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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  Earths New Element - 2003 Honda Element
  By terry babbitt - January 6 - 10:00 am

  This is exactly what I was looking for in a new vehicle to replace my big SUV gas guzzler. It has more room inside than my Trooper, it handles like an Accord, carries loads like a big pick- up, gets good mileage, and best of all, its a Honda quality product. I cant tell you how many times I have had to show the inside of the Element to strangers in the mall parking lot. I should get a commision from Honda!!

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  Elemental driving - 2003 Honda Element
  By ezkapp - January 6 - 10:00 am

  Comfort and flexibility are the hallmarks. Funky styling like an WWI French ambulance and a solid feel. Great interior room, especially rear seats if only two, and a decent sound system.

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  Couldnt have done better - 1999 Honda Accord
  By Florida Hockey Fan - January 6 - 10:00 am

  For anyone looking for a sporty, stylish, comfortable, affordable, reliable car, this is the one for you. Its got it all. After driving the 4- dr. Accords I came upon the coupe and was hooked. This car is in immaculate shape, the engine purrs like a kitten, and has been a joy to drive. Hugs the road, feels like its got some weight behind it without feeling sluggish. My friends and family keep going back to Honda and now I understand why.

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  Got the look but not the comfort - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Kaela - January 6 - 10:00 am

  In my opinion, this vehicle dosent really hold up to the honda reputation. It is a "gas hog" to say the least. It has poor gas mileage, especially when using the air- conditioner. The leather interior has a sleek style but quite a stiff feel to it. The backseats are most uncomfortable on long trips. On a positive note, it handles real well and rides nice. I like the exterior design. Overall, it has the look of a luxury SUV but not the comfort. I give it an OK in its SUV class.

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  The Best - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Neowww - January 6 - 10:00 am

  Just drive it and you will buy its the best Honda ever

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  I love my Si - 2003 Honda Civic
  By hondacrzy03 - January 6 - 10:00 am

  I bought a brand new Civic Si in july of 2003 and have loved every day I drive it. I look a lot of times to go some where for fun just because I want to drive it. I would say that any one that wants a fun to drive car and one that is riliability is top notch this is the car for you.

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  Excellent vehicle - 2003 Honda Civic
  By dalymagic - January 6 - 10:00 am

  I could not be happier with my new car. It is such a smooth drive, and it handles really well. I love the displays, and the factory sound system is excellent. Fuel economy is awesome. Its just the greatest car. I highly recommend it to anyone seeking a reasonably priced, completely reliable, incredibly safe and fun car.

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  Great Car - 2003 Honda Civic
  By Butchiboy - January 6 - 10:00 am

  As I drove my car out of the dealership, people stared at my car. I drove the car to Arizona for a test drive. It took me a full tank from Riverside, CA to Phoenix, Az. It drives pretty well.

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  I LOVE MY HONDA - 2003 Honda Civic
  By Jams - January 6 - 10:00 am

  I find that my honda civic is very dependable. It rides very smooth. I had a pontiac grandam before and I can tell you that that car was a lemon! I had nothing but problems with it from the start! This honda civic has been a dream to me. When I leave home in the morning to go to work I know I will get there with no problem and that means everything to me to have a car that is so dependable!

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  Great Car - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Donielle - January 6 - 9:23 am

  I traded in my Isuzu Trooper for a Honda Pilot EX no leather. I really love the car however the gas milage is terrible. I average 15-17 miles per gallon, not the 17-22 it says on the sticker. I do not have a heavy foot. I also do not understand why Honda did not put AT (all terrain tires) on this vehicle. My Pilot came with Bridgestone H-T tires which do not work off road or in the rain at all and is a bad thing considering I live in the Seattle area. Now dont get me wrong I really like this car. The seating room is awesome and I also like that the Pilot is not too big or too small. Overall this vehicle is a family hauler for city or country life