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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  First SUV, Long time Honda Fan - 2002 Honda Passport
  By CRVFan - March 31 - 2:00 am

  Just recently purchased this Vehicle. The exterior/ interior looks great. The ride is smooth, handles well. I have owned several Hondas and loved them. I wanted a mid size SUV and CRV EX 4AWD seemed like the right choice.

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  Great Car - 2000 Honda Civic
  By Pete A - March 31 - 2:00 am

  I got this car used 2 years ago, Ive been driving it far distances daily as I go to work and come back, it has great gas mileage. Very fun car to drive, might need a little more horsepower, but overall nice.

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  Is there any other car to buy!!! - 2007 Honda Accord
  By Keith Shoemaker - March 30 - 11:46 pm

  I bought this car after doing my home work on Toyotas, Hyundais, Acuras, and Nissans. There was no comparison to be made. The engine was smooth and powerful. The handling quick and agile. The comfort level was incredible. And the over quality is fantastic. Best car for the money, maybe even for more money.

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  Great Family & Utility Car - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By Dan Prince - March 30 - 12:29 pm

  Sold for 2k OVER Edmonds excellent status!

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  Bang for the buck - 2007 Honda Civic
  By kiddoinseattle - March 30 - 10:40 am

  I went shopping for the LX or EX, but when I sampled the Si my mind was made up. Ive driven 2,000 miles in the three weeks Ive had it so far and am very impressed with the car. I was drawn to the Civic line due to the quality, reliability, and safety. I fell for the Si because it suits this accountant who has a fun side in addition to a toddler. The interior has really grown on me and I find everything very easy to use. The seats are outstanding, great for trips and sporting. Transmission is superb as is the steering communication. This engine requires a driver who pays attention though. Great overall room, functionality, and value. Beats Mazda 3, VW GTI, Cobalt SS.

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  Great - 1999 Honda Civic
  By Angelcake - March 30 - 2:00 am

  I myself have enjoyed having my honda civic.It always start up with no problem ,but like any car it just need to be loved and cared for.

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  MY ODYSSEY - 2001 Honda Odyssey
  By MARK EDINGER - March 30 - 2:00 am

  THIS IS BY FAR THE BEST MINIVAN IN THE MARKET. MOST OPTIONS AND FEATURES FOR THE MONEY, BEST CRASH TEST RATINGS, AND YOU DONT HAVE TO LEAVE THE 3RD ROW SEAT AT HOME TO GET MORE CARGO SPACE.

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  Fun, comfort and room - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By Fancy - March 30 - 2:00 am

  This smaller sized SUV hugs the road well, has very comfortable seats even for long periods at the wheel and has the advantage of fitting in just about any parking space easily. While its cargo capacity is not as large as larger SUVs, its handled all my needs so far, from large furniture boxes to good sized trees. Any one whos driven it really loves it.

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  Typical honda ... which is good - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By cynic - March 30 - 12:56 am

  Bought this car in November 2004, almost 8k later still enjoying it and the mileage is improving to about 18mpg.

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  this civic is the shiznit - 2002 Honda Civic
  By #1 CiViC - March 29 - 9:36 am

  i have had this car for about 6 weeks and i think that honda is still the #1 car out there...i use to have a 95 civic and that one was great i just felt like going with something new and i had 145g on the car and it still ran like a dream! so i got the 2002 civic...i havent had any problems and i love the stereo system and i can fit more people comfortably in this one thatn my old one...my suggestion is go with HONDA.