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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  Great Car - 2008 Honda Fit
  By adkmehrman - October 10 - 6:06 am

  I have had the car for about a month and simply love it. I test drove every other car in the class and the fit was by far the best car. I live in the mountains and commute over 100 miles a day to and from work on winding roads, and this is by far the most fun I have had driving to work. This cars handling rivals many sports cars. I was initially a little worried about the small engine but it seems to be fairly pepppy. The cars interior especially the magic seats are truely first rate. I put the back seats in tall mode and put a blancket down on the floor and it is a perfect place for my dog to ride. I have been averaging about 34 miles to the gallon with fairly aggresive driving. Love it.

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  Go For It - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Keyscool - October 10 - 2:00 am

  I waited 6 months to buy this vehicle because I just couldnt bring myself to spend that much money. I am so glad that I finally decided to go for it. It is by far the best car I have ever owned.

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  Pilot- WOW - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By jk3399 - October 10 - 2:00 am

  After all the research, etc. Honda was the one and the Pilot was a great choice. Did not want a lot of bells and whistles, and Honda has EX or LX, so pricing and dealing easy. Thanks to Edmunds.com I got the LX $800 over invoice which came to quite a bit off sticker. Guess the LX are dealing better as I was very pleased with deal I received, especially seeing many are paying sticker price.

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  The switch from a SUV - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By Got it for the Mom - October 10 - 2:00 am

  Had an SUV for previous 5 years and will never get another one after owning the Odyssey. Outperforms SUV going uphill in snow. Better ride and much quieter. Access in and out of the vehicle is great. SUV was a big ordeal for the kids "climbing in" The van remained roomy on family vacations with loads of camping stuff including bikes mounted on a rear trailer hitch. Powerful engine, drag raced a cowboy in his jacked up noisy pickup truck and blew him away. Paid $481.00 per month on a 48 mo.lease with option to buy for $15K at the end. 12K miles per year.

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  Great Van - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By scubiecon - October 10 - 2:00 am

  When I decided to purchase a van, I did my research. Even though there is little wiggle room in the purchase price, the Honda Odyssey is worth the money. It is a great van.

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  The fun Civic - 2002 Honda Civic
  By jmiller417 - October 10 - 2:00 am

  Dont believe the middling press on the Civic Si; its a great car. You can take my word for it. Im not a Honda freak like some people, though I do have great respect for the company. The Si might not be the fastest in its class, but its plenty quick and much more refined. It feels rock solid like a German car, which makes sense because it was engineered in Germany. I have had very few problems with my car, only minor rattles that seem to come and go with the weather. Styling is a take-it- or-leave-it proposition. I happen to like it.

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  Sexy Automobile - 2002 Honda Civic
  By kbsexyman - October 10 - 2:00 am

  This car is great, iv had it for 15 months and nothing has gone wrong with it. It is very dependable. Also the stock sound system is very good.

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  Best in its class! - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Rob Memmolo - October 10 - 2:00 am

  Thsi car is a lot more than I expected for a $20,000 pricetag. I oftern have people tell how nice my vehicle is and they ask me how I like it. I would strong say its a great bargain!

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  5 Speed - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Scottneon - October 10 - 2:00 am

  Love this car. The 5 speed is very tight and smooth. Stereo is excellent.

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  Excellent car - 2003 Honda Accord
  By dinak - October 10 - 2:00 am

  I have this acr for abour three weeks now and I realy enjoy it. I previously had a Honda Civic EX, good car, then I decide to upgrade. What an excellenet buy! The price affordable except it didnt came with guard doors and side guard so I had to pay $200 extra, but the the EX V6 with four doors, they come with all these extra. Fun to drive and still I am learning all those buttons. I sugest this car to all of you who wants a good car to have fun and drive long trips.