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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  Well Worth The Money - 2004 Honda Civic
  By Satchmo724 - February 26 - 10:00 am

  I just purchased this car a week after it was made, and I must say, Im normally a chevy guy, but Im highly ipressed with the Civic. Friend of mine had one and let me drive it, i couldnt believe the way this car moves for only having a 4-cylinder! I was reluctant at first, but after test driving it and dealing with the friendly salesman, I was quite happy with my purchase. They met every demand I had for purchasing the car ($100 over invoice, dashmat, oil changes etc.) Highly recommend for younger drivers, myself being a college student. The automatic transmission is convenient, but saps the power and "fun to drive" factor.

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  totally awesome car - 2004 Honda Accord
  By resengl - February 26 - 10:00 am

  Awesome car! The Accord is a very well built, solid car and its a joy to drive. Its roomy, comfortable and FAST. It is so quiet that the car seems to float on air - you see is moving, but you can not hear it. Plenty of features and easy to use instrament stack. The Navi system is worth the extra money and is extremely useful. The XM radio is great addition. The only glitch is that the front slope on the hood seems to get chipped easily.

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  Great Buy - 2005 Honda Accord
  By mj06iu - February 26 - 9:16 am

  This is my third Honda Accord and they keep getting better. Fun but practical, and low cost to own.

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  Havent had a Honda in Years - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Car Nut - February 26 - 9:06 am

  I am a self confessed car junkie. Have wasted many thousands trading cars too often. Have had new Acura RL, Acura TL, MBZ E55, BMW M3, Chrysler 300 SRT8, Infiniti M45 and most recently a BMW 550 w/sport pkg. I just got my Accord a few days ago and I honestly have to say it is an excellent car. Great fit and finish, tons of bells and whistles and its a great value for the money.

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  Refined I4 - 2005 Honda Accord
  By jr - February 26 - 3:50 am

  The I4 engine is smooth and quiet and the automatic transmission shifts smoothly. The interior design is top notch. The cd player is surprisingly good. There is lots of interior storage. The cloth interior is one of the best ones Ive ever seen. The wheels are very nice looking. The EPA gas mileage ratings are pretty low this car is capable of 38 MPG on the highway and upper 20s around town. For the price its a really good value.

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  Original owner - 1994 Honda Accord
  By Mercer wagon - February 26 - 2:00 am

  After 150,000 miles, still no major service items or irksome small repairs. Standard transmission makes a real difference in reliability and drivability. Still on first clutch, but its time. No squeaks, no runs, no drips, no errors. lucky me?

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  1999 Honda Civic EX 2 Door Coupe - 1999 Honda Civic
  By Brad_44647 - February 26 - 2:00 am

  Its a very high quality car and well worth paying a pretty penny for.If you like going fast Id suggest you buy one of these cars,and plus you look good even when your just driving it.

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  Never looked back - 2001 Honda CR-V
  By luvvit - February 26 - 2:00 am

  Get this as a fun, practical car that would last a long time. It has exceeded expectations, plus holds its value like nobodys business. Engine is just adequate at 150 hp but thats part of the package.

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  Wonderful Van - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By DSJR - February 26 - 2:00 am

  After looking at all of the minivans on the market it was obvious Honda did their homework. Excellent quailty, power and comfort. When you consider the amazing resale value, there is no way to go wrong.

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  Another Great Accord - 2005 Honda Accord
  By left1 - February 26 - 1:33 am

  We purchased our Accord at the end of May. This is our third Accord. We traded an 04 Acura TL (a big disappointment) for the V6 EX. The Accord continues to be a great car. It is no wonder that it continues to win awards year after year. We have 5000 miles on it and have only had one issue with the glove box not being tight (rattle). The acceleration is almost as quick as the TL without the TLs torque. The car is much quiter and smoother than the TL. Unless your primary concerns is looks, "toys" and prestige you get a much better car for less money with the Accord