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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  My baby - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Advanced Metal, Inc. - October 9 - 10:00 am

  Love my VAN!! I wouldnt change a thing. I would have paid twice as much for the DVD player...worth every cent.

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  Love it!!! - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By Art1964 - October 9 - 10:00 am

  Had this vehicle for almost a year now. Not a single problem. Fun to drive, lots of head and leg room and Im 66". Nice quiet ride.

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  Not your typical Honda - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By acap329 - October 9 - 10:00 am

  Had to replace the rear struts/shock in the first 6,000 miles (they were leaking?). Well designed interior but try wiping clean with a damp cloth. Paint wiped off from the center console (cup holder) and door handles. Good service from dealer. Front seats are uncomfortable. Good pick-up and did well in Northeast snow storms.

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  Love it - 2000 Honda Accord
  By Frank93SER - October 9 - 10:00 am

  Love this car.Optional fog lites look really classy at night. Like agressive sound as you get on it. No tranny problems plus now has 7 years warranty from the factory. So far I have not had any tranny problems. 42K miles. Interior is easily equal to a $35K+ car.On the con side; Seat back edges wearing from entry and exit if you are not careful getting in. Side pillars too wide and block vision. Dont like the door rake,prefer more horizontial as its difficult for short passengers to rest their arm when window is down. Passenger seat too low.Planning on installing 55 series performance tires. The michelins are good and quiet but make for a mushy ride.

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  Love my CRV - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By Wired - October 9 - 10:00 am

  For city driving, and for the price, this vehicle cant be beat. It is roomier that any other in its class, and the Honda engine cant be beat by others of comparable power.

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  You Should Get One, Too. - 2004 Honda Civic
  By ymshimazu - October 9 - 10:00 am

  An excellent car, except when the AUTO ENGINE stops (AUTO STOP), the car stalls momentarily, which causes a confusion. But if you are driving a long distance, the vehicle is very comfortable and environmentally sound. I love my Hybrid. I wish more dealers did advertise Hybrid cars on TV. Unfortunately, I rarely see their ads pertaining to Hybrid cars.

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  Gas Champion - 2004 Honda Civic
  By darkstarvn - October 9 - 10:00 am

  this miracle of creation is great. Superb gas mileage, stealthy silent ride both in traffic and at stops. Silky smooth transmission. Great sound system, good performace and great acceleration for a small low horse power car. The quality of the car is A+ and everyone knows Hondas make superior cars. Most mechanics have told me they make the best transmissions unlike most GM and american cars.

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  Worth Every Penny - 2004 Honda Civic
  By KilljoyMcCoy - October 9 - 10:00 am

  Paid $100 under Edumunds invoice, and it was worth every cent. You can tell this car was made by people who take pride in their work--not some typical union shop like Dodge who doesnt give 2 hoots about quality. The drivers side arm rest is awkward, and the stereo is a bit hard to see, but awesome car, fun to drive. Car insurance was reasonable too. You will not be disappointed.

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  Excellent car, excellent price - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Capi - October 9 - 10:00 am

  I started looking for a midsize sedan. I was surprised that the high quality Accord was one of the cheapest one with reasonable amount of equipment. ABS brakes are standard. I add A/C. It is a shame it does not includes powers locks. It should in this category! Drive it and you love it! The feeling is as my previous Lexus, very smooth that only expensive cars give. Although some experts think it lose originality because of the too quiet interior, I think it is a pleasure for the daily commute.

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  Fogels review - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Fogelseven - October 9 - 10:00 am

  My previous vehicle was a 1998 honda accord. I bought a porsha boxster convertable and that didnt even compare to the accord, unfortunatey the previous ownwer didnt keep up with the maitanance of the 98 accord, so the timing belts went. I just bought a 2004 accord and its so smooth. I t hugs the road when you drive in it,and I got the old car fixed and gave it to my brother.The porsha was sold because it didnt compare to the safety features of the honda. Honda will be the car I stick with for life,maybe one day I might switch to an acura though,but honda makes acura.Smile!