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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  Honda Vet moves to SUV - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By rave - April 24 - 10:00 am

  I did my share of research for a well priced SUV that could provide a good value & resale value as well. It ended up right under our nose. The Honda Pilot. The Pilot has everything that I believe an average SUV buyer could want. The colors & interior options are great as well. I love everything about it. We owned a Pontiac Grand Prix GTP & it got 25mpg easy. I havent gotten to that point yet with our Pilot. But its new so Im optomistic.

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  My only problem - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By brunerp - April 24 - 10:00 am

  I love the performance of the Pilot; I also like the navigation system. The only problem, so far, is the paint job, especially on the front bumper. It actually rubbed off when I brushed (not crashed into) a snow bank. Other points on the front of the car show that the paint appears to be coming off (not because of dings). Off course I had to paint to have the bumper repainted at the dealership. Other than that, I love it.

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  Going Piloting - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By cweave02 - April 24 - 10:00 am

  A dream to drive!

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  hondas RAV4 beating sport-cute - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By crunch_82 - April 24 - 10:00 am

  when my mom first bought this vehicle we were, and still are, impressed about the quality build, makes you feel like driving a pilot or accord, and the taut suspension. it is a nimble car based suv that will give rav4 buyers in awe as you stomp on the accelerator. this is one of the better car based suv with high content and good quality backed up by one of the best car companies out there.

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  03 Accord EX 2.4cyl Auto-5spd - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Mrfoxy54 - April 24 - 10:00 am

  After at least a year of research on mid-size sedans (Camry, Acura TL), and a few trucks (F-150 quad, Dakota quad),i ended up going with the best. This car is solid and drives wonderfully. the 4cyl is surprisingly quick, and the transmission is smooth.

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  Another Great Accord...Thank you Honda! - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Gonzo1124 - April 24 - 10:00 am

  This is my 8, maybe 9th Honda Accord. Every time I get one they are better than before. I just change the oil and filter and go. Never do the 5K, 15K, 30K maintenance at the dealer. Do them myself. Never a single problem in almost 20-years of Hondas. I also own a 2002 BMW 325i. My Accord LX is not too far behind at over $15M less. Incredible car, excellent value, excellent ride!

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  Back to Honda - 2007 Honda Civic
  By ejason1974 - April 24 - 5:10 am

  This is my 3rd Honda and I am glad to be back. I traded a 2002 Jeep Wrangler in for this SI. What a difference!! Its like going from a prop plane to a fighter jet. Absolutely amazing.

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  Lovin it - 2009 Honda Fit
  By Carissa - April 24 - 4:50 am

  So this is my very first Honda (owned Fords before this and will NEVER go back!) I love this vehicle. I am getting great gas mileage (about 38-40 mpg) with about 90% highway driving. Driving home from work I am relaxed and comfortable and the sound system is wonderful. Am able to plug in a USB (jump drive) and play music straight from it and switch between sources with the touch of a button. Also the space is great! The seats are easily adjusted and everything is just perfect! No blind spots at all. There is also an armrest which is a plus. This is also my first manual transmission and its easy as could be. I would recommend this car to anyone! Also love the panoramic view! AC is great too!

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  If it does fit, you must acquit... - 2009 Honda Fit
  By 35neutral - April 24 - 4:50 am

  I really wanted to buy a TDI Wagon. I almost did. As a matter of fact, I was an hour away from signing the check for it. Then I test drove the Fit. It was over. Fit 1, TDI Wagon 0. The TDI engine is solid, no doubt. Its the rest of the car that STILL makes me nervous. Plus, Ive always been a Honda guy, and after my last two Civic both went 200,000 miles without a single issue (and I do mean, none) other than air filters, oil changes, and tires, I have no reason to believe that this particular car will be any different. The Fit did fit. Besides, I am getting 45mph without hyper-miling it that much. I mean, the EPA numbers are a joke, I can beat those hot dogging it with the AC at full blast!

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  honda prelude (1994) - 1994 Honda Prelude
  By dgffg - April 24 - 2:00 am

  one of the best cars ive owned in terms of longevity, reliabilty, and looks.