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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  The lil engines that could - 1995 Honda Civic
  By L. Redden - August 12 - 10:00 am

  I got my Civic Ex 4 door for graduation is 1995. Before that I had a 1991 Civic Lx with over 200k on it. My 95 has 122,000 miles on it currently. As with Honda/Acura, just maitenence and oil changes. I currently have another Honda product, and a Ford SUV(tow Civic to the track). I circuit race the 95 Ex. I have replaced the original drivetrain with one of out a 94 Acura Integra GSR. The car just begs to be driven hard. Feels like a very fast go cart. I pushing about 202 hp at the wheels.

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  FINALLY, Honda got the CRV RIGHT! - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By madeinmilwaukee - August 12 - 10:00 am

  I have always wanted a CRV, but never liked how they looked. They were very boxy and the interior looked very cheap/basic. Now, in the 2002 CRV they mastered perfection. I wouldnt trade my CRV for a Lexus or BMW SUV. I think the CRV is strong competition for the more expensive luxury SUVs. I will drive this car as long as it will allow me. With Hondas reputation, that will be much more than 10 years from now. HONDA BEST INVESTMENT I EVER MADE!

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  Happy move from Lexus to Honda Pilot - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By DeniseP - August 12 - 10:00 am

  I loved the Lexus RX, but needed more room and a lower car payment. I am not a minivan mom and wanted an SUV that drove smooth and looked good, but am turned off by the "truck type rides". I drove the Pilot and loved it. Now, I dont know how I would have even fit my visiting familiy, kids and their friends in another car. Do I miss the luxury of the Lexus? Yes, but not the higher car payment for the smaller SUV that barely seats 5 passengers. And, the kids love the extra seats and the features...lots of cup holders for the thirsty soccer team. Just go get one!

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  AWESOME - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By - August 12 - 10:00 am

  It was one of the best cars i have ever driven

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  Great Vehicle - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By bill sinsabaugh - August 12 - 10:00 am

  This is my 1st Honda. I have had previous SUVs which rode and drove like trucks. This Pilot rides like a big car and has more than enough inside space. I am 62 and so far I think this is the best vehicle I have ever owned

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  Jerrys Redrox Pilot - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Redrox - August 12 - 10:00 am

  I traded in a "00 Town&Country LTD AWD and have never looked back. Although the T&C had more people room it lacked the power to pull my 19 boat. This Pilot is roomy , powerful and very comfortable. The build quality is excellent and a joy to own. GM, Chrysler and Ford can stick their 0% incentives where the sun dont shine. The right choice is a quality vehicle that will have some trade in value when its time to replace it.

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  Great Car - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By Ukemi - August 12 - 3:40 am

  Easily the best SUV I have driven. It is quiet, comfortable, and reliable. 2006 improvements really added to the luxury feel of the cabin and I enjoyed driving this car much more than many "higher end" SUVs on the market. Remarkably, with the 2WDs VCM system, I get extremely good gas mileage approaching 18-19 mpg. For an SUV thats incredible.

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  Great Car for the right person - 2004 Honda S2000
  By shockwave - August 12 - 2:00 am

  Have had the car for 3 weeks. Very fun to drive. Lack of low end torque is a problem. Very quick when revved high. 0- 60 times of under 6 seconds only with good driver and really slamming it through first 2 gears. Extremely quick after 4000 rpm. Seats a bit uncomfortable. Car is stunningly beautiful and will be a classic (perhaps soon last S might be made in 2005). I dont really miss storage because we have a van. Long trips are a no no. Handling is the best in its class. If you like torque and quick starts get a mustang or 350Z.

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  honda s2000 - 2004 Honda S2000
  By s2000 - August 12 - 2:00 am

  I have owned my s2000 for almost 2 years. It is very responsive, quick, easy to drive, fun, and I have no regrets about buying this car. I would definitely recommend one to anyone who wants a REAL sports car!

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  Best Car Ive Owned - 1994 Honda Accord
  By Jabez - August 12 - 2:00 am

  Bought the car with 221k miles on it. Previous owner had done nothing but std maint (tires, brakes, exhaust, tune-up, t-belt). I have put 23k more on it with only brakes and an alignment. Still the original clutch, struts, water pump, etc. with 239k miles...almost unbelievable?! Everything still works on the car (AC, all electric, etc.), and it does not have any rattles (even after a front end accident by previous owner). Doesnt use a drop of oil between changes, and I dont drive this car very easy. By far the best car I have owned, with my Maxima being very close behind. Get a well maintained used one, and dont be afraid of high miles