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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  A Honda family - 2005 Honda Accord
  By Robert fochtman - January 2 - 3:06 pm

  I own a 2002 Honda Accord V-6. My wife had a 2002 BMW 225. We replaced the BMW with a Honda Accord Hybrid. So far we have had a very positive experience with the new hybrid. Our driving has been expressway/city street and we have averaged 32 plus miles per gallon. On the expressway we seem to get about 36 MPG. Love the car.

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  2004 Honda Pilot - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By Scott - January 2 - 1:28 pm

  Great SUV. Good Power, Fun to drive. Fuel $$$ POOR. We Have a Odyssey also. Reliable & Good Value.

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  Great SUV - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Clay - January 2 - 1:31 am

  Other than the tranmission recall and free oil changes, was in shop once for RR door rattle, fixed. It lives up to its calling, it seats eight, but only put small kids fit in back. Seats fold down for carrying cargo, hold road well, no vibration or other problems reported by others - thats with the Goodyear tires - the Bridgestones dont do that. Problem reported about bad sound problem with windows down - thats only if you have just the rear windows down. Holds road well, 4WD works when needed. Looks like Ill get about 24K miles on original tires. Get 15MPG in tight city driving (Dallas), 19-20 on highway, I drive agressively. Carries a LOT with rear seats down. Pleasure to drive!

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  Wise Choice - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By Rod - January 2 - 1:10 am

  Excellent performance overall. My only complaint would have to be the paint job which is very easily marked by the slightest contact. I have driven my CRV on lengthy road trips from Florida to Virginia several times and can honestly say that I have no complaints. My CRV has received three recall notices for minor adjustments which I could not notice as far as performance goes. The only time I used the warranty was when my door lock on the drivers side would not accept the key. I will soon have 60,000 miles on it and have replaced the tires once and make sure my oil is changed every 3,000- 5,000 miles as suggested.

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  Cant Go Wrong... - 1998 Honda Civic
  By Angela - January 2 - 12:04 am

  I bought a 1994 Honda Civic in 1999, but sold it to upsize to a truck (2001 Toyota Prerunner). Recently, I sold the Prerunner due to its poor gas mileage. Im a college student and commuting back and forth to school required me to fill my tank about twice a week, totally emptying my wallet. I decided to buy another Civic because I had no complaints with the first one they are cute, reliable and efficent cars, and I will probably keep this car till it dies on me (or till I die, whichever comes first). I love my Civic!

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  Best Car by Far - 2006 Honda Accord
  By William - January 1 - 9:50 pm

  This car has been really great to my wife and me. I have always heard good things about Hondas but never bought into the hype. After owning other new cars, the Accord has the best ride and performance.

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  Disappointing reliability - 2001 Honda Odyssey
  By TMeehan - January 1 - 8:45 pm

  Factory tires didnt last long. I have replaced brakes twice. The transmission has failed. Then Honda didnt stand behind their warranty. It is a dull uninspired people mover. I would certainly consider other options if I had to do over again.

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  Over-rated vehicle (2001) - 2001 Honda Odyssey
  By Joe Lojek - January 1 - 8:10 pm

  I have had 2 transmissions replaced by Honda. Only have 89k on odometer. Bought car new have two other Hondas. Oddessy highly over-rated vehicle. Tires need to be replaced at 30-35000 miles (on 3rd set) regardless of type or driving habits. Numerous other ankle biter problems, gas cap door sticks (5x), brake noises, replaced radiator after 2000 miles. I am not happy with this van.

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  Ron`s Car - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By Ron D. - January 1 - 4:09 pm

  Great car to drive(fun), solid,very reliable, maintenance free, good style. Would recommend to buy. Feel very safe in vechicle, Wife`has no fear of driving in the snow.

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  the bomb suv - 2004 Honda Element
  By buda - January 1 - 11:44 am

  This car is the best investment I have ever made in car. I only wish I could have a fleet of them so when one get old i can have a new backup. Need I say more?