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:

• 

  It just plain gets the job done - 2005 Honda Accord
  By OR driver - June 29 - 8:26 am

  This is a safe, reliable and ergonomically superb automobile. The styling isa bit vague, certainly not as aggressive as Mazda6 or Altima, however this isnt a sports car, its a family sedan meant to transport a family in style and that is exactly what it does.

• 

  The Swetest thing - 2003 Honda S2000
  By CoRkY - June 29 - 2:00 am

  This car is awsome

• 

  Its Elementary! - 2003 Honda Element
  By ItsElementary - June 29 - 2:00 am

  I have always owned Subarus and Hondas its just been my "bag". I looked into buying an Outback to go with my WRX "weekender", but the price was high and style was low. The element really fit the bill, unbelievable to drive and super practical. It is like nothing else out there. Windows down 270watt system pumping, great stuff! Guess what the Element is now my "weekender"!!!

• 

  Great Little Car - 2003 Honda Element
  By herndonk - June 29 - 2:00 am

  Purchased the vehicle because we like to camp and travel to our childrens homes. Lot of room for storage and easy to load and unload. Still have the seats there if we need them once we get there.

• 

  Nice van - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By Jeffts - June 29 - 2:00 am

  Best van That I have ever owned all a great package good price. Good get up and go horse power nice v6

• 

  Love My V6 - 2003 Honda Accord
  By JohnHonda - June 29 - 2:00 am

  I have had the car for two months and love it. I had a 1997 Accord LX and enjoyed it but wanted more. If I could take the 1997 and change what I did not like it is the 2003. The V6 is awesome!

• 

  A New Benchmark for Trucks - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By jbodden - June 28 - 7:23 pm

  It took Honda a long time to decide to build a pickup, but I am glad they finally did. This truck is fantastic. I had a 2004 Toyota Tacoma before the Ridgeline. What a difference! The Honda is vastly superior in every respect. Its design is very intelligent. The ride is amazing! Its simply the best riding truck ever. It is roomy and comfortable. The trunk in the truck bed and the two-way tailgate are wonderful features. It has standard 4 wheel drive,traction control and side air curtains. Since its a Honda, it will do well in crash tests. It has plenty of power and gets decent mileage on regular. All in all, it is a versatile truck that others will be copying for years.

• 

  Love my Fit! - 2007 Honda Fit
  By muybonita - June 28 - 1:56 am

  This little car is a blast to drive and fits my daughter and 275 pound, 64" weighlifting husband perfectly! Ive only had this car for a week, but I get about 400 miles on a tank.

• 

  2013 Accord is a Great Buy! - 2013 Honda Accord
  By sporttracz - June 27 - 9:41 pm

  We bought a 2013 Accord about a month ago. After 1600 miles I have found that the gas mileage is phenomenal. I have averaged a high of 41 on the highway. In mixed driving I average 33. The power is as good as you would want. Who needs a 6 cylinder. The car rides firm but is very comfortable. It handles right sporty. I have owned many Hondas and this one is a great car.

• 

  Honda EXL 4 - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Joe Marasti - June 27 - 6:46 pm

  This is an exceptional motor vehicle. Its ride, comfort and overall performance is an absolute joy.