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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  Best Practical Sports Car Out There - 2000 Honda Prelude
  By monty0000 - September 13 - 2:00 am

  If you want a practical sports car, look no further. Good fuel economy, enough room to fit four people if you absolutely have to (but recommended for two - and perhaps a baby seat in the back.) Amazing handling for a front wheel drive car (Car & Driver says it is the best handling car under $30,000 - and fourth best at any price.) My car has had zero defects, zero squeaks, zero rattles, and zero problems..

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  THIS BABY COULD USE SOME TORQUE!! - 2001 Honda S2000
  By 9000 RMP BABY!!! - September 13 - 2:00 am

  The motor is truley AWUSOME! at 120HP per litter you can go wrong! Buy it could use some more torque it you know what I mean! Since I install my Comptech SC which dyno at 389 hp at the wheel and 377 fttq .I have smoke Z28, SS, Cobra, M3, S4, Vette, Boxer, 300Z, Supra, Rx7, etc.of the line! This baby does 12.4 et @ 127mph!

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  Security - 1998 Honda CR-V
  By ftamg - September 13 - 2:00 am

  It is very strong vehicule. The heart is strong enough to support 3 big impact in 3 years without driver injuries or internal damage of the car. Just plastic and exterior damages.

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  Odyssey-The Absolute Best! - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By Owen - September 12 - 11:46 am

  I have never been a big fan of the minivan... until now. The first time I drove this van I was amazed at how much power it had. I like the fact that I can take off quickly when I need to. It handles like a car more than a top heavy van. The interior is very roomy and comfortable. This van is very enjoyable to drive.

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  Smooth and Powerful - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Jim Jamison - September 12 - 7:06 am

  This vehicle is an incredible value. We test drove other vehicles in this $$ class that didnt have the overall balance of power, ride and handling quality of the Pilot. I checked out Fords Explorer and Freestyle, Toyota Highlander and Nissan Pathfinder. All were good cars but just couldnt hit that home run I was looking for.

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  Honda has a life long customer in me! - 1990 Honda Civic
  By Masso - September 12 - 2:00 am

  I bought my little Honda almost exactly a year ago and I was very impressed, both with its performance and the rock solid build quality. The owner before me installed a newer stronger motor before they traded it into the dealership. I still have the stock 4 spd manual and the car can give MANY cars a BIG surprise. I have showed many cars with V8s and Powerful V6s what these Hondas are truly made of. The build quality is flawless and I trust that my Honda will never leave me stranded.

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  Be realistic - 2009 Honda Accord
  By john - September 11 - 10:13 am

  Have owned this car for 3 months and 4500 miles. It is as advertised, a roomy, practical easy to drive well built vehicle. I also own a Camry LE and a Lexus RX. The accord is typical Honda, stiffer ride more road noise, however the steering - handling and everyday driveability is excellent. For a 4 cyl 3200 lb automatic car the overall performance is fantastic. I have not gotten under 30 mpg on any tankful. The active noise cancellation and adjustable lumber support along with the 190 hp engine warrant paying for the Ex. This is not a perfect car, however for the price -drivability-room-handling- mpg-crash results-resale value and practicality its hard to find something better.

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  Excellent Value for the Price,Honda CR-V - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By Frankmrc - September 11 - 4:16 am

  I have been quite happy with my CR-V to date. It is ergonomically designed well, with ample cup holders and a very neat feature with the on dash gear shift. It has a tight feel to the steering making it handle nimbly. There is a surprising roomy feel to the vehicle, with a large storage area behind the second row seats.

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  Loopy - 1990 Honda Civic
  By Loopy - September 11 - 2:00 am

  Extremely well made car

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  A Subtle Star - 2007 Honda Civic
  By behogge - September 10 - 7:43 pm

  Many people get caught up in the lure and appeal of exotic appearance, much like face powder in a world of cluelessness. But alas, there is hope. Hondas Civic line is superb. Honda has delivered a smart looking package, brilliant engineering, comfort, amenities, and the reliability that is beyond reproach. I have two new Civics - an EX and a Hybrid. They are wonderful and best of all is knowing that like my Hondas in the past I am good for 150,000 to 200,000 miles without a worry in the world. Thanks Honda. As for drivers of mega-Detroit wheels, please tune in - and - get it. It makes a difference in your total cost of ownership, the fuel bills, and the replacement cycle. Look, buy, relax.