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:

• 

  Rides better than m MDX - 2016 Honda Pilot
  By Greg bill - April 9 - 11:38 am

  Honda has it wrong with the way they market... lots of options on EXL but most cars on the lot only come with one.

• 

  Uncomfortable drivers seat - 2007 Honda Pilot
  By mesergey - April 9 - 7:53 am

  For 4 years I had my Honda Pilot 2003 and I loved it! It was a very comfortable drivers seat and had a lot of leg room. I renewed my lease and got a new Honda 2007 Pilot. The drivers seat does not have the same leg room as my previous Honda. That is, the driving seat does not slide back enough and makes driving uncomfortable. ItÂ’s very disappointing to me

• 

  Higher level thinking. - 2005 Honda Accord
  By Jamie - April 9 - 6:43 am

  We like our new Accord a lot, it seems much improved over previous models in overall comfort and looks. I think it looks a lot richer than the old body style did too. Every aspect of this car shows of higher level thinking on Hondas part. I wouldnt hesitate to recomend this car to anyone looking for good fuel milage in a well rounded sedan in the low 20s

• 

  My CR-V - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By Freddie Diocson, jr. - April 9 - 2:02 am

  Great Handling.Pleasure to drive on long trips.Very roomy interior, holds 4 adults comfortably.Great stereo\Cd.Good to excellent gas mileage for an "SUV".Interior design functions great. Both heater and A\C work great. Went om my first long trip to Las Vegas and back then up the coast of Calif and Oregon, almost 3,000 miles and no problems. Handled well in the rain! A great Car-recreational vehicle. Cant help but love this one. Best thing is its a Honda!

• 

  Our Odyssey Journey - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By SoSoOdyssey - April 8 - 7:09 pm

  We were on the market for a minivan (replace 97 Mercury Villager) in 2003, and set to Odyssey since Sienna was redesigned and hot (months of waiting just like Odyssey few months ago). We got good price on the LX ($300 below invoice). The first month the van was back to dealership twice for both front struts. Few months later, the AC was broken, then the clock light. Last month, the engine speed went up and down (between 2000 to 4000) while idling. The dealer replaced the idle control unit. The rear brakes always make noise, but the dealer says it is normal. We now have 23k m on the van, it has been in shop SEVEN(7) times. We have never had any problem with our Toyotas and the Villager.

• 

  I love my Pilot - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By AnnaB - April 8 - 6:55 pm

  I traded in my 850 Volvo Wagon for the Pilot - I cant believe how much more I enjoy the car. The space is great! All three kids can bring a friend and watch a movie while I can listen to whatever I want. It has 32k miles and not a single proble! Great Car!

• 

  50K and still good - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By toddhopp - April 8 - 1:25 pm

  Having just re-read the long term test for the 2003 Pilot I wanted to relate my long term opinion. First, the Pilot was the family choice over a mini-van. It is used 60/40 for city/highway driving. It has been extremely reliable everyday. It hauls 4 to 6 teens daily with backpacks, music instruments, ect. Bikes, sleds, and two retrievers on selected weekends. In other words this is the perfect urban/suburban vehicle. If you are researching the Pilot please read the long term test and youll find that the 2005 Pilot corrects all of the negatives in the article. Coming out of the third northern Ohio winter with my 2003 Pilot, I wouldnt want any other SUV.

• 

  The Best - 2006 Honda Civic
  By fry fry - April 8 - 12:50 pm

  This car has everything youll ever need! Drives smooth, has excellant audio system, handles like a race car, and is very comfortable in the front and rear seats. Excellant on gas which is important nowadays. I highly recommend this car for anyone looking for a great value and trouble free ownership, also for anyone looking for a good time!

• 

  Best elements of all vehicles - 2003 Honda Element
  By juannyc - April 8 - 10:00 am

  I really am enjoying my Element DX (FWD) – have 12,000 miles on it! The fuel economy average is about 27 mpg. It has enough power to get the job done and can pass another car OK. Has done well off the beaten path too. I traded my 2002 CR-V for an Element and it handles much better, corners confidently, has a smoother ride, seats have more hip-room (not as comfortable), and feels a lot bigger inside. Can move furniture with great ease; great for car camping. Folding seats work well, though require some strength. It’s a good value, doesnt waste gas and like the looks, I highly recommend it Besides being a reliable Honda, its just FUN to drive!

• 

  mixedemotions - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By ahondaluvr - April 8 - 10:00 am

  very capable machine. Ive owned hondas for 15 years and it is every bit the quality and reliability that you expect from honda. been in shop twice, both for minor recalls. No malfunctions AT ALL. The killer is the seats. So uncomfortable that I can barely walk after my long trips (see annual milage). Wish I could stand to drive because everything else is perfect.