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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  Honda does it again - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By SAMUEL - June 7 - 10:00 am

  This is a great vehicle. I test drove the Acura MDX(which was a good ride) but the Pilot feels more smoother and car-like than its luxury counter-part. Exceleration is great, gas mileage is good, and theres plenty of space for family trips. Great truck! Im waiting for upgrades, or a full size Honda to compete with the Toyota Sequoia and Nissan (Pathfinder) Armada.

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  best minivan - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By paul ahronov - June 7 - 10:00 am

  i love the van i was away on vacation and rented a oldsmobile couldnt compare them the ride in the honda and the drivers seat and whole interior was not comftarble

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  Vantastic Odyssey - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By Lloyd Erbe - June 7 - 10:00 am

  I took delivery in December.Drove it to Florida and fell in love with it! Performed flawlessly!Not one complaint. Drove straight through from Orlando to Wisconsin.Fantastic seats and plenty of room.I got well over 25 mpg while crusing at 75-80 mph.Best vehicle ive ever owned.I never had a minivan,but would buy another Odyssey again.

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  Luv my Odyssey!!! - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By Vrah - June 7 - 10:00 am

  After test driving the 2004 Sienna on at least 5 different occassions, I ended up going with the Honda Odyssey. Yes, the Sienna has great features such as a split rear seat and power rear door (on the XLE), but I felt the Siennas engine, suspension and brakes were a bit soft. Plus, there are WAY TO MANY option packages offered on the Sienna. A couple of dealers told me I couldnt choose which options I wanted, but rather pick from what Toyota sends. Overall, the Odyssey was a better fit for me.

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  loving my honda accord - 2001 Honda Accord
  By eddiel - June 7 - 10:00 am

  I owned a Civic before and this Accord is much better car. The handling and acceleration is very good. The value of the car is excellent. I would recommend this car to anyone who wants a very reliable car.

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  Excellent 03 Civic - 2003 Honda Civic
  By allgood - June 7 - 10:00 am

  After buying this car I was very satisfied with the gas milage and power. The power isnt as much as an s2000, but its good enough.

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  03 Accord - 2003 Honda Accord
  By cvic22 - June 7 - 10:00 am

  For a car that has most everything the average consumer wants, without the unnecessary extras, look no further than the Honda Accord.

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  Traded in my Mercedes - 2004 Honda Accord
  By PhysiciansInc. - June 7 - 10:00 am

  For the last 15 years I have driven Mercedes Benz automobiles. Honestly it was part of my image, I took tremendous pride in the appearance of my vehicle a 500SL convertible which I had paid over 85k. At 46k miles I experienced several mechanical breakdowns so I took it to the dealer without any help: Fustrated I rented a enterprise rental vehicle (a honda Accord) to drive 500miles I was so happy I sold my mercedes and purchased this flawless Accord with Navigation system. I must admit I dont get the thumbs up from passers bye but the overall confidence of this vehicle and predictability factor is worth it!!..

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  GREAT regardless of the weather - 2009 Honda Accord
  By Tom Ballantyne - June 7 - 7:26 am

  I drive at least 25,000 miles per year, and this HONDA auto, with high performance all-season tires is GREAT regardless of the weather. This is very sporty and comfortable for me and my friends who ride with me all over the country, and driving up to 9,000 foot high mountain roads, this is still VERY NICE!

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  07 Accord is lovable - 2007 Honda Accord
  By Ron - June 6 - 8:23 pm

  We have enjoyed the car immensely. Every time someone sees it they say it is such a beautiful car. In addition, they mention to us how reliable and how good the gas mileage is.