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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  Fun Compact Recreational Vehicle - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By Archie Corona - October 7 - 2:00 am

  Ive never driven an SUV before thats easy to park. The turning radius is so tight that I can flip a huey in an instant. The intrument panel is easy to read along with the newly designed knobs for the air and heater.

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  Not worth the money, but great idea - 2003 Honda Civic
  By aknight53 - October 7 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car thinking I could save a bit of money with its great fuel economy. However, I found out later that every 10,000 miles it needs a $100.00 mainenance fee with an expensive oil change in between. Gone are my hypothetical savings. Not worth what I expected to get out of it.

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  Exellent Car - 2004 Honda Civic
  By Jessica Munoz - October 7 - 2:00 am

  It is one of the best cars that I have ever owned.

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  False Advertising - 2004 Honda Civic
  By JScottS - October 7 - 2:00 am

  Where is the performance?! This is not the car I thought I was buying. Why did Europe get the Type R model? For all you people thinking that you got a great car go online and see the car Europe got. You will think twice about buying the Si. At highway speeds the transmission whines like a spoiled child. I keep reaching for another gear that does not exist. The ride is very rough. This is not a comfortable car for driving any kind of distance. Lousy fuel economy compared to the standard civic. The silver coating on the center console is cheap and easily scratches.

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  best honda ever - 2004 Honda Accord
  By crownncola - October 7 - 2:00 am

  This is my 5th Honda.... It is by far the best Honda ever, as well as the selling dealer has been nothing less the professional. If you are considering a car, think about nothing else than a Honda

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  aproaching perfect - 1998 Honda Civic
  By chris newton - October 6 - 4:06 pm

  !996 4 door ex model with 130000 miles and absolutley zero problems. Never have had a problem with my civic. And 38mpg at about 80mph plus what more can you ask for. Have owned Ford, Chevy, Nissan, Geo and the Honda is the absolute best car I have had.

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  I actually love it... - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By Reluctant Convert - October 6 - 1:50 pm

  I was a truly reluctant minivan buyer. I was never going to be one of those parents driving these vehicles. Honestly, once I decided to explore the possibility, the Honda blew away my expectations. Like most others, I considered the Sienna for its AWD feature, but it never stacked up to the Honda despite that advantage. I listed many improvements that could be made to the vehicle, but none would deter me from buying again. The endless feature list is to voluminous to detail. The 255 HP engine is a joy. Smooth and powerful with virtually unnoticeable gear shifting. I hate to admit but I am a convert.

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  VG Overall/a Few Annoying Deficiencies - 2002 Honda Odyssey
  By shuttsmeup - October 6 - 10:00 am

  Drivetrain seems tight, adequate power, gas mileage vg for this size vehicle. Holds resale value better than other vans. Handles very well for a van. Seems to be a very reliable product - I currently have 18,000 miles on it, with no significant defects.

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  Accord EX V6 Coupe - 1999 Honda Accord
  By Gayblaze - October 6 - 10:00 am

  Car is a value, but Honda sure earns it back in costs for routine service! Two glitches that should not have happened - seat adjuster died (under warranty), cruise control light died (just after warranty). Latter cost nearly $200 to fix!

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  I love my Civic - 2001 Honda Civic
  By Aimee Lyn - October 6 - 10:00 am

  When I was going to buy a new car I asked all of my friends what I should buy most people said if you want a reliable car that will last buy a Honda. I couldnt have gotten better advice. At first I had my heart set on the 2001 Saturn SC2 but after driving the Saturn and then driving the Civic I was sold, the Civic ride was much more smoother than the Saturn and the price was much more reasonable, I couldnt see paying more for a bumpier ride so of course I bought the Civic. I love my 2001 Honda Civic Ex Coupe. I havent had any problems except for the tire getting a hole it it from a nail. (opps my bad)!