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:

• 

  Buy one of these! - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By biskit - November 4 - 2:00 am

  this car is a lifesaver on snow & ice. Incredible go, stop and handling power for a small car

• 

  Balancing Fun and Function - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By Tim Switalski - November 4 - 2:00 am

  I cant say enough about this car. Its fun to drive, very comfortable, and handles well on the highway and in city traffic. The interior space is ample, with a lot of cool features. The all-time four wheel drive is also very good to have, especially in Buffalo, where the winter driving can be a bit challenging at times. Ive probably sold a few of these cars just by letting my friends experience the ride. Go check one out.

• 

  Excellent Mini-SUV - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By Mr. - November 4 - 2:00 am

  I actually have the 2-WD by choice - I dont need the 4-WD in Midwest. This may not be the vehicle for a tall person. But for those of you looking for a well made vehicle under 25K this is a very good vehicle. I love mine. I do occassionally wish for a little more comfort, but if I wanted to spend more, I could purchase a Pilot.

• 

  crv - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By marsha - November 4 - 2:00 am

  This car handles very well in the snow or on dry pavement. It has a very solid feel to it on the highway.

• 

  A Honda Civic Family - 2003 Honda Civic
  By Diane - November 4 - 2:00 am

  Ive done extensive research in looking for a safe, reliable, and affordable car; and all the facts would lead me back to the Honda Civic. After owning three Civics, I thought a change would be good. But nothing could compare. We now currently have three Honda Civics; and sold our fourth. An extremely satisfied customer.

• 

  Great car - 2003 Honda Civic
  By Jas88 - November 4 - 2:00 am

  This is my first honda civic. Ive always wanted one and now i finally have one. Its a beautifull car inside and out. The attention to detail is very good for this class of car. the Engine is good with the available 5 speed and should be mandatory with EX model. The shifts are very smooth and crisp, one of the best 5 speeds around.

• 

  Tribute to Honda - 2004 Honda Civic
  By Taymar - November 4 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle is handsome, reliable and I feel confident in the way it handles in a tremendous amount of traffic & a considerable distance traveled, daily.

• 

  Civic lover - 2004 Honda Civic
  By tgsn2 - November 4 - 2:00 am

  Ive owned my civic for about 2 months and overall I think its a great car. Its very fuel efficient, performs great on the highway and comfortable.

• 

  Nice Car in the Mt. - 2004 Honda Civic
  By Brian Beach - November 4 - 2:00 am

  I love the car I ran it to Western PA and it handled like a dream in the Mountains.

• 

  love civic - 2004 Honda Civic
  By hkj - November 4 - 2:00 am

  I love this car!