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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  Never Again - 1998 Honda Accord
  By Angelica - October 9 - 10:00 am

  I bought a 98 Honda Accord LX a couple of years ago, had regular service to it and it was great up until recently. The air conditioning knobs on the dash break off easily, and also the catalytic converter went out. All before it even reached 100K on the odometer! When I had to take the car in to have the catalytic converter replaced, there were FOUR other Honda owners there, ALL of them were 1998 Accord LX models, and they all had the same problem w/ the catalytic converter. As a result, Im having to spend yet MORE money in repairs that should have otherwise not been an issue in such a reportedly reliable car. Will NOT buy a Honda Accord again.

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  Absolutely the Best! - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By teacherkennedy - October 9 - 10:00 am

  The Honda Pilot combines the driving luxury of an Accord and the convenience of an SUV. As a past Honda owner, my expectations were high. The Pilot exceeded all of my expectations. I highly recommend this vehicle!

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  Whats up with the gas mileage? - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By pjk23 - October 9 - 10:00 am

  Overall, a great vehicle. Ive owned 4 hondas in a row. I havent had one complaint...until now. We were expecting the estimated 17/22 gas mileage when purchasing the Pilot. Weve been driving it now for 4 months and weve only been managing 14/19. My wife mainly drives the vehicle...and shes not a lead foot by any means. Im going to call the dealership to see if any adjustments can be made. Other than that, an incredible vehicle. Honda did a great job putting this one together.

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  Saving the planet with action, not words - 2003 Honda Civic
  By savetheenvironment - October 9 - 10:00 am

  When the Stang got wrecked, I decided to get a hybrid because its the responsible thing to do. Of the hybrids available, The styling on the Civic was best--it looked "normal". I cant be happier. Car had 1 mile on it & now has 1050 miles. I drive in suburban areas in Orlando and am achieving about 43- 47mph. Didnt get this the first couple of hundred miles (probably all the demo rides I gave friends), but do now, & lately its been even better. This is a comfortable car and very fun to drive. The dynamic gauges make me very attune to "bad" driving habits. This is a great hybrid example for other car companies to follow. HELLO FORD? HELLO GM?

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  ReadyToMoveUp - 2003 Honda Civic
  By SJY - October 9 - 10:00 am

  There is no true power in this car unless you add your own, and thus void the warranty. I have had this car for over a year, with no technical problems. The panels are thin and you can expect many dings and paint scratches. There are many little irritants i have with this car, such as the ugliest interior fabric, the air conditioner stinks and blows warm air when on medium-high, the seats will easily "click" out of place. I am rumbling about the little things but swear by the Honda name. I want to move up to a Honda Accord EX in the very near future, Im just plain bored with the Civic. I just hope i dont put the money into something just like the Civic.

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  Accord # 4 - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Donald Jones - October 9 - 10:00 am

  This is my fourth Hond Accord. Ive been happy with the previous three Accords but this 2003 is a big step up in overall quality. Very quiet and a much better ride. How does Honda make a better car for the same money as a 2002? You need to pay close attention here Ford and GM.

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  No decision - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Beegimus - October 9 - 10:00 am

  For a good year now i was trying to decide what kind of coupe i wanted to buy. The main choices were the Nissan 350z and the Honda Accord Coupe. The choice was easy with the accord coupe seating 5 vs 2. and the unleaded regular vs premium. In the long run i think my choice of the Accord Coupe would of been a better decision. Quality, good design, and practical applications make all the difference.

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  Love My New Car - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Pearl Sen - October 9 - 10:00 am

  Having several family members who own Honda Accords it has been my "dream" to have one of my own. The car has been all I expected and hoped for. It really handles well on the interstate and in town. I was pleased by the gas milage I got driving mostly in town the first week. It got 28 miles to the gallon and that is a big plus to me. I am still finding all the "little" extras it has to offer such as the seat being able to be adjusted up and down. All in all its a very pretty car and I highly recommend one to anyone in the market who is looking for a reliable car.

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  WISH I KEPT MY 2000 TOWN CAR - 2003 Honda Accord
  By FRAK - October 9 - 10:00 am

  HAS ONLY 3500 MILES AND CABLE TO OPEN FUEL DOOR FAILED. HAD TO TAKE THE PANELS OUT OF THE TRUNCK TO GET TO REMOVE CABLE. ENGINEERS NOT SMART ENOUGH TO PUT AN EMERGENCY PULL CABLE IN TRUNK LIKE MOST OTHER CARS. BOUGHT THIS CAR TO HOPEFULLY GET BETTER MILEAGE. BEST I HAVE GOTTEN IS 19.8/MI/GAL. GOT 23 T0 25 ON MY LINCOLN TOWN CAR. HONDA IS TOO NOISY ON THE HIGHWAY - WIND & ROAD NOISE MAKES IT HARD TO HEAR RADIO. I AM TRYING TO TRADE IT FOR A 2003 LINCOLN RIGHT NOW.

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  Very Good car for less money - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Shouvik - October 9 - 7:36 am

  Bought 2006 Honda Civic EX, 4dr, Auto on 11/10/2005. It has very futuristic interior and a very gorgeous aerodynamic body. It definitely stands out in the traffic. However, 2006 Toyota Corolla has optional vehicle stability control and traction control features.I also compared it with 2006 Mazda 3 and civic has less hp than 2.3 LT Mazda 3.Ride is bumpier than Chevy Cobalt or Toyota Camry. Remote Keyless entry system started malfunctioning within 2/3 Weeks. Dealer lubed the locks but the problem again surfaced today -Am I unfortunate or a genuine problem ?!