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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  Seniors on the Go! - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By Russ - August 23 - 4:20 pm

  We travel to our condo in Marco Island. After two years stuffed into our normal car we opted for minivan comfort, plus room for all items we carry on trips. Plus 3 couples can ride comfortably when going to dinner, the beach or bingo!! So move over for the Q-Tip crowd. Minivans are not just for the young !!!!

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  After 10,000 Miles, heres my review - 2006 Honda Accord
  By Jim Suss - August 23 - 1:23 pm

  Yes its dependable. It has some get up and go. But its a dull, boring car. The automatic transmission grabs and seems clunky. Descending hills and approaching stops, the transmission holds the car back and there is no way to turn this "feature" off. Apparently the feature is called "brake assist", but there needs to be an off button for this and there is not. Its very tough to get used to. I rented a Maxima on a recent trip and that was VERY nice. Fast, fun to drive, more leg room and no grabby transmission. In my opinion, if youre interested in the Accord, test drive the Maxima first.

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  Unbelievable quality - 1994 Honda Prelude
  By TxReviewer - August 23 - 2:00 am

  Very satisfied with every aspect of this car. It has 198,000 miles with no major problems. The only thing to wear out on this car has been the radiator. Fun to drive and great fuel economy.

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  My Element EX - 2003 Honda Element
  By Element Fan - August 23 - 2:00 am

  I probably got the 1st Element in Pittsburgh, an EX. I was patiently waiting for it since 2 mths whne I 1st heard about it. I like it a lot except for 2 things, 1. Pickup 2. Keyless Entry - When did Honda make this optional on their EX models. Its a real pain unlocking & locking the vehicle from the driver side!!!

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  Good user friendly SUV - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By TROB - August 23 - 2:00 am

  I bought my CRV "V" new in 2002 I have had zero problems. I would like better lumbar support, larger tires less brake, road noise, and more bass in the stereo. Utility is great I have carried several large items which fit into an exterior that appears too small on the outside but fit inside.The fit and finish are great as is the rear leg room. I still think it is the best sport ute for the money getting the fuel economy it does. I would hate to be my neighbor who owns an suv so large he doesnt drive it but once every few weeks to once a month.

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  New Pilot _ No Dealing - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Vane - August 23 - 2:00 am

  Looked at Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot. Went to four dealerships. All when questioned about dealing, they all pointed to the "Sticker" and that was that. The Honda had the additional third row seat that sold us on it. Plus we went to resale values on Chevy Trailblazer, Buick Redevous,and GMC Envoy. All were considerably less than Honda and Toyota. Also, a big selling point was that it is front wheel drive.

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  One of the Best Choice I have ever made - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By j.j. - August 23 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle is fun to drive, very stable, and good visibility, I have never driven a mini-van before but I found no problem driving this car. The only thing it is limited supplies and I wouldnt able to get the color that I wanted, but still, I give A+ for this vehicle.

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  Love this car - 2003 Honda Civic
  By Julie123467864 - August 23 - 2:00 am

  Gets wonderful gas mileage. After a year it still feels like its brand new. In a perfect world everyone would be driving a civic

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  I never thought I would ever own one! - 2003 Honda Civic
  By HondaCub - August 23 - 2:00 am

  I never ever thougth I would own another japanese car, but after 3 years owning a piece of crap american car.. I went back. What a difference it has made in my life. No more problems! No more hassles! Only the best driving experience of my life!

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  Great car! - 2002 Honda Accord
  By klowhorn - August 23 - 2:00 am

  This is my second import, my first was a 1999 Mitsubishi Galant. This car is so much better. It is quicker off the line even though horse power ratings are the same. It rides smoother, has better construction, and better fit, finish, and quality of materials.