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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  best van to drive - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By todd - July 6 - 2:40 am

  if you want a safe for ur family u want this van and nothing else i dive this van to work and home and get the best gas mileage in the world i cant believe i wasted all that money on a full size ford van i love my honda....

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  Another best design Honda - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By sray - July 6 - 1:33 am

  I always though Honda CRV is a bit fragil suv even though my friends that owned them, loved them. Until now. My wife just purchased a 2005 CRV and I was surprised to see how many features were offered with this suv. Belive me Honda is compiting with german cars (I traded in a Mercedes C320 for this car).I guess I start wearing Hondas cap instead of MB or BMW.

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  The Perfect MUV (Metro-Urban Vehicle) - 2007 Honda Fit
  By Luke the Duke - July 6 - 1:16 am

  The Fit is one sweeeeeet ride. Comfortable, economical, great shifter, zippy performer, handles well. Even though it is a four-year-old design, it shows why Honda garners so many awards and loyal customers. I have heard it compared to the Chevy (Daewoo) Aveo in looks, but The Fit is a much more integrated design, and the interior is light years ahead of the Koreans. No other small hatchback, urban runabout or wagon comes close to the Fit, except perhaps the Scion xA. It is Storm Silver Metallic, sort of an almost charcoal grey, with black interior. The only major flaw is the lack of a sunroof option. Honda, great job! I will surely take a close look at the next-gen Fit in a few years!

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  x - 2016 Honda Odyssey
  By K L Stutzman - July 6 - 12:10 am

  Then second row of seats behind the driver are hard and on back roads the ride is very rough. The driver front seats are ok The tail seats are hard to get into. I have no idea how they ride.

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  I hated the thought of a minivan... - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By Kim, Lansdale PA - July 5 - 9:20 pm

  I have to tell you that I owned a luxury station wagon before owning this Honda Odyssey. I fought it tooth and nail as I never thought I could be caught dead in a mini van. This car has surpassed any expectation that I have ever wanted! I have not had one problem in over a year, my children LOVE it and I have to say, I do too! This minivan is so much more than a mini van, it fits our very busy life style and I cannot see ever going back to spending BIG bucks on the luxury cars we used to buy to get so little in return. (We use to have a Mercedes wagon-just in case you were wondering) Their new mini van does not come anywhere close to what the Honda can provide. Go out and buy one!

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  the S2k - 2005 Honda S2000
  By spp - July 5 - 1:13 pm

  the car is just balls out fast, fun to drive and great for the summer for the nice day out on the beach

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  Locks and Transmission - 1998 Honda Accord
  By decliningquality? - July 5 - 10:00 am

  My locks have been malfunctioning and I have not been able to resolve the issue. Also my automatic transmission will not always go into gear. Sometimes the button on the shifter will not allow me to push it. I have owned four Hondas and this is the only car I have not been absolutely thrilled with. Of course, this is the first one I purchased new and I paid up for it. Maybe that explains the problems...

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  So Much Fun & RELIABLE - 2003 Honda Element
  By Buckeye Flavor - July 5 - 10:00 am

  The manual is so effortless and produces more power than you would think from the four banger. The interior is great even for a 63" driver-- and for even taller guys in the back. The cars build quality is impeccable-- you can really tell when you go over railroad tracks and you dont feel the rattles or such like other SUVs. Hats off to Honda.

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  My Pilot God - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By LilDebi - July 5 - 10:00 am

  I just traded in my 2002 Odyssey for the Pilot. I was very hesitant with having three kids and needing room to grow. The ride is so smooth and the seats are so comfortable. This suv has great power and "pickup". My kids love the storage and comfort as well. I dont regret my decision at all. After going through four other Hondas, this is definitely the best!

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  Fun & Full of Ideas - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By Colorado Mom - July 5 - 10:00 am

  Tons of storage places. Fun to drive. Corners well. The smooth acceleration is surprisingly good (way better than the RAV4s automatic), yet efficient (RPMs shoot up to give power, then go right back down again to save on fuel). Back is great for big dogs. Child safety seats fit easily, the rear center console gives kids a place for their sippy cups/snacks, and the rear doors have tons of places for coloring books, etc. This car is priced very well for what you get out of it. I am so glad I bought it!