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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  A winner for Honda - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Hilbilly - May 15 - 10:00 am

  Just took delivery 2 weeks ago and have already put 700 miles on our new Odyssey. We Also drive a Corvette and a Cadillac Escalade so were used to power and luxury, but this car/van is extremely practical and remarkably usefull. Were impressed with build quality and ride although this is clearly not a luxury car. After struggling to get 16 MPG we love the 25 MPG with this one. Whats notable is the way it feels on the highway. At speeds of 70 plus its very stable and one feels like its not going that fast.

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  We love our Odyssey! - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Mrs.&Mr.T. - May 15 - 10:00 am

  The Honda Odyssey lives up to its well deserved ratings. Handling is excellent.Very responsive, and love the european road feel.Gas mileage is acceptable.The Odysseys ride is noticebly smooth. The fit and finish is superb.Interior room is well thought out, and feels almost spacious.With third seat folded down, ample room for almost anything a family of four would need to take on vacation.The entertainment package is teriffic for the kids,leaves mom & dad in peace on long trips.

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  Flawed Honda Pilot - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By Ken Ames - May 15 - 10:00 am

  Poor people engineering and finish. The dash board has rattled since the day I drove it home. Two attempts to correct it failed. The console is loose. I was told that it was "poor design by Honda". The first time that I tried to pull one of the second row seats forward the release bar came off in my hand. Driving with the front windows down is impossible because of the sound created. Space and time do not allow for all of the inattention to common sense detailing. I previoulsy owned a Ford Explorer for 8 years and 176,000 miles that was much smarter.

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  7/24/04 Purchase - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By sl49 - May 15 - 10:00 am

  Moving up from a 1993 minivan. Big improvement. Very car-like ride for its size. Excellent handling, very good driving position. Headlights do a superior job illuminating the road. AC cools very rapidly & rear unit can be controlled from 2nd row if desired. Radio/CD player is fine to these non- audiophile ears. Center console has tons of storage. Lots of room w/ 3rd row seats folded down. Early evaluation is very positive.

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  Exellent - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By Ana Barrios - May 15 - 10:00 am

  the gas tank is a bit short so, one has to go to the gas station often. I would love to see a hybrid version.

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  Best Car I have Driven - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Lee Ovian - May 15 - 10:00 am

  I am in sales and was in need of dependable and reliable vehicle that had navigation. I am die-hard Chevy fan and hard a time separating my feelings for another GM product. After several weeks of contemplating what car buy, I decided on the Accord. The Navigation system was far superior to Onstar and other competitors such as Nissan. I have owned this car one week and I am truly impressed with my purchase. I would recommend this car in a heartbeat. Just two weeks ago I was reading others testimonials and based on the positive feedback made the decision to buy the Accord and you should to.

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  damn nice car at low ass cost - 2004 Honda Accord
  By ilovemyhonda - May 15 - 10:00 am

  this is the only car under 30,000 to get 3.0 liter and 240 hp with full option. this is much more roomier than 350z and g35 for the driver and passengers. honda is known for its excellence at low costs and i never regret getting this car for even one second.

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  cant go wrong - 2004 Honda Accord
  By hondaowner22 - May 15 - 10:00 am

  I have had this car a little over a year and love it. No problems, no glitches, no repairs. Drives well, great mileage. The 4 cyl is all you need unless you are a hot-rodder. I did put a seat cushion in the drivers seat - could use more thigh support. Everything works and works well!!

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  cant go wrong - 2004 Honda Accord
  By hondaown2233 - May 15 - 10:00 am

  I have had this car a little over a year and love it. No problems, no glitches, no repairs. Drives well, great mileage. The 4 cyl is all you need unless you are a hot-rodder. I did put a seat cushion in the drivers seat - could use more thigh support. Everything works and works well!!

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  The New 2006 Civic Coupe EX Rocks! - 2006 Honda Civic
  By socalisa - May 15 - 7:13 am

  I traded in a gas guzzling Nissan Xterra for the more fuel efficient Civic. The car handles superbly, has incredible acceleration for a 4 cyl. engine, and looks exceptionally sporty, to boot. The interior is comfortable and roomy and has the feel of a much pricier car. While Ive yet to get that 40 MPG freeway (I drive 80 MPH on average), I am getting approx. 34 miles/gallon. Beats the 14 I was getting out of the Xterra. The only problem Ive had with the car was a blown fuse that controlled the dome, map, and trunk lights, but that was easily repaired. I highly recommend this car!