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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  poor lighting - 2000 Honda Accord
  By natasha531 - November 19 - 2:00 am

  All in all its a very good reliable vehicle. There are a few safety motifications that should be made. The lighting system is bad. Its hard to see at night without the high- beams on. The car is good on gas. It has a lot of leg room for one of my 59 female. I dont think men should drive this vehicle. It has a sporty feminine look to it (men should not buy this car).Its a very reliable vehicle. If your travling long distances and there is only 3 people 1 person can go in the back and sleep comfortable which is a plus in my book.

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  BEST OF THE BEST - 2004 Honda Accord
  By CTTYLER - November 19 - 2:00 am

  I TEST DROVE MANY CARS INCLUDING THE CAMRY AND ALTIME BEFORE SETTLING ON THE ACCORD. THE QUALITY OF THE MATERIALS AND THE FIT AND FINISH REALLY SOLD ME ON THE CAR. PLUS, I THOUGHT I WAS DRIVING A 6 CYLINDER UNTIL THE SALESPERSON ADVISED ME IT WAS A 4. ABSOLUTELY THE BEST CAR IVE EVER OWNED. HUGHES HONDA IN WARNER ROBINS GA WAS ALSO THE BEST DEALER.

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  100% BOLD - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By dorrethf - November 18 - 10:16 pm

  The new honda pilot is a reiable and fun family SUV. it has great features and has great quality.

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  S2000 3 year review - 2001 Honda S2000
  By wake88 - November 17 - 3:14 pm

  Driving this car is like attaching it directly to your brain and giving it commands. The S2000 goes where you want when you want it to. It is a superior driving machine. Whether you are a good old boy that loves american muscle, or an import umm "artist", a ride in this car will induce an ear-to- ear grin on your face. I have used it as a weekend/fair weather car and have had very few problems. I had the 3 TSBs performed during the first year of ownership which took care of a few noises and nuisances. Since then its been perfectly reliable through two autocross seasons and a recent track day. I recommend this car to anyone who likes to drive, and I dont mean in a straight line.

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  Honda Rules - 2008 Honda Civic
  By Honda Guy - November 17 - 3:06 pm

  This is my 20 something Honda since 1977. I have had Hondas that I have driven 200,000 miles and no Honda has ever given me a major mechanical issue. If you follow the factory recommended service they will run a very long time. I have enjoyed every Honda that I have owned. This car is stylish and fun to drive. Im 5" 11" and weigh about 220 lbs. Im not a small guy and the car is extremely comfortable. I like the design of the instrument cluster. I dont have to lower my eyes from the road to know my speed. The EX comes with a whole lot of accessories and gadgets that you would expect on a $30,000 or more car.

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  Love my cr-v - 2013 Honda CR-V
  By Pat McGowan - November 17 - 2:13 pm

  This car is very reliable. Derides nicely. It just looks good. The one negative is that it only has one glove box. My 2008 headed to glove boxes.

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  Honda - 1998 Honda Accord
  By Daniel Beck - November 17 - 10:00 am

  Great car.. very reliable

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  excellent job honda - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By ahondafan - November 17 - 10:00 am

  this vehicle is awesome. there is a premium above msrp, but compared to everything else on the market this is a steal. i took delivery of my taffeta white/fern pilot ex-l 5/31, and i cant get anough of it. in fact i think my neighbor wants want too.

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  Frugal Fun - 2002 Honda Civic
  By Furgz - November 17 - 10:00 am

  My choice came down to this car or the 2003 Toyota Corolla. Decision became easy because there are few Corollas on dealers lots. On the other hand, my local Honda dealer had the models and colors I wanted. They made me an offer I couldnt refuse. Overall, I am satisfied.

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  Great, safe vehicle - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By ELR - November 16 - 10:25 pm

  We had our Pilot for just about 2 years and had no problems with it. It was great for: (i) driving kids in the carpool to school, (ii) taking long trips (DVD in the car may be mans greatest invention) (iii) heading up to the mountains for skiing. I was involved in an accident this past weekend and was broadsided at 55 mph. The Pilot is probably totalled, but my only injuries are bruising from the seatbelt. Since the car is probably totalled we will be getting another Pilot - It looks like it held its value beyond our expectations. Truly a great vehicle by a great company.