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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  Amazing Pilot - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Pablo - July 17 - 2:00 am

  This SUV is incredible. I look forward to driving it every weekend. It feels tall and solid on the road, has no rattles or sqeaks and takes me everywhere I want to go—on road or off road. It feels like I am driving a $50,000 luxury sedan, not a sport utility truck.

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  Great - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Pilot fever - July 17 - 2:00 am

  Best in its class. Wanted a Toyota Sequoia. For the money, the Pilot wins. Much better at the pump. Just wish it didnt have painted bumpers, one thing I liked about the 4Runner. and CRV. Rides like a Full Size SUV.

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  Great Car!!!! - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By steveo - July 17 - 2:00 am

  I love this car

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  Great Car!!!! - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By Steveo - July 17 - 2:00 am

  I love this car

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  This is a REAL Car! - 2001 Honda Accord
  By joe thompson - July 17 - 2:00 am

  I bought this 2001 car new. For me it was a move up from a smaller Nissan, and I had been considering a Civic or a Corolla. A friend with me remembers my saying when I started out the lot, "THIS is a REAL car!" and she knew in 20 feet that I would buy it. Now, 20 months and 20K miles later, I feel I "know" the car and am as delighted as I was when new -- of course, it is still the same, so it might as well be new. No service work (besides oil change) has been necessary.

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  Best little secret in sedans - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Aggord - July 17 - 2:00 am

  This 4 cyl LX is an amazing feat of engineering, economy (cost and fuel), and safety. Our test drives compared it to the Jetta Wagon, Mazda6, Forester, Camry, and Altima. The Accord was the clear winner in every consideration. Mazda6, Jetta, and Forester were close seconds, but were all at least $1K more. Perhaps I am biased (this is my 3rd Honda since 1989), but this car has been great.

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  Impressive - 2001 Honda Accord
  By TheKrispies - July 16 - 5:03 pm

  The best mechanic Ive ever known once told me that if I never wanted to see him again to buy a Honda. I am impressed with the interior room and comfort offered in this vehicle. It has become the car of choice for a night on the town with my husband or a long road trip to visit friends and relatives. Its simple the nicest car Ive ever owned.

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  Jeannes Opinion - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Jeanne - July 16 - 5:40 am

  I like a vehicle that is higher so you can see what is going on up ahead. Very roomy and comfortable.

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  Love my new Pilot! - 2016 Honda Pilot
  By Justin Wall - July 16 - 1:30 am

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  Redesigned 2017 CR-V - 2017 Honda CR-V
  By Art Cabs - July 14 - 11:25 pm

  This new design for the CR-V is totally exceptional, the body of the car is longer with more cargo space, but also more leg room inside. With the new added safety features for the CR-V, you feel extra safe knowing that the car is always thinking for you. So many things on the car make it a comfortable drive on a long road trip, really smooth, great power and easy to navigate the info system, still learning what is what. A lot of high tech stuff built into the console. Only had it for a month, and we are totally happy, looking forward to some road trips this summer.