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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  The right choice - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Sergdiez - July 12 - 10:00 am

  I had to make a decision on either the accord or the acura TL. After reviewing everything the accord made more sense from an economical standpoint. It is a great car and fun to drive. It was the best move I have made.

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  New Honda Accord - 2003 Honda Accord
  By john Rhee - July 12 - 10:00 am

  smoother ride then ever. nice handling and lower engin sound. Powerful V6.

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  TSX Compromise - 2004 Honda Accord
  By nvlav8r - July 12 - 10:00 am

  Had been looking at the new Acura TSX. I know it has 40 more horsepower than the 4 cylinder Accord, but that couldnt justify the $4000 savings I got by buying the Accord. The Accord will probably maintain its resale value just as well. The Honda dealer was willing to deal, and the Acura dealer was not. Very happy with the $500 over invoice deal.

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  Fun for the Money - 1998 Honda Prelude
  By TMac - July 12 - 2:00 am

  I have owned my Prelude since 2000 and have only minimal complaints. This is the fastest stock car in its class. Its fast off the line and handles great. The V-Tech engine adds extra excitement beyond 5000 rpms too! If youre thinking about buying this car, you better get a stick shift.

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  Odyssey - 1999 Honda Odyssey
  By BStagg - July 12 - 2:00 am

  Long time Honda owner. Van drives great,is roomy and well designed, but... I am on my SECOND set of brake pads and just had the rotars replaced. Also, the air condition system has never performed like it should, but the dealer thought that was all in my head. Now that it is out of warannt, he would love to find the problem. Overall, somewhat disappointed in the van due to mechanical problems.

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  My S2K - 2002 Honda S2000
  By toddmh - July 12 - 2:00 am

  I love this car

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  Love it!!! - 2012 Honda Accord
  By laurie feigenbaum - July 11 - 8:10 pm

  Love love love this car!!! We are very pleased with all aspects of the car.

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  THE BEST CAR ON THE World !!! - 2002 Honda S2000
  By Todor - July 11 - 4:56 pm

  THE BEST CAR ON THE World !!!

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  This is the real thing - 2005 Honda Civic
  By Badguy23 - July 11 - 1:00 pm

  The Honda Civic Hybrid is Comfortable bu maintains a sporty feel. The fuel mpg was only 36.6 while breaking in but into a head wind for 330 miles the mpg was 46.6 and returning home for the same didtance with no wind either way the mpg jumped to 50.3. And heres the best part, the manual Hybrid was $20350 vs the prius @ 23400 for the same features. A no brainer cuzz the $3000 will pay for the gas for the life of the car. Am I happy I bought it? You BET. I got mine.

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  old style, but great minivan - 1997 Honda Odyssey
  By lsulance - July 11 - 2:00 am

  Very well built. Great gas mileage. Holds six 6 ft. people easily. Built on Accord platform, so its like a car on steroids. Rear A/C a plus. Interior very similar to new style Odyssey, but a little smaller in scale. Made two 12 hr. trips and was very comfortable. 4 cylinder engine makes it a little more difficult to pass on the interstate b/c of the weight of the van. When will Honda make a comfortable place to rest your arm on the door. Not enough padding on the door armrest. 2002 has the same problem.