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:

• 

  Best Car EVER! - 2004 Honda Accord
  By FlwrKate - June 12 - 2:00 am

  I used to only buy Ford products, but after Ford failed me and a Lemon Lawsuit later... I bought a Honda and I love it. Best car I have ever had. Even with the V-6 engine, I am getting over 320 miles to the tank. Thats great for me since I travel 90 miles a day! If you are looking to buy an Accord... DO IT! It will be the best move you will ever make. My husband trys to drive it like a racecar since its so peppy. Good Luck if you buy it!

• 

  BEST DARN HONDA IVE EVER OWNED - 2004 Honda Accord
  By lucky6spd - June 12 - 2:00 am

  THIS CAR IS AMAZING. WHEN I GET INTO THE CAR THE SPEED DEMON COMES OUT AND IM SPEEDING THROUGH THE HARSE HIGHWAYS IN SO. CALI, THE HP IS GREAT, THE 6SPD MANUAL IS EVEN BETTER.. TOGETHER ITS AWESOME.

• 

  Great Value Car - 2004 Honda Accord
  By mgaspay - June 12 - 2:00 am

  Had 5 Hondas (2 Accords and 3 Civics) and have been a very satisfied Honda customer. This is my 6th Honda and 3rd Accord. Though I had this one for only a week, I have been thoroughly impressed with what Honda has done to the 2004 EX. The interior is very nice and comfortable. You get almost the same amenities as what you will get with a luxury car. And I can really feel the quality build with the tight sound when you close the door. Handles very nicely.

• 

  Great styling, to many rattles - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Dancas547 - June 12 - 2:00 am

  I bought my 03 Accord Coupe in September 03. Im writing this here because the only difference between the 04 and the 04 is that the newer model has satelite radio. I love the cars styling, and Ive never driver a car that was more comfortable. My only negative comment is that the interior and exterior has too many rattles for a 5 month old car. The ceiling and doors inside all squeak when going over bumps (started soon after purchase) and the exterior bottom running boards rattle going over bumps. Also, when the temp is greater than 50 degrees, my clutch clicks loudly every time it is pressed or released -- spring problem.

• 

  Honda saved familys life - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By gzulli - June 11 - 4:53 pm

  A dump truck ran a stop sign hit the Honda on the wifes front fender and then jack- knifed a 20 foot trailer into the rear of the van. The only part of the honda not damaged was the pass side sliding door. The wife and 3 kids walked out with slight bruises. The EMT people and police were behind my wife as the accident happened. They said they thought they were killed and couldnt believe they walked out with little or no injuries. The side curtain airbags in the 2nd & 3rd rows saved head injuries. Everyone who has seen the car said the fact they walked away is a miracle from the good Lord above. Our family thanks Honda. (by the way, a great car also:)

• 

  Good, But Not Great - 2005 Honda Accord
  By Swyler - June 11 - 3:30 pm

  Lots of pep under 50 mph, but 4 banger accelerates slowly at higher speeds. Feel every crack/bump in the road due to harsh suspension. Too much wind noise, and sunroof makes a buzzing sound when going over 40 mph on rough surfaces. Seats are a little uncomfortable for a 250 lb. heavyweight. Averaging 33 mpg.

• 

  Typical Honda Excellence - 2000 Honda Odyssey
  By Steve Clack - June 11 - 10:00 am

  Performance is very good for a minivan but wish it had the 240 hp motor and 5 spd. that has only now been installed in the 02. Interior usability and flexibilty is unrivaled among minivans or any other vehicle type. Love the fold-down rear seat. This is a great all day 90 mph cruising machine.

• 

  1997 Accord LX 5 Speed - 1997 Honda Accord
  By Liquidfender - June 11 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car used with about 62,xxx miles on it. Now I only have about 66,xxx miles on it. But I have only owned it for a few months. This car lives up to its reputation and beyond that. Coupled with the 5 speed manual transmission, this car dips for a 2.3L. This car is fantastic for the everyday driver, fuel economy is great.

• 

  Love My Car - 1999 Honda Civic
  By MPJ - June 11 - 10:00 am

  I have thoroughly enjoyed my Civic and, for the price, have found it one of the best cars I have ever owned. Ive had to watch my speed at times on the highway, though, because it will easily cruise at 80 mph. It has always been reliable and economical, requiring only its routine scheduled maintenance and oil changes. I would recommend this for anyone who wants to have a fun drive, get good gas mileage, and not worry about breakdowns or high-cost maintenance.

• 

  CRV-Complete Recreational Vehicle - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By CeeLee - June 11 - 10:00 am

  Love my CRV. I waited 5 months before I bought mine. I also looked at the Pilot (too big and expensive).I put 200 miles on it the first day I had it! This is my 3rd Honda. Everyone has a Honda in my family except for my husband who has a Toyota Highlander. The dealership was great! I paid $800 under MSRP.