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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  The best for your money!!! - 2003 Honda S2000
  By richy rich - August 18 - 10:00 am

  A true drivers car.

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  Awesome !! - 2003 Honda Element
  By Keiths - August 18 - 10:00 am

  I wnet to the dealer to purchase an accord, while checking they were checking their inventory for the one I wanted I decided to look at the Element. The salesperson came back and we decided we wanted to drive the Element, after driving it we were hooked, it was so versitile, and since we were replacing a truck, it was the best of both worlds.

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  honda element - 2003 Honda Element
  By rrichrdsn - August 18 - 10:00 am

  love it, great styling, love the versatility, love the honda reliability, great gas mileage

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  Fun commuter - 2001 Honda Civic
  By Zap - August 18 - 10:00 am

  Great car. Good power, super brakes, fun handling, AWESOME fuel economy. Commute 38 miles each way and with minimal caution car easily gets 37+ mpg. Competent, reliable, comfortable, lots of storage and fun. Cant ask for much more

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  Toyota Convert - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Stickershox - August 18 - 10:00 am

  Camry or Accord? I test drove both and what sold me was the Accords interior. Simply gorgeous! More upscale than Camry. I love the 4 cylinder automatic as it is one of the smoothest 4s Ive ever driven. If you buy EX like I did, splurge the extra $1200-1400 for the leather seats; you also get dual- climate temp system and heated seats with that package. The 6 disc cd is great and its in the dash. For those who dont like the rear-end styling,the chop-off look is growing on me. The ride is a bit stiff for city driving. I also dont like the brake feel at this point; it should get better once I have this baby over 1000k I hope.

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  2013 CR-V EXL w/Nav - 2013 Honda CR-V
  By Fran - August 18 - 3:33 am

  Purchased this vehicle in 2013 certified with 6500 miles. I had to replace the Bridgestones at 39000 miles. Regular maintenence has been done, brakes are original. Hwy mileage is 32-34, city 21-22.5. Cannot beat this small wagon.

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  Honda reliability on its way down - 1998 Honda Accord
  By Rahooool - August 18 - 2:00 am

  Hondas are supposed to be reliable but my Transmission got messed up somewhere in the 50K - Lucky I bought Extended Warranty. Engine runs smoothly but lacks power for a V6 (I guess im comparing it to my previous Nissan Maxima which was awesome until i sold it off at 186K). Interior is quite convenient and comfortable but im beginning to hear squeaky noises. External sounds are minimal though. Car looks decent - better than the bland Camry but not like the Passat. If I was 40 Id probably like this car but not at 25.

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  1995 Odyssey - 1995 Honda Odyssey
  By Joe_Bob - August 18 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle was the first model year built of the Odyssey. It has been a great vehicle. Honda quality and reliability are demonstrated by this vehicle.

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  The BEST - 2003 Honda S2000
  By acuradrian - August 18 - 2:00 am

  Looked at the Corvette, Boxter, 350z This is the complete package! And the right price

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  Dont miss this boat!! - 1994 Honda Civic
  By dailydriver/racerX - August 18 - 2:00 am

  I bought this Honda new nearly 10 years ago and it still runs and drives as well today as when new. This model offers great mileage, and a sporty driving experience for those so inclined. The eqpmt levels on the EX version are high, and most new cars I have recently driven have not measured up to the high standards set by this car. I have never had a mechanical failure or engine problem, and only performed routine maintenance. Upgrade to better aftermarket tires to get the most out of it.