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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  Amazing - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By Joeautos - May 9 - 2:00 am

  This suv handles like a car. I would definately buy this suv again.

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  Wow What A Vehicle !!! - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By BAMATPE - May 9 - 2:00 am

  Have my 04 Pilot for 5 months, absolutely love it. Comfortable ride, handling, roomy interior, and impeccable fit and finish. Researched mid-size SUVs. Nothing comes close to The Pilot. All were more pricey after adding comparable options.

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  best $14K I ever spent! - 2001 Honda Accord
  By alan chan - May 9 - 2:00 am

  I love this car since 98,finally I could buy myself one.98-02 is better looking then the 03-04 coupes. NSX concept tailights? V6+upgrades = :). Pulling next 2 any 4cyl(civics/intergra) = :). V6 coupes gets respects on the road. Y get a 4cyl prelude with no leather option for da same $$? I laugh at prelude owners. This V6 zoom up da hill like theres no hills! the only next level better then this is acura type-s coupe. but this is the best deal for the buck! GREAT BUY, for under $15k/25k miles. alot of upgrades out there to make this more then 200hp, cheap to maintain, its fast when u want fast, its peaceful when you want to cruise. A++++

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  Much Research ... One Answer ... CR-V - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By Research Man - May 9 - 2:00 am

  My wife and I bought the CR-V after extensive research (for about 15 months). There are a lot of good choices out there for a small SUV and it isnt easy to find which one is best for you. We use our vehicles for commuting to work and to see friends and family. We dont need something that will break land speed records or tow a house. There is plenty of power and room, interesting features, and a lot of safety built into the CR-V. If you keep your vehicle on pavement and use it for everyday tasks, the CR-V is TOUGH to beat.

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  impressed - 2004 Honda Civic
  By vtgumby - May 9 - 2:00 am

  I wasnt expecting to buy a civic. Nor was I expecting to like the new civic! Ive usually bought used cars, but decided to go with a newer one with less features. Dont miss the sunroof or alloy wheels, but love the handling, fuel economy and surprisingly enough the peppiness.

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  great car - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Wutrain - May 9 - 2:00 am

  Before purchasing this car I test drove a 2004 Subaru WRX and a 2004 Nissan Maxima (cars in the price range I was looking for). This is my first Honda and so far I love it. The WRX and Maxima were nowhere near as comfortable as the Accord. I am 60 210 lbs and I feel right at home in this car. Style, speed, and comfort are well balanced.

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  Very Happy with my 2003 Honda - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Art Carey - May 9 - 2:00 am

  Glad I bought one. Nice ride and very sleek looking. Great performance also.Just a smart buy for anyone looking for a well built car.

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  Nothing But Good News! - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Jennifer Rue - May 9 - 2:00 am

  For anyone that is going to buy a car. You should buy Honda product. Reliable, coast effective, and long lasting. You will go well over 200,000 mils. if taken care of properly. Thank You Honda!

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  Happy Honda owner - 2004 Honda Accord
  By jarles - May 9 - 2:00 am

  I recently purchased a 2004 Accord V6 EX, and I am very happy with it. After testing out some other sedans, this was the clear choice for me. The interior is well thought-out, with a high quality feeling to the materials. The drive is so smooth, with plenty of acceleration and power in the 240 horses. It feels great to sit in the car and drive it, and Ill be driving it for years.

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  Still a top 4 cylinder car - 1990 Honda Accord
  By clarkfball101 - May 9 - 12:41 am

  Even in the year 2005 the 2.2L engine is still one of the best on the road. Excellent choice for a first car for a teen. Car can go from one side of the country to the other.