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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  HONDAS BEST KEPT SECRET - 2011 Honda Accord Crosstour
  By lugbolt1 - December 16 - 12:05 pm

  Honda has really missed the boat on promoting the crosstour. It has been classed with the Toyota Venza and Subaru, but unless you really need the few extra cubic feet of cargo, there is no comparison. This is the nicest road trip vehicle I have ever purchased including 3 bmws and 2 cadillacs. Trip right out of the box to Florida from Pa and got 28 Mpg and an incredible ride and this is 4wd. If word really got out on this car there wouldnt be any on the lot. Also $34,920 list price went down to $29,900 plus sales tx and title! We decided to look at this car initially because our sons 2009 Accord V6 Coupe has been such an incredible car.

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  Awesome Car. - 1995 Honda Civic
  By Frostbyte - December 16 - 10:00 am

  I am the owner of a modded 95 D16z6 SOHC coupe. Alls I have to say is the D series motors that come Stock in this car can be really fast. There are many bolt-ons and also Turbo and Superchargers that they make for this car. I would advise looking into that.

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  Excellent car - 1995 Honda Accord
  By brem - December 16 - 10:00 am

  smooth, plenty of rooms, never have a problem with the car for over 7 years, everyday used, and very quick for a mid-size car.

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  Excellent Car for the Money - 1997 Honda Accord
  By gatorkat - December 16 - 10:00 am

  I would definitely recommend this vehicle to anyone. It is stylish, yet functional and economical. AWESOME GAS MILEAGE and the engine (2.2L, 4 cyl.)is pretty peppy. I have the EX-L and the interior is stylish without being too frilly, very spacious as well. No mechanical problems whatsoever, very sound car. Rides nicely too. Definitely recommend this car to anyone interested in buying one!

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  What a buy? - 2002 Honda Odyssey
  By airaj - December 16 - 10:00 am

  I love this minivan than anything. It is a combination of luxury, power, and design. I trade-in my 2001 honda accord v6 with this minivan, I was a little upset when I did that but now I am 100% convinced, I did the best thing after driving this vehilce for over 8 months now.

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  The Pilot - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Eve141 - December 16 - 10:00 am

  I was considering purchasing a Toyota Highlander but a friend begged me to check out the Pilot. I was shocked by how big it was on the inside while looking rather compact on the inside. The fit and finish is fantastic, while offering lots of extras for the money. This is a much better buy than the Highlander. Im VERY pleased with my Pilot.

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  The perfect blend - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By buddyjo - December 16 - 10:00 am

  Home Run for Honda! The perfect blend of rugged SUV looks, smooth car-like ride, lots of neat little extras and spacious interior !

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  Purrfect - 2000 Honda Accord
  By Senor Den Gato - December 16 - 10:00 am

  Have had mine new since 03/00. Have 28k miles. Replaced rear deck speakers within month. ECM replaced under warranty after Check Engine light came on. Only other thing has been oil changes. Starting to get hairline cracks on side of driver seat leather near top release. Dealer told me this is common & they will replace. Seems prone to hood marks from stones, etc. Excellent highway car - but youll need a radar detector because youll go too fast without noticing it. Over 70-75 mph you will get wind noise. Id be hard pressed not to buy another Honda or Acura based on my experience. Wife just bought a 03 TL.

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  Good value - 2002 Honda Civic
  By jjpcat - December 16 - 10:00 am

  unacceptable suspension, especially the rear one. Not so comfortable front seats. Too tall. Looks unbalanced. In term of value, few challengers could come close. But you give up quite a lot of comfort for this value.

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  Great Value - 2002 Honda Accord
  By Carbrat - December 16 - 10:00 am

  Great value esp when they are clearing out the 2002. Solid, fun to drive feel. Almost everything you need....