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:

• 

  Why should I buy a new one? - 1993 Honda Accord
  By knoxtenor - February 21 - 2:00 am

  The 93 EX Coupe (6 cyl manual 5 spd) was the closest thing to a new car Ive ever owned. It was also by far the hottest, coolest car Ive ever owned. I bought it in 95 w/ about 28K miles, it, and at 146K, its still so amazingly reliable and fuel-effecient that I cant bear parting with it just because I want something modern and stylish with less wear-and-tear.

• 

  The best vehicle I have ever owned!!! - 2000 Honda Odyssey
  By ohioangels - February 21 - 2:00 am

  This is the easiest van to drive! The vision is excellant, with little "blind" spots, if any. I put major miles on every year, and my I will never own another brand then Honda. Comfortable, reliable, easy to handle and to manover ... Honda has cornered the market!

• 

  An outstanding value - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Bob - February 20 - 5:53 pm

  If you are looking for a car with great fuel economy, outstanding handling, looks sporty, and is a lot of fun to drive, you cannot beat the Honda Civic Coupe EX ...especially with 5 Speed manual transmission.

• 

  Great little suv - 2006 Honda CR-V
  By h los - February 20 - 5:10 pm

  Presently I have over 150k miles, I have had very little issues with this car. Replace the sensor, bulbs, and breaks thats it. It is a highly reliable car.

• 

  Great little suv - 2006 Honda CR-V
  By h los - February 20 - 5:10 pm

  Presently I have over 150k miles, I have had very little issues with this car. Replace the sensor, bulbs, and breaks thats it. It is a highly reliable car.

• 

  Smooth Drive - 2007 Honda Pilot
  By Sheepless - February 20 - 4:36 pm

  Since I first test drove this SUV in 2004 and now in 2006, what a difference! The interior is roomy and set up for everyones comfort. I am tall and its just perfect for all size people. I bought the 2007 model.

• 

  American junk should be embarrased - 1992 Honda Civic
  By revan04 - February 20 - 2:00 am

  Bought this car at a city acution. Car had body damage and needed substantial work. Since it is only a DX, had the head cleaned up and the intake side ported -Straight piped the exhaust system (no cats)..she dont tell the cops. -Added a cold air intake -Tuner style muffler -Short shifter For around $1500 done and complete I got a very nice ride. Put 20,000 before selling it. Only experienced rust induced troubles (brakes rusted, suspension bushings...) Peppy little car Mine did a 1/4 mile in 17.2 and 0-60 in about 9.9 seconds, not bad for 4 door with 102 hp.

• 

  A Humming Bird with Wheels - 2000 Honda S2000
  By Robbie C - February 20 - 2:00 am

  The car is great. Its fast. Its simple. Its reliable. The more I drive it, the more I appreciate it, and the more I admire Honda for building such well thought-out products. A well cared for used S2000 is a great car.

• 

  Prelude S and SH - 2000 Honda Prelude
  By JAY PATEL - February 20 - 2:00 am

  Ive owned 3 2001 Preludes... Fast cars, powerful vtec, and great styling. I LOVE THIS CAR!

• 

  Accords Are The Best - 1991 Honda Accord
  By Honda Rules - February 20 - 2:00 am

  i own a 1991 honda accord. i feel that these accords are by far the most reliable cars on the face of the planet. down to the car...these accords arent the smoothest shifting cars in the world with the automatic tranny...but the engines are second to none. honda has always had what it takes do dominate the 4-cyl scene. the only complaint i have about my accord is the fact that my door handle trim breaks to easy as i have been through 6. anyone who wants to have a inexpensive reliable safe (****driver/*****Passenger) car the accord is the one to get.