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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  Love my Element - 2005 Honda Element
  By Pat Dunham - October 14 - 8:06 pm

  Driving the Element is the most fun I have ever had driving a vehicle. The gas mileage is great; about 22mpg city and 26mpg highway. The sound system is great and caring for the interior is a breeze! Love my Element!!

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  Lives up to Honda reputation - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By fred - October 14 - 7:13 pm

  Bought the Honda in early October and Ihave already driven it 1800 miles on a recent trip without any problems. The car drives very smoothly and the wind noise is minimal. The pick up is decent for a 4000 pound car. I seriously considered the Sienna, but so far have no regrets.

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  Perfect Choice for a family on the go - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By DM00 - October 14 - 6:53 pm

  Let me begin by saying I have never had any hangups about driving/owning a mini- van. My parents always drove a full size conversion van when we were young and then moved on to mini-vans when they came out in the 80s. I agonized over which van to buy, looked long and hard at the Dodge/Chrysler van, the Hyundai Entourage (way nicer than expected), the Quest and the Sienna. I could not be happier with the final choice. It really does drive like a full sized sedan. In some aspects it is better, you dont have the low visibilty over the hood that you do in a sedan and the driving position is high enough to see the road regardless of the height of the driver.

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  This van rocks! - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By thockman - October 14 - 3:10 am

  Ive owned the previous two Odyssey styles (95 and 2003), and this is by far an improvement in every way. The driving and handling is so superior to previous minivans that I dont feel like Im driving a van at all. I love the improved seating comfort, better stereo, sunroof, and triple zone climate control. I have had no build defects yet. Mileage is 22 to 26 after 2900 miles.

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  1993 Accord is my Best Friend - 1993 Honda Accord
  By SteveG325 - October 14 - 2:00 am

  This is the most wonderful car ever made. It has been totally reliable, saves you a ton on gas and insurance, and is very zippy and fun to drive- especially in a 5 speed. I have had mine for 11 years, and it has never let me down. When Im ready to reitre it and get a new car, I plan to put it into storage for the next 40 years untill its considered a classic. Thats how much I love this car. No Joke.

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  Excellent Blend/Cross-over vehicle - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By B241 - October 13 - 6:50 pm

  Whether you are researching the purchase of a truck,SUV, or a moderate luxury sedan-compare this vehicle-Then ask yourself "how do I use my vehicle?" I believe that Honda truely hit a huge niche with this model. It is not for everyone-dont expect to haul a loaded four horse trailer or pull down a house like an F-350. Nor should you expect to bust through mud or sand dunes like a Tacoma TRD or Grand Cheerokee. Those who are considering this model who have previously owned SUVs will most likely enjoy the additional cargo/storage space. Ever notice that SUVs keep getting larger, but the cargo space keeps getting smaller? The ride is better than any SUV or truck that I have driven.

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  Perfect college SUV - 2003 Honda Element
  By aziangrlie2000 - October 13 - 10:00 am

  The Element was the best SUV I ever test drove. Thats why my parents ended up buying it for me for my birthday. I love getting looks from passers by. Expecially from all the hot guys :)

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  Fun SUV - 2003 Honda Element
  By dzmaddog - October 13 - 10:00 am

  In general, this is a very functional SVU. Very unique design of the doors and tailgate. For a 4-cyl engine, its got plenty power. It also has a responsive transmission. Real-time 4WD is also a plus on top of the 4-wheel disc ABS system.

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  Most fun car I have ever owned. - 2003 Honda Element
  By Erika L. Miller - October 13 - 10:00 am

  We were picking up our New Honda Odyssey Van when I noticed the Element on the same showfloor it was all opened up and I fell in love with it right off. It is such a fun car, practical and comfortable, inside and out. We bought it in Ames, Iowa at the Honda of Ames Dealership were we have bought all of our cars for many years, we like the reliability of Honda cars and the great design features and love the person that sells them to us. I think perhabst the Element was designed with young people in mind, and it works, I feel years younger when I drive it, and Im a 63 year old grandmother.

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  I LOVE MY ELEMENT - 2003 Honda Element
  By Godmother4577 - October 13 - 10:00 am

  The Honda elemnt is terrific! I love the new look & the it is so roomy! It is a pleasure to drive.