I feel more in tune with how my car operates as I continually look at the IMA gauge to see it charge the batteries or assist the gas engine. I pay more attention to details like road noise and my driving speed. Although I can see some drop off in performance at higher speeds, it is entirely workable as the price of the new experience in driving.

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  Excellent Choice - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Great Vehicle by RS - July 12 - 11:37 pm

  Before purchasing the Pilot, I leased the RX300. The Pilot rides almost as nice as the Lexus. The Pilot is great in the snow and very comfortable on long trips. The NAV works great and is easy to use. The only item that required replacement was a burned out headlight bulb after 50000 miles. I would definetely purchase this vehicle again.

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  Lovin my "new" car! - 1994 Honda Accord
  By 94accord_lover - July 12 - 4:38 pm

  This is my first car, and im really enjoying it. My uncle was the previous owner, and he treated it like it was his own child. 11 years old and only 71K miles! He has had nothing but good to say about the car and so far neither do I. Never been in shop besides routine fluid and filter changes. The gas mileage has been rather good, averaging 31 mpg, but got 38 mpg (!!!!) on a 120 mile round trip. Love the handling. Everything feels so solid, like it will hold up for another 20 years. Design inside and out dont look like 11 year old design. Looks as modern as it did in 94. Great job, Honda!!

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  I like it. - 2010 Honda Accord
  By get er done - July 12 - 5:20 am

  Just bought this car about a week ago and love driving it already. Have had a Honda in the past and after testing the market for others, couldnt resist coming back and Im glad I did. Of course, the more features the better, but I like the ride, comfort and space. Its just one of those cars that you cant be mad at.

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  Still Exceeding Expectations - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By Retrova - July 11 - 3:43 pm

  We bought the Pilot to buffer our 1 year old in 5 star crash rated construction and to haul his gear around. This vehicle is everything its supposed to be - van like capacity that is unparalleled in its class and the look of an SUV on the outside. Drives wonderfully, all the confidence of the size and height visibility and yet flexible maneuvering of a car. The deal was, my wife would get to drive to work and I would drive on weekends. So far, I have to pry the keys out of her hands on the weekends!

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  The S2000 - 2004 Honda S2000
  By Sam Uren - July 11 - 2:29 pm

  I have had an S2000 and is was superb, apart from when I hired one in America. The handling was desgined for comfort, and so completely destroyed the agile feeling that you get from a UK car. Buy a British version for the best enjoyment of an S2000. [PS, you also get more kit with a UK car]

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  Best Civic Yet! - 2006 Honda Civic
  By mtbiker278 - July 11 - 8:03 am

  Compared to other cars Ive driven (including the corolla, escort, neon) this Civic has them beat hands down. The refinements that Honda has put in are incredible. Virtually every aspect of the car is better than any that have come before it. As for the gas mileage, I have also experienced the low gas mileage. HOWEVER, all brand new engines will get lower gas mileage at first. This is because the piston rings have to wear into the cylinders, along with any other moving metal part on the car. Once broken in properly, say after the recommended 600mi., youll see a gradual increase in MPG. While you might not get the stickered 30/40 MPG, youll certainly get higher than the 24mpg city.

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  New CR-V Special Edition - Fantastic! - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By neilinnc - July 9 - 11:13 pm

  Just purchased but already know Im going to love it. Remarkably quiet, responsive, good power in 16valve VTEC 2.4l engine. Typical Honda quality and thoughtful layout. Leather seating and heated seats worth the extra money. Unbelievable features in a $25000 SUV

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  Not for the Faint of Heart - 2005 Honda S2000
  By Drew Eisenhofer - July 9 - 12:27 pm

  After purchacing my S2000 in Anchorage in March, I quickly realized that a second car was needed in any area that required driving in the snow. That being said, this is the most fantastic car that Ive ever driven. Though it packs quite a punch (240 hp), it is a very tame every day driver. But, when you want to unleash that horsepower, its always there on command. Its handling is extremely precise, and there is little or no body roll in the corners. The chassis is extremely rigid, and the car feels as it is one piece. Having 6 speeds, the shifter is crisp and has short throws. The seats are firm and supportive. There is very little trunk room, though, so pack lightly.

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  Superb VAN - Perfect 4 family of 4!!! - 1995 Honda Odyssey
  By Ody Owner - July 9 - 11:51 am

  Nearly 200,000 miles now! Only NON- wear and tear items replaced: brake master cylinder at 90k, radiator at 120k, AC switch valve. Still original wear and tear parts: alternator, starter, exhaust, shocks. One of the most reliable vehicles I have ever owned in 25 years of owning cars. Still running strong - no reason it wouldnt reach 300k+.