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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  Ultimate UTILITY Vehicle - 2004 Honda Element
  By sweetc230 - March 9 - 10:00 am

  After owning the Element for over a year, I can truly say that this is one of the best vehicles I have ever bought. My one year old, my dog, all of the stuff that comes with a one year old and a dog, and suitcases, etc. fit perfectly. Excellent all wheel drive in the snow. The car also is a blast to get dirty and easy to clean up. Good power from the 4cyl and the automatic matches up well with it. Gas mileage of about 21 in town and 24 on the hwy has been pretty good for an SUV. And, as usual with a Honda, NO PROBLEMS. The car has only been to shop for routine oil changes and tire rotation. Great car, I would recommend it to anyone.

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  Best value of all mianivans - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By J Chai - March 9 - 10:00 am

  Bought an EX two weeks ago for $900 below invoice ($23800) because of factory to dealer incentive. We could not have been more pleased with this purchase. My wife and I love the way it drives and the kids love its space and big windows-for sight seeing. The best value of all the minivans on the market by far.

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  Seduced - 2004 Honda Accord
  By ljgbjgrpgmpg - March 9 - 10:00 am

  Have owned various Hondas since 1981 5 spd 4dr Accord - each is better than the last. We have a 2000 V-6 Sedan and just bought my wife a 2004 v-6 Coupe. I have driven it a bit - and it is seducing me - the silky smooth transmission and the effortless power of the V-6. The transmission is so smooth you could think it was a CVT. However, I like to stir the gears and if I get one, will be the 6 spd. Only change I would recommend to Honda - get rid of the fake wood in the ivory interiors - the brushed aluminum in the dark interiors is SO much better looking.

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  Bullet Proof - Honda for Life - 1991 Honda Accord
  By ljp416jmp - March 9 - 2:00 am

  An exceptional car. Bought new in 1991. 5-speed, 240K miles - ORIGINAL CLUTCH!!! New alternator recently, did new radiator at 175K. Did have broken interior door handles and hard starting in hot weather (2 known problems)...looking at new 2003 Accord but just cant justify it at this time (will eventually by another Accord)...I love this car too much!!

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  GOOD AS THE 2017 - 2013 Honda Ridgeline
  By ed ziringer - March 8 - 11:58 am

  I BOUGHT A 2013

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  7 seat sports car - 2002 Honda Odyssey
  By bertram56 - March 8 - 2:00 am

  We bought a pre-owned w/ 16000 miles. It was in excellent condition, and with the added warranty periods(12/12 bumper2bumper, 100k powertrain) it was a much better value than buying brand new. The only issues we have noticed have been the steering wheel stereo controls went out(promptly replaced)and we are hearing a slight rattle from the sliding doors like maybe the control cables are not secured properly. Other than those two things we have absolutely no complaints. With the 240hp V6 and the responsive steering, I tell friends its like driving a seven seat sports car. We love it.

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  Best suv ever!!!!!!!!! - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By LKS - March 8 - 12:10 am

  The honda pilot is the best suv ever! A very smooth drive, reliable, tough, excellent quality in engineering. There are no words to explain the quality of this suv, just test drive it and youll understand!

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  FOURTH HONDA - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By Bingo1 - March 7 - 12:20 pm

  This is our fourth Honda and overall we are very pleased. The only complaint is road noise (however, we sold a Lexus to buy the CR-V SE). Would love to know if undercoating or different tires would reduce the road noise.

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  Best Long-term Car - 1995 Honda Accord
  By Jonny - March 7 - 2:00 am

  If you want a long-lasting, no hassle car, cant beat the Accord. Mine has 145,000 and has never had a problem. Both the interior and exterior still look good after all the years. Decent power and 30+ mpg with regular unleaded beats most cars made today, great for one 7 years old. I would recomend this car to anyone who wants a good used car. For reference, I sold my old 1992 Accord with 185,000 miles and it never had a problem either.

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  Pretty solid car - 2006 Honda Civic
  By nc - March 6 - 7:30 pm

  Fuel mileage for 2 months about 47 mpg. 42 mpg if drive like an like a teenager. Drive a mix of in town and rural roads. Interstate running 70 about 45 mpg. Seats get a little uncomfortable after an hour or two.