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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  Best Ever - 2004 Honda Accord
  By RandyTrinity - December 1 - 2:00 am

  Honda got it right with this one. Although wed have preferred a 6sp., the automatic is fantasic. An average of 33mpg highway on a 600 mile road trip, average speed 70 - 80 mph. Consistently gets 25+ mpg in town, even with auto.

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  best car - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Team718 - December 1 - 2:00 am

  The 2004 Honda Accord EX(Silver) that my mom bought is great. the features are great and the body and build of the car is crazy. I have to say that the only thing that i didnt like was the back lights at first but i now i know why they put hem on, so that they can be different than other cars.

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  Accords are the luxury cars of low price - 2005 Honda Accord
  By Danny Dannels - November 30 - 2:26 pm

  I am totally satisfied with my 2 accords.The accords are the best price and you seem to have a luxury car. They have both power and good looks. We love the leather and the roominess of the cars. I feel Honda is selling the car too low for how well they handle and look. What else can I say except we love our Hondas

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  Great caR - 2013 Honda Civic
  By Debra Zimmerman - November 30 - 12:03 pm

  Sunroof is worth going to EX. Uphill acceleration not good but bad using eco setting. Eco setting very worth it. Easy to use cruise control

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  Not a day of trouble... - 1996 Honda Accord
  By Tidepride824 - November 30 - 10:00 am

  My Accord has had no problems since the day I bought it! It now is approaching 125,000 miles, and never even had to replace brake pads, just tires at 65,000. The Honda benchmark has always been high, and this is one reason-this car!

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  A great MiniVan - 2000 Honda Odyssey
  By odm321 - November 30 - 10:00 am

  We have had the van for 2 years and have enjoyed owning it more than any other vehicle we have ever had. The van has plenty of get up and is very comfortable on long trips and just around town. Ample room for seven adults wich we have had on many occations.

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  crv - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By jul26 - November 30 - 10:00 am

  the crv is fun to drive . I love it . My husband is 6" 2 so it is a little tight for him. For me it is perfect. I m 5" 2

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  not what I expected form Honda - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By alfaron - November 30 - 10:00 am

  I just bought the crv for 2 days. Already therere defective noises in the rear (right) whenever I press the brakes. Moreover, I have found out that the front passengers door handle is missing an internal plastic part. Does Honda really build cars so good that they command higher prices when compared to their peers? I dont think so.

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  Great though not perfect van - 2002 Honda Odyssey
  By Dr. Perfection - November 30 - 10:00 am

  What makes a vehicle a great one? It lives up to what it says in reality. It could be quality, reliability, comfortness, power, design functions, appearance, fuel economy, performance (all kinds), etc. This Odyssey is doing really well in almost all of the above characters, except the fuel economy, powertrain noise, and interior material quality. Overall, its a great van with value though not perfect.

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  Suave SUV - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By scotthou - November 30 - 10:00 am

  Hondas has done it! A sorely needed replacement for the aging and unpopular Passport. With an excellent engine and body platform, I couldnt go wrong. If you are not pulling a large load, its the best all-around choice for an SUV. I got 16.6 mpg first tank but it should get better. With 240 HP its enough for the intended market. I ordered mine at MSRP (but options are discounted) from Kevin Keen of Ken Wise Honda in Marshalltown Iowa over the phone. They drove it to Mpls w/no extra charges. Its my third Honda from the same dealer (CR-V, Odyssey, and now the Pilot.) Small town dealer offers great service!