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 it! - 2016 Honda Accord
  By Kenny Benne - June 27 - 5:46 pm

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  Continued Reliability - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Dan from Michigan - June 27 - 10:00 am

  We recently traded our 2001 Odyssey for the new 2004 version. Although outwardly, not much appeared to have changed, much did change. Stronger more powerful engine, more comfort and toys (DVD, wireless headphones, etc). Ride and quietness are also improved. We had nearly 4 years of trouble free service from our last Ody and expect nothing less from this one. So far we have not been disappointed. It was delivered with no problems in quality, fit or finish.

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  Tahas pilot - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By Taha Hameduddin - June 27 - 10:00 am

  It is a really fun car...its really spacious and really fun to drive... the 4WD works excellent

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  Smaller is Bigger - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By brainjerk - June 27 - 10:00 am

  Compared to mywifes bigger Ford Expedition, it carries more, drives better, and utilizes so many interior spaces that it stores easily 12 times more parafanalia like tools, 8 phone books, jumper cables, than the Ford. Quiet, responsive, reliable, and safe.

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  Good - 2004 Honda Civic
  By lownfst - June 27 - 10:00 am

  The Honda Civic is a great vehicle to own. It has great handling, performance and comfort. Although, it could use a little more horsepower.

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  Great first car! - 2004 Honda Civic
  By The civic club - June 27 - 10:00 am

  What other car out there today can give you a lot for not a lot of money....? Oh, and will last 200,000 miles.... :)

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  LOVE MY HONDAS - 2004 Honda Accord
  By TTT - June 27 - 10:00 am

  Just cant beat them! In any way possible! They hug you, they hold you, and they wont let you down! When its time to re-lease, its sad. i dont want to give mine up!!!!!!!! Love You Hondas !!!!!!!!!!!

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  Never regret to buy this wild horse. - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Tsung-Li James Lin - June 27 - 10:00 am

  Never regret at all, and it has saved my life from emergency situation many time. When you need the horses, they are there. When you need to stop, it stops. When you need the comfort, it never disappoint. So, what other cars should I get beside this one. I really love it.

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  I Love This Car - 2004 Honda Accord
  By firefly - June 27 - 10:00 am

  My goal was to find a good priced sports coupe that would accommodate a family of five. The Accord EX-V6 has met all of my needs. The power is unbelievable and my wife loves to drive the car (when she gets to opportunity). A man cant ask for much more. Thanks Honda.

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  Honda Civic EX-L Auto w/ Navi - 2008 Honda Civic
  By Adam - June 27 - 7:23 am

  This is a great car. I am 17 and bought my first car. The two tier dashboard is convenient and the navigation is relatively good. The trunk size is generous given its coupe body structure. Of course the main point is the mpg rating. Even before having broken it in I get a combined 41 mpg (with A/C on the entire time), even though I do a little more highway than city. In addition the seats are comfortable in the back and in the front, even for me (Im 511"). I love the styling, and the air conditioning is good. I even got cold in like 91 degree weather. I shall also admit the windshield wipers to be cool. I havent found anything bad about this car yet so if anyone does I would like to know.