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:

• 

  so far so good - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By michelle - October 28 - 3:30 pm

  We traded in our 2002 explorer for this car. The Explorer fell apart LITERALLY so we decided the Pilot gives up all of the comfort of the Explorer with the reliability of a Honda. So far we love it. Very roomy and so much storage. The kids love it as well. Cup holders everywhere for them.

• 

  Why they call me HOT TRUCK! - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By HotTruck - October 28 - 9:43 am

  I was one of the first to purchase this odd looking truck back in May 05, and I must say 18 mos later, it is the most fun ride I have had since my Nissan 300 Z in 1984. Super reliable, a real head turner, and fulfills all my suburban/back road weekend needs and fantasies. Every time I stop for gas, a guy will come up and ask to see inside, and get my opinion. I outright love it! I dont understand why it isnt a big seller, but thats ok, because it just makes mine look that much more unique. HONDA really hit this one outta the park, as far as Im concerned.

• 

  Wise choice - 2006 Honda Accord
  By dennis - October 27 - 11:10 pm

  I bought my accord in Jan. I am very impressed on the quality and comfort of this fine sedan. by far the best car in its class. I do recommend spending the extra $$ for the v6 you wont be sorry, It kicks.

• 

  Great value - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By Michael - October 27 - 10:20 pm

  We have been extremely pleased with the Pilot thus far. The fit and finish on the interior is excellent and all of the controls are fairly intuitive. The car is a pleasure to drive and provides plenty of power around town. We were also impressed with the amound of room in the vehicle. My wife works out of the car and it provides a great platform for a mobile office. A great family vehicle.

• 

  great efficient performance - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By rodolfocr - October 27 - 10:00 am

  This is a great suv, having the hondas sporty handling, good turning in twisty roads.

• 

  unable to fix noise - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By W. H. McCullough,M.D - October 27 - 10:00 am

  My Pilot has a "clanking" noise in the right rear wheel area when on rough roads. I have taken it to both the local dealers. One replaced the right rear drive shaft, to no avail. The other dealer also documented the noise and called Honda. He was told that "all Pilots make this noise." It is in the trailing arm, they say. I wish one of their higher-ups could drive it! I would certainly be surprised, if they all made this noise!

• 

  the best i ever bought - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By Dona - October 27 - 10:00 am

  I love this car. Its the first i ever bought and i love it . It gets me where i need to go and is great on gas.

• 

  Ann list - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By Abixit - October 27 - 10:00 am

  It is fun & reliable. I bought new. I had a problem with the folding of one seat. It was repaired- only it took 4 days & a weekend to replace the track system.

• 

  Best Car Ive Ever Owned - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By B8004 - October 27 - 10:00 am

  This is very reliable and its fun to drive just for the fun of it. It doesnt feel too lightweight like those other small SUVs. They feel like if you went over 50 MPH theyd fall apart. This SUV feels sturdy and it looks good. It looks so small on the outside but when you sit inside its roomy. It is very comfortable, its a Honda, a big name in reliability. If this were a Ford it would have already hit the shop more than a few times. No problems yet. It doesnt suck up gas as fast as other SUVs but just a little more than Civic. I love the vehicle, this is the first reliable car Ive ever had. Honda always outdo themselves and the competition every time.

• 

  safety after crash totaling my CRV - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By ahakooz - October 27 - 10:00 am

  I just wanted to say that my CRV was the only car I was in an accident with. I rear ended a lady at 60 mph when her brake lights didnt work and I hadnt realized she was standing still. My CRV was totaled..but except for the airbags that deployed, You would never have known it from the inside. Now the outside was a different story...but the safety factor is incredible. I walked out .. dazed by the airbag..but unhurt. I did have some seatbelt bruizing to my chest... but thats it. Im on my 5th Honda now.. I have an Accord coupe, and Ill keep going back for more.