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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  will never buy a Honda again - 1998 Honda Accord
  By heatherismad - January 31 - 10:00 am

  I have had more problems with this car than any I have ever had. I have already had to get a new transmission and now the EGR valve is clogged. Its one thing after the other. I should have gone Toyota!

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  Best Car Ever! - 1998 Honda Accord
  By rdimler - January 31 - 10:00 am

  This is my second Honda Accord and I will probably always drive one. It is the most economical, dependable and attractive car Ive ever driven. The body is sleek and it handles very well. This car runs forever and is so economical on gas. Accessories are so varied, creative and cool it makes it easy to dress it up.

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  Great car - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By Tom Kayaker - January 31 - 10:00 am

  Two weeks after purchace, drove to Canada from So Cal. We averaged 26 miles/gal for the whole trip, with air- conditioning running, freeway, city, mountain and off road. This car never skipped a beat and kept us very comfortable. While there is plenty of leg room in the rear seat area, my 61" body wold like the front seat to slide back about one more click. It isnt bad but that would be nice. It has plenty of power to handle every situation and a very large cargo area with or without the rear seats folded down. We are campers, Kayakers and white water rafters so space is very important to us.

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  I love my crv - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By Global Girl - January 31 - 10:00 am

  The CR-V is not a car I would have walked onto a lot and chose myself. I got my CR-V as a Christmas gift and I couldnt be happier with what was chosen for me. With 2 young kids and a lot of traveling, this is the perfect size car for us. It has enough room to haul everything, but designed so well that it doesnt feel like I am driving a huge truck.

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  Honda CRV AWD - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By Jack Russel - January 31 - 10:00 am

  Having had this car for a year now, I probably would have purchased another vehicle due to just one thing and that is how uncomfortable/noisy this car rides and handles. Everything else is fine, especially the styling and quality. If I drive this vehicle for more than an hour I am ready for a break. Dont take your eyes off of the road for a milisecond while driving because this vehicle will wander away quicker than I have ever seen another vehicle do.

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  buy honda forever - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By jeff davis - January 31 - 10:00 am

  the best all around vehicle I have owned to date.

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  very good, but could be better - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By runswithsizzers - January 31 - 10:00 am

  Too soon to tell about durability, but I have Great Expectations. Overall, Im very happy, but there are a few ergonomic glitches that need work. The dash mount shift lever is too easily confused with the wiper lever, steering wheel is too stiff and heavy for one-hand steering, and the OEM tires are very poorly rated at tire racks website. ABS not avail on LX.

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  Honda Owner for life - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By Ed Cralle, Jr. - January 31 - 10:00 am

  Much more room inside than expected by looking @ the exterior. Smooth riding SUV, many safety features. Liquid filled motor mounts, crumple zones, Air bags, Senors for when a child is in the front seat that will cancel deployment of bag. More H/P than previous models. A very good purchase.

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  my CRV!!! - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By Iown it - January 31 - 10:00 am

  After owning many vehicles I have finally found my car!!! Love the extended siting/space as compared to the former model years. Picnic table is cute but havent used it yet, maybe in the fall (Go PURDUE!). It handled wonderful in the Michigan Winter snow storms!

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  Fun Family or Sporty Vehicle! - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By madgator22 - January 31 - 10:00 am

  For a compact suv, roomy, luxurious, excellent gas mileage, comfortable and stylish. Drives excellent, low maintenance.