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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  Buy it - 2003 Honda Civic
  By mrmas - February 9 - 3:58 pm

  Outstanding car. Plenty of power, great stiff ride, German feel, good fuel econ. about 27mpg avg. I have had this car since it was brand new, and I will drive it until the wheels fall off. Of the cars in this class, this is the best one. Hatch is handy. Deceptively roomy. Great seats and steering wheel. Brakes are better than average for Honda.

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  Great car, expect many years out of it! - 2002 Honda Accord
  By markusei - February 9 - 9:24 am

  I bought this car from Roadsport Honda in Toronto in July of 2006. I have put about 22,000 km on it so far already and have to say that it is a far cry from my 98 Malibu junk. The honda is responsive and gives pretty good fuel economy. In the cold winter I get about 25 mpg (I did the calculation), Summer gives me about 29-30mpg. Not bad. Good automatic, very reliable vehicle. Does everything better than my 98 Chev Malibu could do. It felt like I was stepping into an entirely different class of vehicle.

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  From GM to Honda... smart move!! - 2009 Honda Civic
  By blink1342 - February 8 - 10:56 am

  Having been a GM fan for years, I see what I have been missing... I am impressed with this vehicle I have had it for a week now, and I cant stop driving it. It makes me want to drive, is fun to drive, gas is great! You cant go wrong with this choice, in my opinion. At least test drive one and youll see what I mean. Good resale value as well. Lease rates are amazingly low compared to other Japanese automakers.

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  My last car! - 2016 Honda Odyssey
  By Ted Person - February 8 - 10:22 am

  Love it!

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  What is this ugly thing - 2004 Honda Element
  By Motomr - February 8 - 10:00 am

  Its ugly but I like the stares. It is dependalbe as all get out and has more room for the passengers than I have ever seen in a vehicle. Havent drove in the indiana snow yet so who knows about that. Good get up and go but wish it got a little better gas mileage. If you can take the ribbing by your buddies, its a good little car/suv/truck/van/whatever and I like mine so far.

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  Great Car - Great Price! - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By teaguerc - February 8 - 10:00 am

  I have had my CRV for 2 weeks now and I cant say enough good things about it! I went from being a mom in a mini van to having my identity back! This vehicle is built well. My husband suggested I look at the CRV and initially I didnt want to because it looked so small from the outside - but then I sat inside! My friends husband who is 61 even sat comfortably in the drivers seat and the rear seat, even sitting behind the driver with the seat all the way back! Fun to drive. Great vehicle.

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  15,000 Miles - 2004 Honda Civic
  By stadtlad - February 8 - 10:00 am

  Ive got 15k miles on this thing now and so far so good, not one glitch except for a slight rattle in the headliner at certain rpms. Other than that its performed flawlessly. I was a little skeptical about not changing the oil until ten thousand miles but it seems to be OK and hasnt burned any that I can tell.

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  4th Accord and best one yet - 2003 Honda Accord
  By paul1707 - February 8 - 10:00 am

  Owned several Accords, 97, 98, 00, now an 03. Loved the 00 the best until this car. It has plenty of leg room inside for me at 63", great performance, proven Honda reliability and build quality, excellent resale value. The 03 has more of a European feel in the handling and the seats. Owned this one for 13 months now and it is the best.

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  Best V6 Coupe For The Money - 2004 Honda Accord
  By In the business - February 8 - 10:00 am

  I have been in the Automobile Business for more than 18 years and have had the opportunity to drive just about everything out there. If youre a practical buyer and not so concerned with image, the V6 Honda Accord Coupe is the best buy for the money. Its powerful, luxurious, highly relaible and depending on how savvy a car buyer you are, it can be had for thousands less than its nearest competitor.

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  2nd Accord within 8 months - 2010 Honda Accord
  By CrtJones - February 8 - 7:16 am

  I purchased an 09 Accord in July of last year. I was unable to locate the one I wanted with navi at the time. I loved that Accord so much that I upgrade to a 2010 with Navi 8 months after buying my 09! The car is comfortable, handles like a dream, and is worth the money. Ive had no problems and have recommended the Accord (both 09 and 10) to many friends.