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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  civic si - 2000 Honda Civic
  By mrcivicsi2k - August 11 - 2:00 am

  This is the funniest car i have ever been around its reliable, fun to drive, a great looker that draws lots of attention, is practical, and can scream like no other 1.6 liter n/a car out there can can even come close to and the car handles like a dream i look forward every weekend to heading to the mountains for a fun drive no other car in its class could ever offer.

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  Honda 1 - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By mels - August 11 - 2:00 am

  This is the second Honda I have purchased. My first Honda has 90000 mile and I have not had one single problem. I expect the Pilot to perform as my first Honda has and still is. The Pilot is a very comfotable vehicle. I have also towed several cars and the Pilot was able to maintain 75/80 uphill and down. It handles very well and the gas mileage has averaged 22mpg at 13894 miles. For your dollar this vehicle is the best.

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  Better Than I Expected - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By TerreDawg - August 11 - 2:00 am

  I initially had a problem with the fuel injection relay, but was treated with great customer service and follow- up. Since that first problem, I have experienced nothing but pleasure in owning the Pilot. I looked at the Rainer, Murano, 4Runner, XC90, Pathfinder and X5 but would not trade for any of them. It is deceptively large and roomy with sliding second row seats. The ride is extremely quiet and smooth. And, most surprisingly, it takes regular unleaded saving a ton at the pump. I purchased the vehicle because we are expecting a child and I wasnt ready for a mini-van. This was the perfect choice for me and my wife.

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  Happy w/Honda - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By SalemOregon - August 11 - 2:00 am

  After many comparisons between the Pilot, Forerunner & Highlander-- the Pilot won. Ultimately it seemed to be the most functional for my needs, in all kinds of weather. It feels stable and solid. The automatic all wheel drive was a decisive factor, along with the safety rating, and the Honda reputation of reliability.

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  Awards + reviews + value = easy decision - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By Jarnel - August 11 - 2:00 am

  The CRV is not a leader in any one category with the exception of quality and resale value. Need sport car like handeling? Get the Subaru. Need a real off roader? Get the Jeep.But if you want plenty of power, a smooth ride, great milage, plenty of storage space, a thoughtfully laid out interior, and enough off road capacity to get you down that muddy dirt road or unplowed snowy side street, buy the CRV. I recommend the sporty 5 speed manual transmission to work the most out of the engine. It has many other thoughtful features such as a fold down centre tray which allows easy rear access and reclining rear seats.

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  the perfect car - 2004 Honda Civic
  By kevin pierce - August 11 - 2:00 am

  A friend of a fried bought a vw jetta but conceeded that the civic coupe all in all is the perfect car. Unless you have kids or something try not to waste your time or money on another car.

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  2003 HONDA ACCORD - 2003 Honda Accord
  By BOB B - August 11 - 2:00 am

  EXCELLENT VEHICLE, THE ONLY ADJUSTMENT I WOULD LIKE TO SE IS THE ABILITY TO HAVE THE DAYTIME RUNNING LIGHTS FUNCTION IN THE U S

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  Safety - 2004 Honda Accord
  By jhk - August 11 - 2:00 am

  I had the car for two weeks, and loved every second of it...Vrrrm Vrrrm and so comfortable. Then some !%#$!@ rear ended me HARD! The passenger compartment was complete unaffected, even though my rear bumper is in the middle of the trunk. I doubt the body shop will make as good as new, however I will by another.

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  hybrid perfprmance - 2006 Honda Civic
  By ed - August 10 - 3:53 pm

  in the short time of owwnership aug 1 of 2006 we have driven 3,000 miles the vehicle has exceeded my expectaions in all aspects. Acceleration is suprising good fuel economy trip to maine was approx 55 mpg. mileage varies with the amount of foot pedal pressure on the gas pedal. vehicle was rommy and comfortable, handling was excellent. i would highly recommend this vehicle to anyone.

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  goodbuy - 2016 Honda Odyssey
  By Jason Jin - August 10 - 12:20 pm