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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  Honda Element - 2003 Honda Element
  By Cheryl Couture - February 5 - 10:00 am

  I am a 40 year old with 2 teenage age boys. My husband loves my new car so much I barely get to drive it on the weekends when hes not working! Its great for bikes, groceries, the dog, camping, hauling MX gear to the laudromat. We love it! The seats in the back flip up and down easily. The interior can handle sand from the beach and dirt form the MX track. The sunroof is great too. We have the side steps, the rear spoiler, rack on top and fog lights. The extras really make the difference.

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  civic si - 2000 Honda Civic
  By pimpkwene - February 5 - 10:00 am

  extremely respectable manufacturer. extremely respectable car.

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  We Love It!!! - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By ralaine - February 5 - 10:00 am

  We have had our Pilot for four days....I love driving it. It handles so well and is quiet inside. We entered the dealership determined to get the EX Model with cloth seats....once my husband and kids saw the Leather and DVD Player all plans were thrown aside (along with my hope of a reasonable monthly payment! :) We did get a great deal on our trade-in as well as the purchase price. The dealership was very patient with us and was very low-pressure.... I would highly recommend Tracy Honda, see Hal!

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  Awesome Vehicle - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By stevelaura33 - February 5 - 10:00 am

  The Pilot is an awesome vehicle. The ride is smooth and the vehicle is quick. It is very roomy inside, much more roominess than Explorers/Mountaineers. I highly recommend purchasing the cargo tray as an acessory. Its great to provide extra protection for the cargo area when hauling or taking stuff. I have already filled the cargo area with 40 lbs bags of topsoil, so I know the usefulness of cargo tray. I really believe that this car is a steal at 28, 29k for the Ex model. We looked at the highlander, which was smaller, more expensive and you got less for your money. I would have paid 34k for a vehicle like this.

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  7 months of Pilot - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Steven H. - February 5 - 10:00 am

  Great pick-up; nice handling; comfortable for driver and passengers.Holds nicely in snow. Needs auto opening, lighted cruise bottons steering wheel radio controls.

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  Hybrid - 2003 Honda Civic
  By List Family - February 5 - 10:00 am

  The performance and fuel economy on this car make it a commuters dream come true. It has all the important features the gasoline-only models have, but allows 500 to 600 miles between fill ups. So, you can drive to your hearts content, and feel good knowing that youre not causing a major negative impact on the environment. And, it has the same auto body as the traditional honda -- nice. The digital design of the cockpit is so much fun to watch that you might need to remind yourself to watch the road. This is both a reliable, environmentally concious car and a fun drive.

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  Near Perfection - 2003 Honda Accord
  By JMOS - February 5 - 10:00 am

  Truly one of the best, most well appointed vehicles I have ever owned. THis car has it all. Power, style, luxury and is a dream on the road. THe suspension and engine are a perfect setup especially with teh 5sp Auto. The balance and ride is superb and all the creature comforts of a much more expensive vehicle. The interior is absolutely beatiful and extremely functional. THis car is near perfect.

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  Too many rattles - 2003 Honda Accord
  By ricksaccord - February 5 - 10:00 am

  This car has great features and for the money it cant be beat. I seriously considered the G35 but the interior quality and features for the money were far superior in the Honda. Gas mileage has been surprisingly good for the amount of power.Interior quality is very good (no hard plastic) but numerous rattles are dissappointing to see in a Honda.

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  great car - 2003 Honda Accord
  By 1stnewhonda - February 5 - 10:00 am

  Ive had the car for a little over a week and ive already put close to 700 miles on it. Great handling/performance, very comfortable, everyone loves the new look. feels like im driving an upscale German coupe, i wouldnt change a thing

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  Outstanding SUV - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By MCB3 - February 5 - 4:30 am

  This is a great SUV. Really roomy, comfortable and the interior setup is intiutive and well-placed. If youve got at least one child, theres more then enough room for strollers, carseats and plenty of luggage. The Pilot is a dream on long trips, and my wife can relax watching movies in the back seat with our son.