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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  AWESOME - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Bridget - September 24 - 2:00 am

  I love my Odyssey and I wouldnt trade it for anything except another one!!!! It handles very good in bad weather, I was really surprised how well. Its very comfortable to drive. My children love to the way it drives/rides.

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  My wifes best friend. - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By rottydoggg - September 24 - 2:00 am

  Purchased the Pilot labor-day weekend 2002. This is my wifes car and she loves it. Refers to it as her best non- human friend. We have had no problems with it whatsoever.

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  My 2004 honda pilot - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By chuck lavoie - September 24 - 2:00 am

  I have one and love it..nice on the road..and great gas mileage, especially since gas prices are going up.

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  Great Metro Car - 2001 Honda Civic
  By chuckdadams - September 24 - 2:00 am

  Reliable, efficient, fun to drive - roomier than earlier Civics. The car is perfect for the daily drives, trips to the store, school, work, etc. The driver has the most fun, especially with the 5 speed. Love that 2nd gear. BUT, not the best car for long trips. Noisy with a firm, busy ride. Itll storm a long at 85, but you cant hear the radio, and the old backside begins to tire too quickly from feeling every wrinkle in the asphalt.

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  My 2003 Accord EXV6 is a Lemon - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Netti - September 24 - 2:00 am

  I am not happy with my EXV6 or DCH Paramus Honda. Water has leaked in from the front windshield which was replaced twice. Water also leaked into the trunk because a rear body seam wasnt sealed properly. The front passenger window mechanism also had to be replaced, due to loud noise. There was an interior squeaking sound that turned out to be improper welding of the panels under the car, it was rewelded.

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  fun car - 2004 Honda Accord
  By jeni - September 24 - 2:00 am

  Great fun to drive car. Lots of power and go, even though its only a 4 cyl manuel. Roomy interior. Back seat not ideal for sleepy kids. Shifting can be a hassel. Exterior looks much better with the spoiler. Over all sporty and fun to drive.

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  Love this vehicle! - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By SUVguy - September 23 - 6:30 pm

  This is my first SUV - have only driven sedans until now. Was amazed how the Pilot handles like a car, despite its 4400 lbs! It does seem big behind the wheel, but thats because of its height -- and its not too big to handle -- same length as my old Accord. It gives an unbelievably smooth ride on the highway, and I feel very safe in it. Despite some reviews/reviewers, I love the styling of the exterior. The interior is beautiful too. I am biased toward Hondas, and this Pilot isnt likely to change my mind on that...

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  What a Car! - 2018 Honda Accord
  By Tim - September 23 - 7:53 am

  Shocked by how nice this vehicle is designed. Third Accord the family has owned.

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  1993 Accord SE is excellent - 1993 Honda Accord
  By andyb889 - September 23 - 2:00 am

  I love the car. I bought it at 190k miles and it has been running excellent. I guess it will last for another 10 years.

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  1999 odyssey - 1999 Honda Odyssey
  By spaniel - September 23 - 2:00 am

  Great reliable family car with room for everything and everybody.