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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  Dont hesitate for a moment! - 2008 Honda Civic
  By nwarmouth - May 1 - 3:53 am

  This is my 3rd Civic and by leaps and bounds the best. I cross shopped the Prius and GTI and found the formers too soft handling and the latters prem fuel thirst and economy off-putting. Id vowed never to get WORSE mileage than my 02 Civic but wanted heated seats, XM and a more planted, composed and quiet ride, in a hatch if possible. The last wasnt to be but on all other counts, the Civic was the best choice out there. It is vastly more quiet than the previous gen. and feels almost as planted as a Euro car. Mileage is 30+ after 1500mi and should improve. I think this is an ideal commuter car with enough creature comforts and fit/finish to compete with cars far more expensive.

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  master piece - 1999 Honda Prelude
  By jojodancer - May 1 - 2:00 am

  A great car.Other than being just a little too heavey its perfect. A well built,fun and reliable sports car,not many car makers offer anything close.So if you get the chance buy one!

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  nice ride - 1996 Honda Prelude
  By boomer01987 - May 1 - 2:00 am

  looks good , rides nice , plenty fast

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  Prelude of 94 - 1994 Honda Prelude
  By SUTOMAN1 - May 1 - 2:00 am

  What an awesome auto this is to me. Sporty look and fast as can be! Takes turns at 70 mph like it was nothing.

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  Mad VTEC - 1993 Honda Prelude
  By Visual - May 1 - 2:00 am

  This car is really a "Value for money VTEC vehicle" its amazing styling and performance make it an absolute amazing car to own and drive. The only other car I would replace this with is a Honda S2000.

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  LOVE my Insight - 2001 Honda Insight
  By Fritz - May 1 - 2:00 am

  Ive had this car 1 year, and have been VERY satisfied. It is a very cool looking car, and is Hondas usual high quality. Fun to drive, and excellent milage.

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  LOVE my Insight - 2001 Honda Insight
  By fritz - May 1 - 2:00 am

  Ive had this car 1 year, and have been VERY satisfied. It is a very cool looking car, and is Hondas usual high quality. Fun to drive, and excellent milage.

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  In My Element - 2004 Honda Element
  By DBrandon - May 1 - 2:00 am

  We enjoy camping and travel to National Parks. The Element with its versatile interior design meets many of our camping needs.

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  My used CRV EX - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By MBNB - May 1 - 2:00 am

  After years of driving a mid sized truck it was time to get something to haul the family in. The space in this car is amazing. The all wheel drive is a must and the low cost of ownership is something I look forward to.

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  I wouldnt have another car! - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Figah - May 1 - 2:00 am

  This is my very 1st time to ever own a Minivan and trust me, I Love It and I would only change it to up grade it because it would either stay comfortable or it would get more luxury! I just love the Van.... Figah