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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  OUTSTANDING MINI VAN - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By ROBERT HODGSON - July 5 - 10:00 am

  I HAVE RESEACHED THIS VEHICAL FOR TWO YEARS AND FOUND THERE WAS NO OTHER MINI VAN THAT WOULD EVER COME CLOSE TO IT.THIS VEHICLE PUTS ALL OTHER MINI VANS TO SHAME.THE HANDLING IS UNREAL FOR A FULL SIZE VAN,GAS MILEAGE IS VERY GOOD,AND FOR THE COMFORT,VERY GOOD.

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  odyssey--no other van - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By cdowney - July 5 - 10:00 am

  I do not know how anyone could consider any van other than a Honda Odyssey. It is the most wonderful van made.

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  The Car that sells its self - 2001 Honda Accord
  By Blue Rider - July 5 - 10:00 am

  This honda like the others I have had before has treated very well. For the countless of different driving conditions that I encountered it has never failed not once. I only wish I had the time to baby this car as much as it babys me with its dependability. I only wish it had a stronger/faster engine.

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  simply amazing - 2003 Honda Civic
  By Pacobird - July 5 - 10:00 am

  What a great car, you dont sacrafice anything only gain. I get 49.5 miles to the gallon highway and 42.3 city.

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  Great Car! - 2003 Honda Civic
  By dwigin - July 5 - 10:00 am

  Could not ask for more. Gets great gas mileage, very smooth, great price, no problems.

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  civic - 2003 Honda Civic
  By cdowney - July 5 - 10:00 am

  great car for the money, dependable, great gas mileage...wonderful

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  2003 Civic EX - 2003 Honda Civic
  By Luhrs - July 5 - 10:00 am

  Very smooth transmission, roomy ride, great gas mileage.

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  Snow and Cold no problem - 2003 Honda Civic
  By jeffme - July 5 - 10:00 am

  Fantastic fuel economy even with winter treads and subzero temperatures (44-48 mpg winter / 46-55 mpg summer). No problem with battery pack or vehicle starting on several winter mornings with temperature at -30 deg F. Handles hilly, snow covered dirt road driving very well and is easy to control in slippery conditions. A very substantial, fun and sensible car to drive!!!

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  excellent car - 2003 Honda Accord
  By atlantadriver - July 5 - 10:00 am

  Excellent car all around. Interior design cannot be beat, you must see it and experience it. Good handling, great acceleration, relatively quiet, well built. You will not be sorry, but compare it first with Camry V6, Passat, and Maxima.

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  Sweet Ride - 2003 Honda Accord
  By BobbyQ - July 5 - 10:00 am

  If you plan on getting the accord sedan or coupe, you HAVE to have the V6!!Its so much fun to drive, it handles like its an extension of your consciousness. Wow!