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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  Vehicle of my dreams! - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By lindad2987 - September 30 - 8:46 pm

  I did a log of comparisons on vehicles and went out to buy a Toyota Highlander. There was no comparison in the features, ride and price of the Honda compared to the Honda. A trip recently was the most comfortable trip by vehicle I have ever had. Honda has made me a buyer for life!

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  Civic Si is too much fun - 2008 Honda Civic
  By Curt - September 30 - 6:26 am

  Bought this Si about a week ago and have had a hard time leaving it parked. This car brought the biggest smile to my face that any car has given. Not only do you get amazing performance, but going down the highway I averaged 33 mpg. I havent had it for very long, but this car is one of the best deals I have ever gotten on a car and it is by far the most fun I have had in one.

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  Is there a better Minivan? - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By Rikki L - September 30 - 2:00 am

  Quite Simply the best minivan on the market. here and abroad. The ride is great, power is more than adequate, beats my 98 Widstar hands down. The dissapearing third row seat should win an innovation award. It drives so well I am hard pressed to decide between the 2003 V6 Accord and another minivan

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  Honda is where it is at... - 2002 Honda Civic
  By markycena - September 30 - 2:00 am

  I have gone from owning a Acura to a Chevy, Dodge, Ford, and now finally back to a honda product. I cant believe the difference in quality... I WILL NEVER STRAY AGAIN. I love my honda!!!

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  Get the best ! - 2006 Honda Accord
  By ddent01 - September 29 - 8:03 pm

  We did extensive research (and test drives) prior to buying our Accord EX. Moving from a F-150 Supercrew (3 of them over last 8 years) to a car is a big adjustment. Given the prospect of $3/gl gas again this is a no brainer and we knew we had to do something. This is our 2nd Accord and we forgot how much fun they are! The 4cyl engine is extremely peppy and the cabin is super quiet. Ergonomics are great and the build quality is very nice. If youre looking for a mid-size sedan the Accord should definitely be on your short list. Yes, everyone has one... but ask yourself why. Just look at the reviews and youll know. BTW, would recommend Milan V-6 as a strong 2nd choice!

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  Honda 2005 accord - 2005 Honda Accord
  By Paul OC - September 29 - 5:03 pm

  Great machine

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  3years 23k miles later - 2013 Honda Civic
  By Vitaliy - September 29 - 4:15 pm

  After leasing this car for three years and recently returning it I think I have a good perspective on what this car is about. Its very cheap to run basic point A to B transportation that tries to infuse a bit of fun along the way. Unfortunately engine and transmission are not up to the task at all without adding another 40hp at least. Fuel economy seemed to be getting worse throughout the years to average of 28mpg. Road noise is horrendous and getting up to speed upon entering highway is an adventure especially if you have passengers. Bottom line if you commute a long ways away and need cheap reliable car this is it.

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  Love my 05 Pilot - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Michael Falls - September 29 - 11:36 am

  Shopped for an SUV to replace a Jeep GC. Looked at Merc Mountaineer and Honda Pilot EX-L. Purchase price was within a few hundered of each other. No comparison, Honda won hands down. Excellent comfort and ride. Third seat works well for small adults/children. Feels large inside. Stereo is great along with sunroof. Drives great in N.E. snowstorms. I am a little disapointed with several squeaks/rattles that have come up during 2,100 miles of ownership. Have trailer tow package and will tow 3,500 lbs this summer.

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  What I love & dont love of my Element ! - 2005 Honda Element
  By Marty Wilson - September 29 - 10:20 am

  I do love this car but dont like the suicide doors in parking lots. Cant load anything unless you have lots of room to open doors. I also dont like the AWD. The cars a little low. We get snow and had a hard time. Ending up pushing the snow like a snow plow.When I want 4 wheel drive I want to engage it myself. I think this car would be great with regular doors. I dont like having to open mine to let clients out of back.

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  Excellence - 06 Honda CRV - 2006 Honda CR-V
  By hdana - September 28 - 3:40 pm

  The 2006 Honda CRV is a responsive, fun car to drive. Honda reliability was a deciding factor for purchase. Our intention is to drive this car for the next 150,000 miles as we have our other Honda.