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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  All Around Perfection - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By Andrew Starks - March 17 - 2:00 am

  Hondas are sometimes derided for being like washing machines: they work all of the time, do their job, but dont give you a lot in terms of excitement. The CRV is a little like that, and while car repairs and quirky gimmicks are exciting, they may not be desireable anyway. One thing I would like to note about the CRV: While the CRV has a four cylinder, it is by far and away the BEST for cylinder available. If youre looking for something with more punch, there really isnt anything else out there. A test drive of the Tribute/Escape six will prove this. The CRV pulls very hard straight from idle.

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  Odyessy is the only one - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By gtags1 - March 17 - 2:00 am

  I wouldnt even consider another van. the ride is excellent, and still delivers very good gas mileage. It offers plenty of room with a deep well in the rear that can hold plenty of gear. Seats remove easily and the rear seat folds into the floor. Excellent crash test results

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  An authentic review - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By accordian - March 17 - 2:00 am

  Anyway, weve had our Odyssey for 10 months now and we love it. We are most impressed with the fun to drive factor. Most people stray away from mini vans because marketing folks make us believe that mini vans are boring. Well let me tell you, we test drove about 10 vehicles (vans and SUVs) before making a decision and no other vehicle at the time was as well rounded and versatile as the Odyssey. The SUVs have about the same room as cars and cost allot more to operate. While the mini-vans have enormous space, a high seating position, and better MPG. In addition, most mini-vans have traction control which helps allot in inclement weather.

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  An authentic review - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By hondaguy - March 17 - 2:00 am

  Anyway, weve had our Odyssey for 10 months now and we love it. We are most impressed with the fun to drive factor. Most people stray away from mini vans because marketing folks make us believe that mini vans are boring. Well let me tell you, we test drove about 10 vehicles (vans and SUVs) before making a decision and no other vehicle at the time was as well rounded and versatile as the Odyssey. The SUVs have about the same room as cars and cost allot more to operate. While the mini-vans have enormous space, a high seating position, and better MPG. In addition, most mini-vans have traction control which helps allot in inclement weather.

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  I love everything about the Odyssey 2003 - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By Nuodyssey2003 - March 17 - 2:00 am

  This is my first car and it is intend to family usage. Before my wife and I decided to purchase the Odyssey we have been asking, researching, and do many home works and wed finally choose Honda Odyssey. We are fully satisfy with this vehical. We are loving it. In addition, we will recommened to friend and family.

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  Fun commuter - 2002 Honda Civic
  By Zap - March 17 - 2:00 am

  The car easily achieves 37mpg avg. If I take it on a trip it will breach 40mpg. Car corners very nicely but Honda fumbled with the shock/spring settings on the rear end. Car feels a little too bouncy some times. Especially under higher cornering loads. All controls are well placed and convenient. EX stereo is splendid for a stock unit, especially when using the CD player. When it is cold, do hear a few creeks and squeeks. Sunroof slide cover has a minor rattle. Have had to go to the dealer a few times for 1) Side Airbag light, 2)persistant idle problem and 3) a rocking drivers seat. All of these have been taken car of.

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  one nice sports car - 2001 Honda Prelude
  By roblude - March 16 - 11:30 pm

  its been a nice ride and fun to drive i would recommend it to anyone lookin for a nice car with good speed and reliable.

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  Perfect balance of fun and function! - 2008 Honda Accord
  By D&N Stone - March 16 - 8:56 pm

  After researching and driving many different vehicles, we choose the Honda Accord V-6 4 door sedan. Why? Because is has the perfect balance of the things we were looking for without sacrificing any one feature. The 4- door provides the room we needed, the exterior design keeps the "sedan" from looking boring, the gas mileage is great, the price point was right, and the reliability is terrific. We are thrilled with our new car. Kudos to Honda - they got this one right!

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  Da Kine - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By akahele - March 16 - 6:03 pm

  This is the best car I have ever driven or owned. I think it is a much better automobile than even a bmw or mercedes. Unbelievable comfort power and handling. Auto doors good sound system, excellent ac. Visibility is great, drive by wire is very nice when using cruise control. wish it really got 30 mpg though, but ill settle with what I get because its such a good car.

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  Dont Wait - 2008 Honda Accord
  By What a Car - March 16 - 3:43 pm

  I just traded in a 2008 Honda Accord 4cyl for this 6cyl, let me tell you its night and day. The 4cyl was loud and a litte harsh, the 6cyl is a thing of beauty and the smoothness of it is unbelieveable. If you can afford it, definately get the six cyl. When you test drive these cars do yourself a favor and take both models out and youll see what I mean. I bought the Exl version and its perfect for all the features you get. The car rides beautifully but at the same time you feel the road. Ive bought over 20 cars in my life and I can tell you this car is by far the best of all.