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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  good job honda - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By yazman - October 21 - 1:00 pm

  Just had the vehicle over a week, and now I enjoy driving to work, its a wonderful commute car, comfortable, quiet, smooth ride, excellent brakes, enough power to go effortlessly in and out of traffic, the vehicle is responsive and feels tight (well built), it takes road bumps and potholes such that the driver is always in control of the steering, so far Ive gotten just under 30mpg using premium gas, about 24 using mid range gas. Was ready to buy RAV4 but after taking test drive and seeing the quality and all the standard equipment there was no question honda is a better deal. Not sure how much better V6 would be, this engine has plenty of power for the average driver...

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  Honda Pilot - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Pilot Owner - October 21 - 2:00 am

  Traded in 99 explorer for the Pilot. No comparism in most areas that matter. Gas mileage is around 18 mpg in the city. I do hear the gas sloshing when I brake to a complete stop. I did buy the Pilot for reliability and overall performance and find both to be more than adaquate. I would at least test drive one and compare for yourself if you have the opportunity.

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  crv - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By jpgh - October 21 - 2:00 am

  Really like the vehicle. Mine was built in Japan and the quality (fit/finish) is exceptional. Really like the powerful eng. The interior layout/space is great too.

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  I expected better from Honda - 2001 Honda Civic
  By CrackerJack - October 21 - 2:00 am

  I have been a long time believer in Honda but the 2001 Civic DX has really let me down. Apart from the small things that keep breaking...(gas cap release, peeling upholstery, constantly locking seal belts, the biggest dissappointment has been the pathetic suspension. The MacPherson struts had to be replaced at 30K. Now at 45K I am faced with having them replaced again. Honda has been very good at fixing everything under warranty, but Im going to trade the car in, because things arent going to stop breaking when the warranty runs out!

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  I am well pleased - 2003 Honda Civic
  By DavidR - October 21 - 2:00 am

  I have only owned this car for a couple of weeks but have already put 1500 miles on it. I am a large man and yet am very comfortable in it. Easy to get into and out of. I am surprised by the exceleration. It is better than I expected. Runs equally well in the city and on the highway. MPG do drop above 70 but that was to be expected. They are still far better than my prior car. I have read several comments for the need of a sunroof. That would hinder the airflow. I am glad it does not have one. That way I wont use it.

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  I am well pleased - 2003 Honda Civic
  By DAVIDR - October 21 - 2:00 am

  I have only owned this car for a couple of weeks but have already put 1500 miles on it. I am a large man and yet am very comfortable in it. Easy to get into and out of. I am surprised by the exceleration. It is better than I expected. Runs equally well in the city and on the highway. MPG do drop above 70 but that was to be expected. They are still far better than my prior car. I have read several comments for the need of a sunroof. That would hinder the airflow. I am glad it does not have one. That way I wont use it.

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  Accord V6 EX Coupe - 2003 Honda Accord
  By phorsley - October 21 - 2:00 am

  A very nimble car that feels very stable and secure in its handling. Lots of acceleration from the V6. 5- speed automatic is smooth. Interior design and quality is outstanding. overall handling much better than most cars Ive driven. Visibility suffers from the high beltline. Windshield posts seem to be in the way of side visibility. The ride is choppy on uneven roads. Mine developed a dash rattle 1 day after delivery. 2 trips to the dealer fixed the problem 95% of the time, but its occasionally still there. Gas mileage is 27 overall, combined city and freeway, outstanding for a car of this performance.

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  GREAT CAR - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Very Happy Owner - October 21 - 2:00 am

  I am really happy with my new Accord. Fortunately, I havent had any bad experiences. It seems like people are having issues with oil leaking problems, I will pay close attention to that. But overall the car is a DREAM. Highly recommended.

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  Another GREAT Honda! - 2003 Honda Accord
  By apc - October 21 - 2:00 am

  Ive had numerous Hondas and recenetly traded in a 2002 SE for a 2003 4 cyl. EX 5 speed. WOW! What a difference! I know a dealer who stated he wouldnt need a V6 for a demo any longer because the 4 cyl has lots more power than last year. Ive never Honda not stand behind their product and Ive ALWAYS had great service from my dealerships in every city Ive lived in. Cant rave enough about how fun the 5 speed is in this car and how quickly it can accelerate! If you havent done it yet, go drive one. If you do, take the checkbook cause youll be bringing it home!

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  Truly Timely - 2005 Honda Civic
  By Elizabeth David - October 20 - 11:46 pm

  Anticipation (gas prices) and looking for 3 years to replace our "old reliable" 1992 Pontiac Bonneville were the main motivations for purchasing our Honda Hybrid. I drive a one hour round trip commute every day to work and now only take 1/2 tank a week whereas the Pontiac had to filled every week. I know I save $60+ every month! It does seem to do better in cooler weather -- this morning (Nov. 9th) my gas mpg was 50.9 as I pulled into my parking spot. You do need to learn to drive a little differently (mostly braking gradually), but worth it! Fun thing: freak people out with how the engine and ac turn off when you stop -- can let up on brake to have ac turn back on in our humid climate.