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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  excellent - 1995 Honda Civic
  By chris slater - March 15 - 2:00 am

  well it is a nice car

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  MY MINI HUMMER - 2004 Honda Element
  By KANSASCOTTIE - March 14 - 10:40 pm

  I love my Element. Its unusual body style is unique and I dont see 3 on every block. The ride is smooth and it is not too noisy on the highway. I love the scratchproof fenders, the rubber floormats and the stain proof seats. The motor does not lag at all when I use the AC I also love the way the back doors open. It is so easy to load and unload with them. The CD player has a killer sound. The truck also is just the right height to enter. You dont have to have a running board to get into it.

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  Reasonably good car with some issues - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Steve - March 14 - 9:43 pm

  Pluses: Great visibility, good braking. Very good handling Negatives: Poor wipers, high level of road noise, dashboard controls are not intuitive, heating is inconsistent, windshield almost always fogs which makes it necessary to leave defroster on. Acceleration with the four cylinder is not good. Sound is only mediocre. Gas mileage is only 20 around town and 26 to 27 on the highway with a four!

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  Honda Pilot Review - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By mjcvmd - March 14 - 10:00 am

  I use this car in my equine vet practice, carrying a good load all day long. Its been great and I would recommend it to anyone. I drive quite a bit all over the east and am very happy with this vehicle.

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  Almost perfect. - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By jrt - March 14 - 10:00 am

  Researched many small SUVs and chose the EX above all others. Outstanding performance, fit & finish and well thought out interior...with two small exceptions. The drivers arm rest needs to be larger to make it useful and Id like to see automatic headlight shutoff and daytime running lights made standard on the EX (and would gladly pay extra for the option). Even if the dealer has a CRV on the floor that sports 17" rims (an option) do not buy them. The only tires you can get are low riders...which limit your winter driving options.

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  Great Family Vehicle - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By JLSTFA - March 14 - 10:00 am

  Our 2003 Odyssey EX-L RES has thus far been exactly what we expected in all aspects. It spacious, quiet, handles great, and is packed with the features we desire. The Honda reputation for quality, which we have come to expect, shines through in this vehicle. Over the years we have owned 5 Hondas, including this minivan, and we continue to be fans of Honda vehicles. Plus: The kids love the DVD system.

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  Overall winner - Odyssey - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By Melissa Mcvay - March 14 - 10:00 am

  After weeks of test driving mini-vans, the choice was clear. The Honda Odyssey was the best hands down. I cant truly say that there was even a close second. The Odyssey won us over with its sleek styling and top rated performance. Byh far, It was the most luxurious, comfortable van in the field.

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  I love My Accord - 2000 Honda Accord
  By rarva_12 - March 14 - 10:00 am

  Well the vehicle has been outstanding until the recall was issued for the transmission. Ive had problems with the dealership.

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  HONDA CIVIC - 2003 Honda Civic
  By LISATFJ - March 14 - 10:00 am

  EXCELLENT GAS MILEAGE, GOOD HANDLING, IM A HONDA CUSTOMER FOR LIFE. EVEN MY DAD WHO HAS NEVER OWNED ANYTHING OTHER THAN A CHEVY LOVES MY CIVIC!

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  hondaaaaas - 2003 Honda Civic
  By sweetmolissa - March 14 - 10:00 am

  great car...fun to drive. I only wish it was a little easier to people to get in and out of the back seat