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 except transmission and load engine noise - 2016 Honda Pilot
  By Seth - March 15 - 9:38 am

  This is our 3rd Honda Pilot Touring. We jumped on this as soon as they came out. Big mistake! The car is nice except the loud engine noise while idling and the 9 speed transmission. I have taken this in twice to see if it is a problem but its how its supposed to be. Slow speed shifting is horrible, very jumpy and your neck goes back and forth trying to accelerate. Its so bad I actually have the car up for sale after 2 months of owning it. This will be the last Honda I will own for a very long time. My suggestion is if you like the car get the 6 speed automatic and skip the 9 speed.

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  blue book value - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By vanessa castaneda - March 15 - 8:49 am

  very fun for athletes, road trips and extrememly reliable. Spacious and safe. Has a picnic table in trunk also.

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  never buy black - 2004 Honda S2000
  By Digby - March 15 - 2:00 am

  I said I would never buy black again. The last black rag top was a Sunbeam. Well I did, and I dont regret it one bit. In fact the car is black inside and out. Feel like a million in her and for a 72 year old, with cancer and all that entails, it is a miracle cure for me. Never had the top up and dont intend to. Wind is not a bother at 85, and at that speed, you cant hear the radio, so reception is not an issue.

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  WOW - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By JJLCG - March 15 - 2:00 am

  Shopped around for months and settled on the Pilot based on reviews/word of mouth. Simply put, I could not ask for more in a family SUV. Not only do you feel extremely safe, but the ride is a dream for such a rugged vehicle. Handling is fantastic and the ride is smooth and quiet. DVD is a must for the kids and the heated seats are a nice touch for 2004.

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  second odyssey - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By Bogman - March 15 - 2:00 am

  We had a 01 that was totaled by a drunk while parked. We were able to get an 03 for only $2k after the insurance settlement. Not bad for a 36k mi vehicle. Ill bet no other make can brag that kind of depreciation. We never considered another van the second time. The Odyssey is THE perfect vehicle in this class, and THE perfect vehicle for our family of 7.

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  Quality is down - 2001 Honda Accord
  By boas9 - March 15 - 2:00 am

  Honda reliability is something of the past. I own two Hondas and one Acura and have experienced major mechnical problems with all. Transmission on the cars are awful and Traction control had to be replaced already. Add minor issues like dashboard bulbs having to be replaced, I believe it is time to look at another brand.

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  A great choice - 2004 Honda Accord
  By kenelson - March 15 - 2:00 am

  Traded a 2002 Acura RSX for this car. Considered the new TSX but for the same money got 40 more horsepower, smooth V6, roomier interior, cheaper insurance, and the Accord uses regular gas. Overall, very pleased. The fuel economy is outstanding considering the power provided. Recently averaged 29 MPG on a trip driving 70-80 mph. The car is very smooth and quiet. Night and day compared to the RSX. Not much to complain about, my suggested improvements are really nitpicking a nearly perfect car.

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  Best on the Lot - 2004 Honda Accord
  By udhills - March 15 - 2:00 am

  I started out with my basic needs, a good sized family car, reliable and stylish. Was contemplating between Nissan Altima 2.5s and Honda accord. This model of accord had better features than Altima with Added features and costed the same. But Accord is so smooth and has perfect handling. With a good resale value and ratings Accord was the final choice.

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  Awesome Car! - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Noobes - March 14 - 8:40 pm

  When I was car shopping, I test drove every vehicle in the same class. This car had everything that I wanted for a lot less money then its competitors. Now that I have owned the car for over a year and a half, it gets better with every drive! Highly Recommended!

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  Awesome Car! - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Noobes - March 14 - 8:40 pm

  When I was car shopping, I test drove every vehicle in the same class. This car had everything that I wanted for a lot less money then its competitors. Now that I have owned the car for over a year and a half, it gets better with every drive! Highly Recommended!