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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  Great honda - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By honda lover - October 5 - 2:00 am

  Had nothing to say but good things, I think it looks way and much better than the new one.

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  Change My Mind About Minivans - 2011 Honda Odyssey
  By awhite4 - October 5 - 2:00 am

  I had a preconceived idea that minivans were not for me. After driving the Odyssey it changed my mind so much that we purchased one that very day! It is far from the traditional minivan. The look is much more sporty and sleek. The inside is so luxurious and comfortable. The best part is the little touches that make it so handy for a family. Hooks are place in the front and middle to hang trash sacks. As a mom I really appreciate things like that. I absolutely love it.

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  Fun and cheap to run! - 2006 Honda Accord
  By hondo - October 5 - 2:00 am

  72k miles - original brakes, tires, lights, no oil leaks but a few creaks. Fun to drive and easy on the wallet. Four cylinder engine revs and hums like it was new. No end in sight.

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  Very Please - 2010 Honda CR-V
  By MiamiCRV1 - October 5 - 2:00 am

  Just picked up a built in Japan CR-V. I previously had a 2002 CR-V and have to say that the 2010 model is more poised, comfortable and fun to drive. I still dont understand all the criticism about acceleration. The CR-V is not and will never be a V8 Mustang. It definitely has enough pickup to get you where you want to go comfortably and is agile enough to keep up with the more aggressive drivers you find here in Miami. I dont care what the statistics, pundits or Honda says. The vehicles built in Japan definitely have an edge in quality and fit and finish. Overall, were extremely satisfied.

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  6 month update - 2010 Honda CR-V
  By andrew - October 5 - 2:00 am

  Nearly six months since I got this CR-V and all is fine. No problems at all and I like it more every time I drive it. The build quality, mine was from Japan, is flawless. I find it the most comfortable vehicle I have owned. Highest mpg 28 and so far mostly knocking around it is averaging 22.3. The fit and finish on this SUV are very impressive.

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  Good Job Honda! - 2010 Honda Accord
  By Daniel - October 4 - 2:00 am

  I love my accord. Couldnt be better.. There are a lot of pros and cons but to start off, FUEL ECONOMY! My V6 used less fuel than my brothers Suzuki Swift 1.6L.. Just amazing fuel economy! I dont like how Honda still uses a 5 speed and no manual shifting or anything. Navigation is a bit hard to use and finding places can be challenging unless you already know the address that needs to be entered. Stock tires are horrible, i feel shaking when going 120km/h + . Trunk space isnt very good at all especially with the DVD in the way from the GPS. Stereo isnt very good and subwoofer shakes the plastic too much (cheap built)All in all a very good car but Honda needs to do some updating SOON!

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  Love My Ellie! - 2005 Honda Element
  By EllieFan - October 3 - 2:00 am

  All I ever wanted was a Honda Element. Finally, after my 96 Chevy Beretta gave way, I bought a used one. I have two large dogs, and this was the only vehicle I would have. Couple of things. Its everything I thought it would be and more! The dogs have harnesses that attach to the seat belts, so no sliding around. I have two big dogs, so securing two crates to the back isnt an option. Secondly, for $3.50 from a big box store we all know and love, the big blind spots have been completely removed. Most neg. reviews were about blind spots, a very easy fix. And another was the pets sliding around. Well, get a harness. All problems fixed, and I couldnt be ANY happier with my Element.

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  2010 vs 2011 - 2010 Honda Odyssey
  By Rich - October 3 - 2:00 am

  We purchased a new 2010 before the 2011 model shipped. This week I physically inspected a new 2011. The new model is not as airy and open as the older model. The lowered roof line and higher belt line reduces the feeling of space from the 2nd and 3 rows children will have no complaints. The roof air vents are airline sized eyelets which may not distribute air as well as the larger style found in the older model. Rear visibility is reduced. The new model has a few refinements and I expect improved drive dynamics. But, the older Ody is a winner for visibility, ext side design and still competitive with the 2011.

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  Dog gets a new hauler - 2010 Honda Odyssey
  By Matt - October 3 - 2:00 am

  After 30K on an 07 Element, time for more room for the dog. So far very happy with Odyssey. Ive pulled the middle seats out, rear seats down provide plenty of room for old rover. Gas mileage so far at 21, i usually cruise LA fwys at 70 mph + no complaints here. hope i dont have to have the new 11.

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  No 5th wheel anymore - 2010 Honda CR-V
  By pc - October 3 - 2:00 am

  I traded in my 2006 EX and while Ill miss the loaded features I added to it I am thrilled to have no loud slams from the tailgate w/spare tire. I wish there was an interior control to open the tailgate. The Honda craftsmanship is still evident throughout the interior. I like the non-glare material on top of the dash board. The exterior features meet my needs and the body design is obviously more aerodynamic and visually pleasing. After one day of highway (two hours) and suburb (three hours)driving I was satisfied with the get up and go entering the highway. I did buy a couple blind spot mirrors as I noticed my ability to view other lanes in the city was decreased with the new CR-V.