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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  Great car! Period! - 2000 Honda Civic
  By Civic in Puerto Rico - August 11 - 2:00 am

  This is my first car, and I definitely have to say that I have no regrets on purchasing it three years ago. I live in Puerto Rico, and this car has suvived above 90-degree weather year- round. I hope to keep on buying Hondas, if they are all like this!

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  Love my car! - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By bobbye - August 11 - 2:00 am

  Before I purchased the 2002 CRV-LX, I had a 1997 CRV-LX. I didnt think anything on the road could top that - until I got the 2002. It seems Honda really researched and listened to owners. Everything about this car is better.

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  My First Japanese Vehicle - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By pnmvroom - August 11 - 2:00 am

  I never could bring myself to buy a foreign car but thankfully, I changed my mind. Our Honda CRV has been a pleasent surprise. The I4 cylinder engine has plenty of pep around town. My only complaint; passing power above 60 mph (give yourself a little extra room). Its very comfortable, easy to manuver and park. Interior cargo and passenger room is ample. Im getting 21 mpg in town; 28 on the highway. I did a lot of research before purchasing my CRV. Bottom line...dollar for dollar this is the best SUV on the market, hands down.

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  Great little car - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By Jacm2 - August 11 - 2:00 am

  Handled the snow, the wet, and the camping stuff. Does well on highway and dirt road. Great MPG, but it is a 5 speed, not an automatic. Handles well, and the little features like bag holders, picnic table, and drink holders just make it more fun.

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  Excellent - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By Nagalla - August 11 - 2:00 am

  Fun to drive. Great visibility of road and 180 degrees. Overall, it is a great vehicle.

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  A year of research paid off!!!!! - 2001 Honda Civic
  By Raptorsfan - August 11 - 2:00 am

  I did well over a year of research before I made my purchase. Well it has all paid off in the end. I purchased the Civic Si(Canada) and have 65,000 km on it so far. The only times itÂ’s been in the dealership is for scheduled maintenance. I have dealt with 4 different dealerships and all customer service was outstanding. I cant say enough good things about this car. The ride is comfortable (even at the end of a 16 hr drive); it gets great gas mileage (average 45mpg HWY and 35+ CTY) and has great styling. Honda has hit a home run with this car. It has good pick up and go but I would like to see a lot more HP and torque.

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  2nd Review - Noisy - 2003 Honda Accord
  By JoeyC4 - August 11 - 2:00 am

  Well I previously wrote how much I loved my new Accord. However, after about a week the car started rattling and squeaking in several different places. There was one rattle somewhere in the back that was driving me crazy. I took it back to the dealer 3 times before they found out the source. It turns out that a joint in the rear that connects the frame to the body was not connected. They fixed it and I am now noticing the same noise on the other side of the rear. Also the sunroof rattles. I love the performance of the car but all the noises are ruining the enjoyment.

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  Great Car - 2003 Honda Accord
  By vman60 - August 11 - 2:00 am

  Got this car for 600 under invoice. Very well made, inspected the car before picking it up and could not find one defect.

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  An outstanding car! - 2003 Honda Accord
  By jmweberjr - August 11 - 2:00 am

  This car is fantastic. It has great features and drives like a dream. The V6 has some serious giddy-up. I test drove the Passat V-6, Camry V-6 and the Volvo S60 V5, and this car by far has the best pick-up and power. Id highly recommend this car.

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  Look No Further - 2003 Honda Accord
  By mokyde - August 11 - 2:00 am

  Honda rock solid build and fun to drive for 18K. Camry looks stodgy compared to Accord. Mazda 6 is sweet looking and driving but smaller, cheaper feeling and doesnt have that Honda reliabilty history backing it up. Altima quicker and perhaps sportier but not nearly as refined and as well screwed together. For 18K you simply cannot beat it.