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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  2000 Odyssey - 2000 Honda Odyssey
  By mogll - January 3 - 2:00 am

  Of all minivans we looked at, the Odyssey was by far the best value with outstanding engine performance in all driving terrains & conditions. The 3rd seat is great with its stowaway capability. If you remove the center seats you can fit a queen size air mattress completely under the 3rd seat with the air plug accessible from the rear hatch the mattress will extend all the way up to the front seats covering the entire floor area. This is a great configuration for long distance travel. My wife & I are about 66" and can completely stretch out side-by-side to sleep comfortably.

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  Major Brake Issues - 2009 Honda Accord
  By Sammy - January 2 - 10:43 pm

  My fiance and I purchased an 09 EX 4 Cyl. without navigation in Sept. 2008. The car rides great and is fun to drive. The gas mileage is terrific. Honda has refused to address a major brake issue as of yet. We have already had to spend nearly $200 for new rear brake pads in 16 months. Brake pads should not wear out that quickly. Honda has had many complaints and the web is filled with comments on the issue. Lets hope Honda does the right thing.

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  Why did I not do this sooner? - 2005 Honda S2000
  By OahuJD - January 2 - 10:00 am

  To be honest, waking up in the morning is so much easier now that I own the S2000. I cant wait to drop the top and soak in the Hawaiian mornings. This is the finest made car I have ever driven/owned. I looked at the Porsche Boxer, Mercedes, Lexus, and the BMW. Most came close to the S2000, but they all lack in one category or another while the Honda is the complete package. After the 600 mile break-in period, hold on! This car is super quick, and driving on twisty roads makes it that much more enjoyable! I highly recommend this car!!

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  Excellent - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By SharonTrn - January 2 - 10:00 am

  This SUV is a fine example of a excellence. It is not only a great car to drive but also the best looking car in the Super Market parking lot. The Honda Pilot is a must to own. We truely love this car. We bought this car fully loaded.

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  Honda Heaven - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By abhappu - January 2 - 10:00 am

  I traded my 2002 BMW 325i for a 2005 Honda Pilot EXL. Although both cars are inherently different, I love the versatility and value of my Pilot. The drive is incredibly smooth and it handles really well, almost like a car. And I love the sunroof and plush leather interior with wood trim. All this from someone who swore shed never buy an SUV!

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  Certified PreOwned YEAR 2002 - 2004 Honda Civic
  By BAAllen33@aol.com - January 2 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car in June of 2004. It was a 2002 Honda Certified Preowned Civic EX. I love this car. It is reliable and sturdy. The engine is a little loud, but what can you expect. I had a few problems when I got it- minor. The dealership paid for it and gave me a rental car. Things like the light burnt out, the battery died etc.. Just maintanace issues. Again, like I said it was paid for- and I was given a rental car for 100% FREE! If I had a chois to buy this car over again - I would say YES, with out hesitation. My previous car was a 93 Toyota Camry. I had to get use to the smaller size, however the quality and reliability I did not have to comprimise

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  BIG DISAPPOINTMENT - Consumer ALERT - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Disappointed !!!! - January 2 - 10:00 am

  I submitted a rating about a year ago on this car - it was glowing. Well, no problems except ONE BIG ONE. A recall on the auto transmission. I rated the car all "1" (low), since nothing else matters if the car has a bad transmission that could cause an accident-this is in their recall notice! I asked about the reported tranny issues before I bought the car. I was told the problem was solved in the 04s. I guess not. So now, I have to have Honda put an oil jet in (my car is 2/3 of the mileage to needing a tranny replacement - so it is likely the tranny is damaged at this point - and so I just wait for a failure). THIS IS THE HONDA QUALITY EVERYONE TALKS ABOUT!!! DISAPPOINTED ! ! !

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  1st honda, not disappointed - 2004 Honda Accord
  By pkp144 - January 2 - 10:00 am

  this is my first honda, and im not disappointed. vtec v6 is unreal. all the creature comforts you can ask for. why would anyone buy the tsx and only get the 4cyl. when for less money you have a v6 loaded accord, simply for the acura badge?? doesnt make sense. honda did not disappoint, and the dealership was excellent.

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  Love Honda, love the CR-V EX - 2018 Honda CR-V
  By Mike Terzic - January 2 - 7:49 am

  I had Hondas before so it was easy decision purchasing another Honda product. Known for reliability, value, safety and resale value.

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  Great Van - 2007 Honda Odyssey
  By BK Patel - January 2 - 6:26 am

  Great fuel economy, 20 mpg. Great ride only some road noise due to choice of Bridgestone tires. Great finish and paint. Great handling and braking. Great acceleration and power. Great interior. Great safety ratings. Great value for money. Great resale value maintained in future. Great reliability