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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  View from 10,000 miles - 2007 Honda Civic
  By Saki - February 5 - 5:43 am

  My last car was a Hyundai Accent, so my Civic was quite a step up. I love my car. That said, there have been a few problems. The mileage was initially appalling. Used to getting 42mpg from a car only supposed to get 37, I thought the Civic would at least match it. After starting at 29, it was a slow climb to the lower thirties for 50/50 highway/city driving. Im currently faring much better - sometimes 40 mpg highway. Mixed driving around 35-37, suburban/highway. Some trouble starting occasionally last winter. Dealer said it was normal for a Civic. The 100,000 mile Hyundai did better, so I found that a bit scary - or flat untrue.

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  fun in the summertime - 1993 Honda Prelude
  By hunypi - February 5 - 2:00 am

  fun little sports car.miss it so much.would buy again ..

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  Love my Y2k, S2k - 2000 Honda S2000
  By s2000black - February 5 - 2:00 am

  Ive had my S2000 since Oct. 1999. Its the best car buying decission I have ever made. It is the most fun to drive vehicle for the money and has been one of the most reliable vehicles listed in Consumer Reports Magazine. Although it is very reasonably price for its class, the limited production by Honda keeps it somewhat exclusive. After over 3 yrs, its still an attention grabber and still feels just as tight as new. This is a street legal race car. If you want a luxury soft top, get the Thunderbird or Merc SLK. If you love to drive (turn corners & stuff), this is your car.

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  Great Car - 2000 Honda Insight
  By And y Dettling - February 5 - 2:00 am

  This car is a huge step towards non reliance on fossil fuels. SUVs suck! Think about the effects that your personal choices have on the Earth.

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  Finally got my S2K - 2004 Honda S2000
  By Christopher_Nofar - February 5 - 2:00 am

  Best way to describe it: "Everything you need; nothing you dont." I live in Michigan and this IS my daily driver. There is no doubt that this is an "enthusiasts" car. You will wear this car like your best pair of jeans. The 2.2L 04 engine has plenty of torque down low and enough top end to make you feel like youre drivng F1. There are scores of additional updates for 04 as compared to 03. One key note: The 04 model produces significantly MORE power/torque than Honda claims-check out www.vtec.net for details. Fuel economy of 20/25 city/hwy isnt bad for a sports car.

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  Fun to drive all the time!!! - 2004 Honda S2000
  By Ed Northwood - February 5 - 2:00 am

  Great for every day driving if you dont need the room .Theres nothing like leaving work after a long day and racing home. The quicker you get there the better,right? Fast is just half the fun, Letting the top down and looking cool is other!!!

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  Impressive in every aspect - 1992 Honda Accord
  By accordtunerx - February 5 - 2:00 am

  I have owned my accord for over a year now, and love everything about it. It has great interior and exterior styling and is pretty decent on power too (140 hp)... they only problems ive had with the car were an oxygen sensor that needed replaced and the radiator which had a crack in it... other than that, it is a VERY reliable car which i would reccomend to anyone... ive also added some extra modifications to my accord, which include 17" wheels, lowering springs, upgraded sound system, full performance exhaust system, and cold air intake. All of these upgrades compliment my already great looking and performing accord, and make it even more fun to drive!

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  Best bang for the buck! - 2004 Honda Element
  By bbhemery - February 5 - 2:00 am

  I did my home work and compared apples for apples with others in this class.Well let me say that for money you really get the most with the Element!Family friendly and lots of space!The ex comes loaded and lots of safety features which is optional with other vehicles in this class!Its a great deal!

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  Odyssey - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Josph N Niamke - February 5 - 2:00 am

  I have had this vehicle for 4 months and Ive already put 6500 miles on it. It is amazing the way it drive and handle, more comfort and it feels like air ride expecially when driving on long distances. Infact, I love it.

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  Excellent BUY HONDA - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Zelma Butts - February 5 - 2:00 am

  I love to drive this auto because of the great handling features, has good response, and I feel safe