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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  Great vehicle. - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By rrm151 - July 27 - 7:53 am

  I wanted a vehicle that would comfortably seat 4 adults and still have room for 4 golfbags and luggage for a long weekend. The Pilot meets all my needs. Golfbags fit easily, even between the wheel wells. The ride is very comfortable. Owned it just 3 days so far. I do have a defect in the radio LCD display. If you buy one, make sure you look at the radio with your sunglasses on. There is a defect in a polarization layer on some radio displays. Other than the radio display, its perfect.

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  Steady and Reliable Friend - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By Robert - July 27 - 3:33 am

  Other than normal wear and tear, I have never had to have any major work performed on this CR-V. While it may not be the sexiest SUV out there, it is solid and reliable, like an old friend. The interior has held up well and is quite functional. My major issue is that I only average 20-22 MPG on the Interstate and @ 17-18 MPG city. Also, Id like a bit more low end torque to get the CR-V motivated when I need it to get up and go. Once it is at speed, it is a smooth ride with average noise intrusion. Very good brakes and handling for a SUV. I am very satisfied with my CR-V and I plan to keep it for at least another 5 years.

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  2003 Si - 2003 Honda Civic
  By Mike T - July 27 - 2:43 am

  Excellent car, fun to drive. Not the quickest of its class (spec v, cooper s, RSX) but responds well to modifications, if speed is your thing. Excellent build quality for such an inexpensive car. City mpg is outstanding(almost 30), thanks to the improved iVtec system.

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  Best Decision - 1995 Honda Accord
  By Mcscotch - July 27 - 2:28 am

  I could not have purchased a better car. This was my first adult car purchase, and I debated buying a more powerful or stylish car, but I couldnt be happier. The 5 speed manual is good for 30-35 mpg highway, and the forgiving gear ratio makes acceleration easy. I have put 40000 miles on it, and needed a new clutch (due to an uphill parallel parking spot), new tires, and thats it. When I have the means to buy a new car, I plan to give this one to a family member, because it seems like a waste to sell it when it will run as long as virtually anything on the road.

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  2008 EXL 4 cylinder Honda Accord - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Handyman - July 27 - 2:16 am

  This is my fifth Honda Accord and I have been impressed with the improvements made as we have come through the past 15 years. The 2008 body design is boring and outdated. Otherwise the gas mileage, service intervals, drive and dependability is still pristine. The added features with each new model have been exciting to use and the 2008 was no disappointment

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  Best Value Dollar For Dollar - 2004 Honda S2000
  By EJ - July 27 - 12:04 am

  Hands down the best car I have ever owned. Reliable, beautifully engineered, a true joy to drive. The engine delivers all the power one really needs, the transmission gets the power to the low profiles tires with shift throws that are short and close together. The suspension is stiff, but not uncomfortable, the car really becomes an extension of the driver

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  $11.00 per month on Gas - 2000 Honda Insight
  By sharon wilson - July 26 - 11:08 pm

  I think I was one of the first to buy this car, I spent $11 per month on gas, one fill up. The only problem was people was always coming up to me asking about it. My top MPG was a 230 mile trip in which I got 93 miles per gallon. You wont get a speeding ticket with this car but you will save alot of money on gas, I would buy another one in a heartbeat. It is a great little car. I absolutely love it.

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  Dream van - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By medic-34 - July 26 - 10:34 pm

  This van is everything that a Honda advertises. 240 Hp is more than adequate, very comfortable, all around excellence

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  What A Ride! - 2004 Honda Element
  By TomKat - July 26 - 8:29 pm

  The very best vehicle Ive ever purchased. Perfect for outdoor lifestyle or just driving to work! Great for larger travelling, pets, dogs, pigs, whatever :) Would highly recommend and plan to buy another if this one ever dies.

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  I Love My Element - 2005 Honda Element
  By Ask Him - July 26 - 8:22 pm

  Fun to drive, easy to handle, great turning. I took my Element to the mountains last winter. No problems climbing those steep hilly roads with ice and wind.