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 ex has lots of pick up for the money - 2000 Honda Civic
  By civicballa - June 6 - 1:35 pm

  pretty quick little car hasnt been in the shop and ive had it like 3 months and im still adding mods on it it just dont have enough pep right now goin for turbo should be great then i love my civic

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  2004 Honda Pilot Review - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By PROFDM - June 6 - 12:50 pm

  Fun to drive to hard ride.

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  New Owner - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By netto - June 6 - 7:53 am

  I compared both Toyota XLE and Honda EX Cloth. The Honda has beautiful acceleration and very responsive brakes. Great visibility and commanding driving positions. Very agile for its size.(I reluctantly had to sell my BMW 330i and so was pleased with the Hondas manouvering).

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  Best Car Ever! - 2007 Honda Civic
  By John Degrey - June 6 - 6:48 am

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  never get to drive it - 2006 Honda Civic
  By randyb - June 6 - 6:30 am

  My wife had a Toyota Sienna that was totaled in an accident. We didnt need another large car so we decided to go with a small car. We considered the Corolla but this car had so much new technology and safety features going for it that the decision was an easy one. Our other criteria was mpg and reliability. Apparently its fun to drive because I rarely get the opportunity. My wife really enjoys driving it and has absolutely no regrets having bought it.

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  Best looking car w/ excellent performanc - 1998 Honda Accord
  By alias777 - June 6 - 2:00 am

  This is the 4th Accord that Ive owned. Its truly an awesome car thats reliable, fun, and awesome looking. You get the sporty look on the outside and a luxury feel on the inside.

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  Very original! - 2003 Honda Element
  By TheOne777 - June 6 - 2:00 am

  The most versatile vehicle on the market!

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  I love this thing - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By happyWithIt - June 6 - 2:00 am

  What a cool car. I wanted a 3 row of seat mid-size SUV and I chose this after looking at the Ford and GM vehicles. Love the cool interior and the smooth ride and the great fuel economy

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  Excellent Car - 2002 Honda Civic
  By nycom92 - June 5 - 7:00 pm

  This is my second Honda Civic. My first one was an 88 hatchback. The quality is outstanding. The shifter is smooth, no rattles or noises are noted. The engine is peppy (127 hp in EX)and the gas milage is amazing. Its fun to drive.

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  Great Automobile!!!!!!!!1 - 2002 Honda Odyssey
  By Cat - June 5 - 3:56 pm

  Nice Interior.