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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  No Regrets - 1999 Honda Accord
  By kjandersen98 - December 12 - 10:00 am

  I bought my Accord EX with 35,000 miles on it from a dealer. Never have I ever second guessed this decision. It was like I bought a new car. I drive 150 miles a day to and from work, and this is the prefect car for anyone who is looking for a car that is sporty (I got the 5-Speed) and comfortible. This Accord is as comfortible on the highway as it is on the backroads. The engine does not scream at all at high speeds, it just provides a great ride, and good gas mileage for its class. I plan to keep this car as long as I can becuase I have yet to see or hear of anything better out there. You will not regret buying this car.

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  Great Value!!!! - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Happy consumer - December 12 - 10:00 am

  Shopped every possible SUV out there, Pilot wipes out them all for overall value & quality. I recommend this to anyone needing the functions of a minivan, but yet still want the fun SUV look & drive. This one can be bargained as well, got it for $1,600 under MSRP.

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  LX Impressions at 1Kmi - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By user777 - December 12 - 10:00 am

  Every time I drive the vehicle, theres more to appreciate and enjoy. We were looking for an uncomplicated vehicle without (and contrary to most people) power slider doors. We own another Honda and appreciate the build quality and reliability, but also design and function of both vehicles. They appeal to the engineering side of the driver/owner.

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  Best of the Mid-Size - 2003 Honda Accord
  By gerrym - December 12 - 10:00 am

  Driven only a few weeks but extremely satisfied. Look forward to driving on trip---acceleration, handling, steering. comfort, navi system, all top drawer. No problems to date and absolutely love the car. Looked at Maxima, Lexus ES300, Camry XLE,BMW, and Mercedes C series.all having plus and minuses. Bottom line---the Accord EX V6 can stay will all of them for up to $10,000 less hit on the wallet.

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  Driving with confidence - 2003 Honda Accord
  By 03EX - December 12 - 10:00 am

  I previously owned a 96Â’ Passat. Once it reached 100k miles, it seemed that any little thing that could go wrong didÂ… except for the engine. I chose the 03Â’ Accord over the Passat primarily for reliability. Of course, if it were not for the new body style I would have never considered the car. IÂ’ve had the car for almost two weeks and enjoying it very much.

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  My Experiances - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Mel - December 12 - 10:00 am

  Everythings PERFECT!!! Eccept exterior styling.

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  Great job done for 2003 Honda Accord 2.4 - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Chuck - December 12 - 10:00 am

  Excellent Engine that gives a great speed and performance with amazing fuel efficiency and the best interior design. Excellent build quality.

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  Looks Great and Drives Great - 2005 Honda Civic
  By Liz - December 11 - 2:16 pm

  I just bought my first new car, a Honda Civic LX Coupe (automatic) and I love it. I am 510 and there is lots of leg room in both the front and back. The front seats are good size considering its a small car. It drives very smooth and it is also very quiet. Takes bumps really well.

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  Best Little Car - 2007 Honda Fit
  By Steve from VB,VA - December 10 - 1:00 pm

  Fit handles well. The manual transmission shifts easily and the Fit accelerates nicely for a 1.5 liter engine. he front seats are comfortable; the back seats tolerable for short trips. The floor mats have anchor holes, but there are no mat anchors and the front mats slide around. Gas mileage thus far nearly 38 miles per gallon, mostly suburban driving. Front air dam scrapes on low angles. Easily accessed oil filter for d.i.y. types. Could use a locking gas cap.

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  In my Element - 2005 Honda Element
  By wili315 - December 9 - 12:03 pm

  I have always been an 8 cylinder truck driver. I never thought i would find myself in a 4 cyl. I LOVE IT. The versatility is WONDERFUL and it is all the vehicle you will ever need!