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 Compact car for a reason - 2004 Honda Civic
  By BK2259 - April 5 - 10:00 am

  I purchased my car from Tempe Honda, In Arizona and and was extremely pleased, it was no pressure, and my salesman Brian could not have been more helpful. I looked at the other cars on the market and the Civic was by far the best. It had the best safety, best fuel economy, and best looks, although that last one is a bit subjective. I purchased one of the first of the redesigned 04 civics. I have had no problems, and because this is not my first honda, I do not expect any. Overall, like the title says, it is the best compact car for a reason.

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  reliable, quiet and good value - 2003 Honda Accord
  By patsfan - April 5 - 10:00 am

  an excellent value. car is quieter than previous models. excellent reliability. No tune up until 110,000 miles!

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  I really like this car. - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Bubus - April 5 - 10:00 am

  Coming from 1991 Civic LX fuul version,153K. This car is powerful (Honda,are you guys sure its a 4 cyl?), confortable,fun to drive, good sound system (CD player+ 2 speakers, good AC (Texas here), classy looks. Only think Im a little bit dissapointed is about some rattling/cracking noises in the sunvisors area.(on bumpy roads) It seems that the padding there is a bit loosen.Dealer promised to fix it on its first service.(3750 Miles)

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  Honda is the Best - 2004 Honda Accord
  By link - April 5 - 10:00 am

  Honda is the number one import in my opinion, especially now that I have purchased the latest model Accord. I have now learned why they have been labeled the number one import vehicle.

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  Honda Accord LX - 2004 Honda Accord
  By C-130Driver - April 5 - 10:00 am

  Great car, the styling and ergonomics are good. I like the availability of a 5 speed manual trans. The day I bought the car I took it on a 700 mile road trip and got 37 miles per gallon. Not bad for a fullsize car. The car is quiet and handles great. Just what Id expect from a Honda.

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  Great car - 2006 Honda Accord
  By jeffincolo - April 4 - 2:50 am

  I just finished my first tank of gas in this car. It lasted 2.5 weeks and I got just over 30mpg with mixed driving. This car has nice power and drives smooth as silk at all speeds up to 85 (fastest I have driven it to date). The automatic transmission shifts smoothly and evenly during acceleration. The engine purs at 2500RPM at 75mph. The graphite pearl looks great on the vehicle. Also the LED tail lights look great. Interior is roomy and looks nice. Especially like the conveniant CD compartment under the radio. I would recommend this car to anyone looking for fuel economy as well as nice performance (handling and power).

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  no comparisons... - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By ED - April 4 - 1:33 am

  We decided bought a honda odyssey after several search,and were very happy with our decision. From the friendly navigation system to the PAX tires this minivan cover all our expectacions.

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  great car - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By jay - April 3 - 4:13 pm

  great car....everything feels and fits great....had three ford suvs before the pilot....the pilot excels over the ford product.....drives like a far more expensive car

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  My Pilot - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Mike Colville - April 3 - 12:26 pm

  Traded a Ford Expedition for the Pilot. Ride is better, comfort about the same.Gas mileage has averaged about 18.5 in combined city and hiway.

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  Amazing car - 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour
  By DanR - April 3 - 10:00 am

  You have to drive this car to appreciate the great job of Honda! Wish they had push start and back up camera without navigation!