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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  Mostly Accolades for the Accord Coupe - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Happy Honda Owner - May 25 - 8:40 am

  Overall this is a fabulous car. I am very pleased with it and would lease one again. Visibility is an issue with this vehicle. The frame to the left and right of the front windshield is rather wide & it impairs visibility especially when converging upon 4-way stops with cars approaching to left or right at the same speed. They can totally be hidden from view as can pedestrians. Over the shoulder visibility is also somewhat limited and extra time is needed to double- check blind spots.

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  Simply sweet - 2008 Honda Civic
  By John16 - May 25 - 3:03 am

  This is my 8th Honda, and couldnt be happier. I love everything about this car. Looks, gas mileage, reliability, too much to type. If youre thinking of a car that gives you great gas mileage, fun to drive, reliability, this is a must see.

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  Odessey EX - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By Barbara Thomas - May 25 - 1:13 am

  Having an almost serious accident driving my Odessey, my grandson and I had minor injuries in a crash. The van needed $8,0000 to fix.

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  Love at First Sight - 2003 Honda Element
  By rjnvpn - May 24 - 10:00 am

  I had an unexpected encounter with the Honda Element in a parking lot. It was love at first sight. Since the lease on our Honda CRV was due to expire, we decided to purchase the Honda Elemnent. I drive it exclusively, although, I was sure my husband would covet it for the sound system and a possible takeover would ensue. It gets a real "look see" by passers by..........and we owners know were "strange birds"......Otherwise, I love the Honda Element and so do my dogs.

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  the funmobile - 2003 Honda Element
  By g8t pr - May 24 - 10:00 am

  Just enjoying the car a lot. Going up to Sequoia National park Labor day weekend. First camping trip for this SUV. I kayak, and ski and the SUV is perfect for all outdoor fun.

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  Great Car Good Price - 2003 Honda Element
  By Rusty Shackleford - May 24 - 10:00 am

  In my opinion it is the best SUV for the money would recommend to all ages.

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  I love my new car! - 1999 Honda Accord
  By phanieg - May 24 - 10:00 am

  I have owned my car (that I purchased from my father, its original owner)for two weeks. I was lucky in that it was in great condition with only 26400 miles! I love how it handles the road and makes driving fun.

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  A good alternative - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By JM - May 24 - 10:00 am

  The car completely lives up to the quality I have come to expect in a Honda. Two small complaints, 1)the small back window makes the blind spot bigger then average and 2) the handling in the rain is not as stable as I would have liked.

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  MY THIRD ACCORD - 2003 Honda Accord
  By TLCCAR1 - May 24 - 10:00 am

  VERY NICE AUTOMOBILE. HAVE OWNED MANY HONDAS AND THIS IS THE MOST LUXURIOUS AND PLUSHEST OF ALL. IS THAT A GOOD THING? I GUESS SO. I HAVE A 93 EX WAGON THAT I LOVE TO DRIVE BECAUSE IT IS SPORTY AND COMFORTABLE. THIS NEW ACCORD WILL BE RELIABLE BUT IT IS NOT AS FUN TO DRIVE AS MY 93. I DO RECOMMEND THEM THOUGH. BEST CARS ON THE MARKET.

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  I love my honda - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Tooch92 - May 24 - 10:00 am

  I went from driving a 98 civic ex to a 03 accord ex.... what an amazing driving experience! This car is so sleek and stylish. It has made driving fun again.