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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  First new CAR - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By EAB1 - July 13 - 2:00 am

  We evaluated all vehicles for over a year before buying our 03 CRV-EX. Deciding factors were room, lack of center console (a good thing, I like the space left open), and fuel mileage. The automatic is more that adaquate. We test drove a stick and that thing is just plain FAST!!! First tank I checked fuel mileage, got 23.8 in mixed driving, outstanding for an SUV of this size. Drivetrain is extremely smooth. There is plenty of room up front and in back, more than most other SUVs regardless of size.

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  No Surprise Here - 2003 Honda Civic
  By DrChimpanzeeMD - July 13 - 2:00 am

  Theres not much you can say about this car that hasnt been said already. Bottom line is it doesnt get any better than this in this class of car.

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  A truly different driving experience - 2003 Honda Civic
  By VikeKen - July 13 - 2:00 am

  This car produces a different ethic to driving. Many cars talk about creating a different "driving experience," however, the Honda Civic Hybrid truly creates a new way of thinking about driving. I feel more in tune with how my car operates as I continually look at the IMA gauge to see it charge the batteries or assist the gas engine. I pay more attention to details like road noise and my driving speed. Although I can see some drop off in performance at higher speeds, it is entirely workable as the price of the new experience in driving.

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  something new - 2003 Honda Accord
  By mike fers - July 13 - 2:00 am

  nice car, roomy, fast, I just bought it few days ago, already have 600m, I use to dive a Camry, I like the fact that Honda is not a rental car deal. It is always you get what you pay for, this car is not expensive.

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  Major disappointment - 1999 Honda Odyssey
  By Gary - July 13 - 12:22 am

  Bought in 1998 so one of the first. Have had trans, catalytic converter, some other pollution control kit replaced at 80,000 when engine light went on. Got it back afetr new catalytic converter and kit, light went ride back on. Wonder if I even needed them. CD player at 60,000. Dealer servicing was horrible experience. Better ask if something is covered by warranty and also ask them to check with Honda if anything further can be done. They wont do voluntarily and said as much. Two service managers said they would after I asked and I never heard back. I would never buy another Honda. Bought for reliability. Not only was it unreliable, but service department was horrible and useless.

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  Excellent Choice - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Great Vehicle by RS - July 12 - 11:37 pm

  Before purchasing the Pilot, I leased the RX300. The Pilot rides almost as nice as the Lexus. The Pilot is great in the snow and very comfortable on long trips. The NAV works great and is easy to use. The only item that required replacement was a burned out headlight bulb after 50000 miles. I would definetely purchase this vehicle again.

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  fun to drive - 2004 Honda Civic
  By robb. - July 12 - 4:50 pm

  I love driving this car. It is even more satisfying knowing that its good on gas. I get better than rated mileage in this car. I havent even modified it. This car is great for people who enjoy driving and who have needs beyond merely getting there. Its nice to have a spacious small car that still performs and isnt that expensive.

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  Lovin my "new" car! - 1994 Honda Accord
  By 94accord_lover - July 12 - 4:38 pm

  This is my first car, and im really enjoying it. My uncle was the previous owner, and he treated it like it was his own child. 11 years old and only 71K miles! He has had nothing but good to say about the car and so far neither do I. Never been in shop besides routine fluid and filter changes. The gas mileage has been rather good, averaging 31 mpg, but got 38 mpg (!!!!) on a 120 mile round trip. Love the handling. Everything feels so solid, like it will hold up for another 20 years. Design inside and out dont look like 11 year old design. Looks as modern as it did in 94. Great job, Honda!!

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  I like it. - 2010 Honda Accord
  By get er done - July 12 - 5:20 am

  Just bought this car about a week ago and love driving it already. Have had a Honda in the past and after testing the market for others, couldnt resist coming back and Im glad I did. Of course, the more features the better, but I like the ride, comfort and space. Its just one of those cars that you cant be mad at.

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  Nice wheels - 2016 Honda Civic
  By Ricardo arita - July 12 - 1:12 am

  Nice car