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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  Very disappointed!!!!! - 2008 Honda Odyssey
  By T Ruddle - August 4 - 11:10 am

  Have had back to dealer multiple times for various problems. The rear power hatch stopped working - needed new motor. The transmission clunks into gear - had lever/linkage adjusted but still doing it. Radio reception is terrible and overall its a noisy ride at highway speeds. Anyone getting 20 mpg must be coasting downhill with engine off....best so far in 5000 miles is about 17mpg!!! Would I buy again - never!

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  a great car - 2005 Honda Element
  By doug adams - August 4 - 6:40 am

  just a great vehicle. drives like a truck but gets good mileage and very roomy. pickup is a little off but is a great vehicle

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  Fun for $14,000 / Cheap to Own. - 2005 Honda Civic
  By Blake - August 3 - 9:36 pm

  I think if you are looking at a compact car that gets great gas mileage, you have to check out the Civic. It is reliable, fun, and nice for the price. I think you will be surprised with what you get for what you pay. The LX has all the stuff you need. A/C, CC, PW, PD, CD, keyless entry.

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  Just sold it and now miss it! - 1995 Honda Civic
  By Idahoaggie98 - August 3 - 3:47 pm

  We just bought a 2003 Honda Odyssey because we simply outgrew the smaller civic. Its been my wifes car for almost 7 years. We have never had any problems. The interior held up extremely well. I loved the way it handled. After 120,000 miles, everything worked and the car almost looked like new when we sold it.

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  Great car - 2005 Honda Civic
  By Matt - August 3 - 3:26 pm

  We traded in an 04 Grand Am for the Civic and love it. Its a much more fun ride than I expected, gets great mileage, and is comfortable.

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  simpley awesome - 2003 Honda S2000
  By kingdog - August 3 - 10:00 am

  this car is awesome for the price iam a honda tech and we never see these cars in the shop

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  elementally prepared - 2003 Honda Element
  By candj - August 3 - 10:00 am

  Have had this car for 5k miles, 4 months. mainly got it cause it fits my mtn bikes without disassembly. also good for: hauling furniture (hauled a 6ft sideboard table), camping, commuting to work, parallel parking in the city, striking up conversations with bemused strangers. cant wait to see what kind of foul weather next winter brings us, cause the 4 wheel drive will come in handy. cant beat the utility this car provides for $20k.

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  2003 Pilot - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By bull - August 3 - 10:00 am

  Great car. Honda has a solid reputation. This is my second Honda. Bought the Accord years back and thought it was time to return.

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  Honda Pilot - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Laura - August 3 - 10:00 am

  I adore this car. I traded in my Volvo wagon for it and would never look back. The main bone I need to pick is the difficulty in setting up the DVDs to play from the front seat- I need to climb into the back seat to use the menu feature and that is a major PITA. ;)

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  CR-V revu - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By sjurey - August 3 - 10:00 am

  As a busy mom, transporting and hauling the stuff of a family is so much easier and more fun in my CR-V. Kids, dogs, groceries, science projects--they all can fit in this vehicle. Reliable, easy to maintain, and fun to drive -- the CR-V has been a great addition to our family.