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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  From a Suburban driver to a van lover! - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By elena71 - February 11 - 10:00 am

  With three kids under the age of five, my suburban wasnt cutting it. I was having to climb in and out of the thing to get my kids strapped in and it felt big and overwhelming to drive it around. I swore Id never own a van, but after a test drive and Odyssey 101, I fell in love. Its easy, dependable and safe. My kids can climb inside and right into their seats with no problems. The DVD player has been a life savor during times when the kids need to settle down or be patient (long lines at the bank, traffic,and lengthy trips). Im an SUV lover... but I totally adore my van. This was the best purchase weve made this year by far!

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  My Dream Van - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Trekincat - February 11 - 10:00 am

  I have owned this van for over 1 year, I bought it due to a severe back injury resulting in a 3 level fusion. My old vehicle was like a jack hammer on my spine. After riding in my sister-in-laws Odyssey, I KNEW that was THE van for me. Easy to drive, VERY comfortable,I havent had a single problem with it, I LOVE IT!!

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  BEST SUV OUT THERE!! - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By JC4Christa - February 11 - 10:00 am

  I love the car-like drive. The turn radius is excellent. Well layed-out dash board. The A/C is great, especially since I live in the desert with 100+ temps! Havent had the opportunity to try out the towing package, but I cant wait.

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  Honda Civic EX - 2001 Honda Civic
  By Kingfisher - February 11 - 10:00 am

  This car has been trouble free. It is really a treat to have a car that is so reliable and fun to drive. I would recommend this car to anyone that was interested in having an economical, carefree, and enjoyable car to drive.

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  Excellent daily-use - 2001 Honda Accord
  By jordanyeng - February 11 - 10:00 am

  Bought in for 3 years and I never experience a single break-down. The only things I spent are the scheduled maintainences, oil changes, and thats all! However, do not expect it to be too sporty because of the soft suspension setting that aims for daily- use comfort. Yet, highly recommanded with its built quality and reliability.

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  No Better Car for the Dollar - 2004 Honda Accord
  By rmay483 - February 11 - 10:00 am

  No other car Ive owned or driven combines so many great qualities at the price. Have owned 4 VW/Audi products; drove Infiniti, BMW, Acura, the usual suspects. All fine cars, but I now question why the others command such a premium. Interior quality on par with Audi, engine/tranny as smooth as BMW. Handling not as razor-sharp as the Germans, but below 9/10ths youll never miss it. Styling looks better in person than pictures; not flashy, but handsome and understated. Ive seen several people checking it out while parked. Not a car for hard-edged performance, but quick, luxurious, a pleasure to drive, and an amazing value.

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  I never thought I would like it! - 2007 Honda Civic
  By 69*Goat - February 10 - 8:46 pm

  I just purchased a 2007 EX 2dr 5spd. All I can say is wow! I went from driving a big V-8 to this, and I am having a blast. This car is well mannered, and very fun to drive. When I test drove it, I was thoroghly surprised. I love the fact that I will be passing gas stations, instead of having to fill up every three days. I commute 24-28 miles a day and this thing has no problem getting up to speed with any of the other traffic around me. This car is very comfortable, and the stereo is great. Now my muscle car can rest in the garage during the week, while I drive this EX.

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  Happy at 5000 Miles - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Captnemo - February 10 - 8:43 pm

  Just passed the 5000 mile mark with about half city and half highway driving. Gas mileage has been improving and is now consistently 29 hwy/22 city. Transmission shifting and VCM woes cited by some other buyers have smoothed out. So far, a noticeable improvement over my 98 Accord, which was a gem. Drives and handles well for a mainstream sedan, and it should be evaluated on this basis. If you want sports sedan handling and performance, then pay much more and buy a true sports sedan! Exterior with white diamond pearl resembles a BMW 525 series for thousands less.

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  Dont look like a "Mom" car anymore - 2004 Honda Civic
  By Wendy - February 10 - 6:03 pm

  Drives like a gocart, good gas mileage, after tinting and adding Sirius Satellite Radio, replacing entire aftermarket system, plus extras.. (Oh yea the Factory speakers are actually plastic frames.) I now have added rims off of a 2003 EX Civic. Now the car actually almost looks about right.. The original factory hub cap rims had to go... Brakes have a problem when going down a slight incline once in a blue. Almost feels like it wants to lock up, had Honda Tech check out but naturally no show on the problem. Would like to put a better brake system, when these wear out. For the price paid on this car they should at least have disk all the way around on an LX. 16K on a civic is too much.

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  Love my CR-V - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By Shell - February 10 - 1:24 pm

  Great all around car