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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  So Far, So Good - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By Marty - December 22 - 6:16 am

  Just purchased new 05 Odyssey EX-L in March and thoroughly enjoy driving this vehicle. Very comfortable, smooth and quiet. Engine is still in break in period (650 miles) and recently averaged 21.5 MPG on highway. Lots of usable space, cup holders galore and great seats that keep kids separated. First Honda vehicle owned but expect it to be as reliable as my Toyotas.

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  So Far, So Good - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By Marty - December 22 - 6:16 am

  Just purchased new 05 Odyssey EX-L in March and thoroughly enjoy driving this vehicle. Very comfortable, smooth and quiet. Engine is still in break in period (650 miles) and recently averaged 21.5 MPG on highway. Lots of usable space, cup holders galore and great seats that keep kids separated. First Honda vehicle owned but expect it to be as reliable as my Toyotas.

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  AWESOME - 2004 Honda Element
  By Sylvia - December 21 - 11:22 pm

  Gutsy, gorgeous, and gas efficient! I loved my 2003 Honda Element so much that I bought a second one in 2004 so my husband could have one as well. It is roomy, family friendly, rugged and wicked cool looking to boot. I bought one in green and one in blue, the only colours that offered matching interior trim. I also love the new sky light in back that comes out you can put in its place a screen! I also love the options, I got the running boards, roof rack, interior rubber mats, front seat covers and stearing wheel cover. It is very stylish!

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  What Took Me So Long To Buy a Honda??? - 2005 Honda Civic
  By Ex-Chevy Owner - December 21 - 9:36 pm

  Had a Cavalier because I wanted to support one of Americas Big Three automakers. Turned out to be a major disappointment. Never again! Just purchased a new Honda Civic, a car Ive long admired. I cant believe the difference...its like night & day. It runs great, is a hoot to drive and I feel like a million bucks each time in hop in. Fit & finish are excellent; my old Chevy couldnt hold a candle to this cream puff. Gas mileage is a big plus, and the car overall just feels much more expensive than it actually is. Considered the Corolla but found the exterior to be bland. Honestly, you cant go wrong with the Civic. Im just sorry it took me SO LONG to realize it! Sorry, Chevy.

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  Pliot, best bang for the buck - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Johnny Hunt - December 21 - 9:13 pm

  The 2005 Honda pliot is by far the best vehicle I have ever owned. I have the exl with navagation. It has power, it really drives like a car. I am trading up from a 2002 isuzu trooper. I love everything about the pilot, its a great car!

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  Most wonderful vehicle Ive ever owned! - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By MomOfTwo - December 21 - 3:23 pm

  We did a ton of research, over three months worth, before buying our Pilot. I loved it from the start for the well-designed interior, eight passenger seating (seven comfortably!) and the fact that its not huge like the other three-row SUVs. The middle console is wonderful with lots of storage, the seats are easy to position (excellent feature on moving the middle row for more leg room in the back). Lots of head & leg room too. And its a blast to drive. Our two girls love it! Its definitely more fun for all of us than the caravan we traded in. This is also my first Honda, and Im looking forward to many wonderful years together with the reliability ratings.

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  civic dx 5sp. - 2004 Honda Civic
  By scott cosentino - December 21 - 10:00 am

  great car need to figure out how to clean bottom of back window. The drivers little junk compartment on the left side of the steering wheel needs to be moved up.The brakes wore out initially pretty quick also. the car is extremely nimble and fun to drive. gas mileage was less than i expected and i drive highway predominantly.

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  Great Price for a Really Good Car - 2004 Honda Accord
  By dtzl - December 21 - 10:00 am

  Test drove just about everything out there, foreign and domestic. When it came time to figure it all out, the Accord EX V-6 was the clear winner for me. This car is $10,000 less than the BMW 3 series and Benz C Class. Accord does not handle or ride as well as these (its close though), but quality and reliability are just as good if not better. Accord back seats are more comfortable than both of the German cars...I dont know why anybody would buy an Acura TSX over an Accord V-6. The Toyota Camry is a different story, its a nice car too, I just liked the look of the Accord better.

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  Not what I thought - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Danny9m - December 21 - 10:00 am

  After about 5,000 miles I traded in my Honda for a VW Passat. Here are the reasons. 1) EX had no traction control, isnt part of the EX package. I thought I didnt need it, guess what you need it. When you are pulling out on to a highway when it is wet, you find out you need it. 2) The noise, take a drive on a concrete highway or get on a highway next to a truck. You will find out the skimped on the sound insulation. 3) Take a ride over 70 miles an hour into a turn, or ride on a rough highway at 70 MPH. You will have to hold the wheel with 2 hands, understeer is there.

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  Vroom Vroom - 2004 Honda Accord
  By mreaganslaughter - December 21 - 10:00 am

  Car has exceeded everyone of my expectations. The navigation system is my favorite feature and a must have for those who are directionally challenged!