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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  An Excellent Commuter - 2001 Honda Accord
  By Jose Rios - December 31 - 10:18 am

  Purchased my 2001 Honda Accord EX V6 about 4 months ago, and I have to say it is absolutely wonderful so far. It was previously owned by an elderly lady who bought it brand new, and she took great care of it. The exterior look is timeless and simple, and the interior is practical and very comfortable. Ride quality is also superb for a 2001 with 146k, road noise is minimal. My only complaint with the drive is the amount of body roll, which should be expected for a car this size. I also have a gripe with the MPG, which again should be expected with a 3.0 V6, but is far off from the estimated MPG. I average about 19mpg, compared to the 26mpg that is commonly advertised. My only other complaint is the transmission, which should have never been coupled with this torquey V6. My transmission hasnt given me issues yet, but the shifts are not exactly smooth, and Ive read numerous complaints about transmission failure. Overall, it is an excellent car and would highly recommend to anyone looking for an inexpensive and comfortable ride.

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  Glad I waited - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By Mike - December 31 - 8:00 am

  Im glad I waited for the new CRV. Was about to get a new RAV4 but did not like the large spare tire on the back. The new CRV looks great and you cant beat the build quality of Honda. One dealership had a $2500 mark-up above MSRP. My dealership never does that and I got a good deal considereing i was getting one from their 1st shipment. The transmission is really smooth - car is extremely quiet. One-touch sun roof cant be heard. Room is fine. Thought I might ge the LX, but the price differnec between the LX and EX isnt all that much. Great looking - gets unanimous praise for looks - really happy with this car.

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  Japanese Auto Manufacturers Have 100% Pe - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By whitenavajo - December 30 - 10:33 pm

  After a long wait we purchased the newly redesigned 2007 CR-V. We are thrilled with everything about this car. The turning radius is amazing! The interior is extremely roomy and very well made. The leather cleans up great. The liftgate now opens up and not to the side so you can be parked inside a garage and open it with no problems. The cargo area has a dual decker shelf that can be removed. We love this little car.

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  Best so far! - 2005 Honda Accord
  By Charles P - December 30 - 2:23 am

  All the inside of the car works great. Controls are easy to read and love the climate control. I must say the 4 has all the horse. The car key was big in the hand at first, But it does some great things, Door and trunk opener. Another Great option on keys you can hold open button on for 3-4 sec and all 4 windows open. Nice leather seats, like the feel.

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  Solid, reliable, practical - 1998 Honda Odyssey
  By BS-NY - December 30 - 2:00 am

  Is it a sports car? No, its a minivan. And its about as good as they get. The older model -- slightly smaller than the new one introduced in 1999 -- is more car-like in its size, handling, exit/egress and ride than any other minivan youll drive, including the newer Odysseys. Its reliable. Its economical. Its safe. So what if its just a little bit boring?

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  A dream to drive - 2003 Honda S2000
  By billmnt - December 30 - 2:00 am

  This car handles like a dream and makes driving fun again. Everyone that sees it loves it - sleek lines, great handling, very classic styling.

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  1997 SE HONDA ACCORD - 1997 Honda Accord
  By gdnstar - December 30 - 2:00 am

  I HAVE REALLY ENJOYED THE 1997 HONDA ACCORD. I HAVE HAD FEW MECHANICAL PROBLEMS. I WILL NOTE THAT I HAVE HAD 2 SENSORS GO OUT, FORTUNATELY THEY WERE COVERED UNDER THE HONDA EMISSIONS WARRANTY.

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  Luv my car - 2001 Honda CR-V
  By Jillith - December 30 - 2:00 am

  I am in this car over 2 hours per day in commute time. I carry loads of cargo that always fits. My car starts every time I turn the key, the fuel economy is great, the power is sufficient for driving in Phoenix area with no mountains. This vehicle is somehow larger on the inside than it is on the outside, I dont feel cramped at all. My complaints are the same as all 2001 CR-V owners. Weak stereo,no fuel cap holder, goofy window controls...little stuff. Other than that...Great! If I get a newer veh, Ill just get another CR-V. My mom bought the 2002 and Honda had fixed some of the 2001 and earlier issues. She also adores her car!

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  Whoo Hooo! - 2003 Honda Element
  By suberbanpest - December 30 - 2:00 am

  Yup! Pretty cool. This is what the underpowered plasticky PT Cruiser has been posing as all along. Horray for the HONDA transmisions.

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  ELEMENT IS GREAT - 2003 Honda Element
  By JERAME - December 30 - 2:00 am

  I AM IN THE 18-25 AGE BRACKET THIS CAR IS TARGETED TO AND I LOVE IT. ITS FUN TO DRIVE, HANDLES WELL AND HAS A GREAT SOUND SYSTEM. ITS DEFINATELY IN A CLASS OF ITS OWN RIGHT NOW