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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  CUJO has spoken - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By infernalcujo - May 25 - 2:00 am

  Just got it and i love it

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  Odyssey; The Perfect Family Vehicle - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By Rob Borchers - May 25 - 2:00 am

  We knew nothing about the Odyssey until a test drive and ofcourse fell in love with the magic seat as well as many other features. Upon further research we discovered that the Odyssey was more affordable than most other minivans. We have had minimal glitches since purchase, the main problem is the sliding doors sticking. All else we have experienced has been great, the room is awesome and the power is unbelieveable. We are clearly satisfied and are considering getting a second Odyssey soon.

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  great car - 2003 Honda Civic
  By mr ed - May 25 - 2:00 am

  Great car! Great styling, fun to drive, practical and reliable.

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  my 4th Honda is the best - 2003 Honda Accord
  By lacy - May 25 - 2:00 am

  For the price and after shopping for several different autos, I thought this 2003 EX V6 Sedan has the best bang for the buck. I can not think of another item to add to the interior. My only complaint, which is really small, is the rear exterior view does not match the side or front view. I quess I dislike it the least. The car drives, handles, and is tight. Interior looks like that of a much more expensive brand.

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  Fantastic for the $$ - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Vroom Vroom - May 25 - 2:00 am

  I tried Acura RSX and Toyota Camry before trying the Accord. Won instantly. Love the drive...feels like a luxory car drive, but simple and functional. I feel safe, safe, safe in this car...even in nasty weather. Had a Honda Civic and Acura V6 in the past.

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  Best Car for your money - 2003 Honda Accord
  By brodgua - May 25 - 2:00 am

  I love this car.

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  Fit for life... - 2007 Honda Fit
  By todd_salazar - May 24 - 7:23 am

  Terrific little car with wonderful features for the money. I would recommend this car for anyone that wants a reliable, fun, versatile and reasonably priced car.

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  Drive Green Without Sacrificing - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Natalie - May 24 - 3:20 am

  The only concern I had before buying my Hybrid was the horsepower. But needless to say I have no complaints, I am able to get on the freeway & keep up with traffic with no problem. Since Ive only had my Civic for a few weeks & have only filled up once my mileage was 38.6 mpg. I think once I break the car in that will go up. I constantly catch other drivers staring at the car, perhaps with jealousy!!

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  200K and still kicking - 1991 Honda Accord
  By shoonman - May 24 - 2:00 am

  This car has been great ever since I got it at 75K miles. It drives the same as the day I bought it. New radiator and AC with regular oil changes have kept this car in great shape. The paint seal is going on the hood and yes the antenna needs regular lubrication to keep it retracting (silicone works well). What do you expect from a 12 year old? Go Honda!

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  Why would ANYONE give this a bad review! - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By loonieyvonne - May 23 - 11:16 pm

  We researched before we bought our 1st new car, for about a month! We went through EVERY review and were petrified by the bad reviews that every car seemed to have. We finally bit the bullet and bought the 06 Honda Odyssey! WE LOVE IT! Its by far the nicest of the minivans out there, and its interior room is VERY spacious! We have no real complaints, just suggestions really. This van actually drives like a car, and is very easy to manuver *i used to drive a little ford contour, so this is much larger*