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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  love my hybrid - 2004 Honda Civic
  By demisim - March 28 - 10:00 am

  i drive over 25000 miles a year, so saving an estimated $5,000 over 5 yrs in fuel costs. still getting 48.4 mpg, even though i beat on the car and average about 90mph on the freeway. yeah, im a speedfreak and the 85 horses still perform well at this consistant speed.

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  2004 Honda Civic Hybrid CVT - 2004 Honda Civic
  By MT_Cup - March 28 - 10:00 am

  I have to admit to being skeptical. I live in a mountainous area, so performance can be an issue. Not so here. This car is perfect! I can pass other vehicles uphill at 55 mph and not break a sweat! Fun and powerful, this is a great car. With the cost saving hybrid technology, I recommend this car for everyone.

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  Honda Civic - 2004 Honda Civic
  By Lance Klass - March 28 - 10:00 am

  As a New York City native and one keenly aware of our over-dependence on Mideast oil, I turned my attention away from the Accord the dealership was showing me, to the sporty little Civic Hybrid that supposedly got 50 miles per gallon. I was one of the first in New Hampshire to purchase one, and Ive been delighted with it. Im 6 foot 2, and theres maybe 4 or 5 inches of extra headroom. Its a roomy, fast little car, and I get between 43 mpg and 52 mpg depending on the season and whether my snow tires are on or not. Pick-up is great, I love its looks, and its fun to drive. And I feel good that less of my money is going to Mideast oil sheiks.

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  HYBRID! - 2005 Honda Civic
  By lilaintenough - March 28 - 10:00 am

  my main concern when buying the car is the pick up because i was worried with gas/electric if it would have any kick to it...and i was extremely shocked to find the pick up was actually great. obviously you cant beat the gas milage...had the car 2 days, and getting 32MPG...will soon be near 50. the display panel is so cool you need to remember to pay attention to the road. stero is a good stock stereo. roomy interior. absolute great car!

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  I love my car! - 2000 Honda CR-V
  By Gina Sue - March 28 - 2:00 am

  Cutest car ever! It is the perfect size big enough that I can see but not like Im driving a bus. I highly recommend!

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  great family car - 1997 Honda Civic
  By Diego - March 28 - 2:00 am

  reliable, durable, perfect car for commuting

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  Great car to drive - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By tabbuck - March 28 - 2:00 am

  We have owned the EX Pilot for about 10 months now and have 10K on it right now. There have been two problems with the car which were taken car of, the center console lid would not stay closed and there was a body popping sound in the left front fender (loose strut mount nut) The ride is great especially for long trips. It also has handled the snowy High Sierra with ease. Three dislikes are poor fuel economy 15 MPG 17 MPG, could use a tad more power (MDX engine would be great), and brake life appears to be much shorter than what I expect to be "normal" based on the 7500 Honda maintenance check.

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  Honda CRV Happiness - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By R Nadel - March 28 - 2:00 am

  Like most if not all automobiles made in Japan the Honda CRV has been the typical start up and go reliability we have come to expect from cars today. Bob Nadel

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  Awesome Ride! - 2003 Honda Element
  By seanneal - March 27 - 2:00 am

  The Honda Element is great for hauling stuff around, road trips, commuting, grocery-getting, sight-seeing, and about anything else you think of. I commute 50 miles everyday, and look forward to my commute because I love riding in my Element...

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  Huge bang for the buck - 2005 Honda Accord
  By BDH - March 26 - 6:03 pm

  This is our third Honda, and it just keeps getting better. Compared to other cars in its class, it was an easy decision for us. We opted to go with the 4 cyl EX-Leather to save some money. Though the 160hp motor is no powerhouse, it certainly gets out of its own way. And the i-VTEC delivers power when you really need it. The drive is great, the styling and build quality are superb. We are really enjoying this vehicle. Its the best Honda Accord to date.