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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  BUCK THE SUV/MINIVAN TREND!! - 2004 Honda Element
  By BananasRUS - June 30 - 2:00 am

  This is, by far, the best value vehicle on the market!! It is the most practical, economical, fun-to-drive vehicle built today and it turns heads wherever I go!! It not only gets good gas mileage and has tons of cargo room, but it has umpteen seating configurations and is easy on the wallet. Also, the quality of the workmanship, fit and finish, standard features make for an unbeatable deal for the price!!

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  I Expected Better From Honda - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By Don424 - June 30 - 2:00 am

  In two years Ive had 4 recalls on the vehicle. I had to replace the tires at 26000 miles, the breaks make a god- awful noise(the dealer says its normal)and there is a clunking noise on the front suspension that cant be identified. Very disappointed since this is my first(& probably last Honda. This vehicle would never have gotten off the line if it was made in Japan.

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  Over Rated Van - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Bill Wiesen - June 30 - 2:00 am

  Over the past 3K miles we have averaged 12-13mpg, on par with the Hummer. The dash rattles, the automatic doors sometimes work as does the DVD system. But when it does work it does produce enough static for a 3 yr old to complain. The van has times when it is very difficult to start after it has been driven and sits for a short period. Wem are currently in negotiations on a new Toyota. I do not advise this vehicle for any family.

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  Flawless - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By ByFord - June 30 - 2:00 am

  My wife and I have owned this vehicle since October of 2002 and we still can not find any faults. I am so impressed with Hondas products and I look forward to my next purchase. The Acura TL is by far the best looking car on the road. Maybe if I buy my wife the Acura she will give me the Pilot and I can get rid of my piece of junk 2000 Ford Expedition.

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  second time around - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By 2timer - June 30 - 2:00 am

  Just ordered my second Pilot this morning. Dealer is having difficulty finding color but no surprise there. This is a wonderful vehicle and, hands down, the best SUV value on the market. If someone takes the time to do the research and make comparisons, its likely that this one is the SUV that will be chosen. In my opinion,the styling is better than the MDX, not to mention the $6,000-$7,000 difference in purchase price, regular gas vs. premium gas and a considerably better ride with more room. This vehicle is as solid as the day is long and safe as a bank vault. If youre considering it, you have made a wise decision to this point.

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  Great Car - 2001 Honda Civic
  By 01 Civic Racer - June 30 - 2:00 am

  Ive had my car for just over a year, i bought it used with 17000 miles. Ive had no probs. with the car. I love to drive it and love to add things too the car. Ive loved hondas since i had a 1989 accord with over 250000 miles and ran like a champ.

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  The small engine that could - 2001 Honda Civic
  By Tiana - June 30 - 2:00 am

  Wonderful car! Couldnt ask for better

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  Matts Honda - 2001 Honda Accord
  By Paul E. - June 30 - 2:00 am

  Excellent car from the start, if you buy a Honda Accord you gotta get a V-6 It gets up and goes nicely, great handling and brakings not bad either

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  Im wondering.... - 2003 Honda Civic
  By snowfrog - June 30 - 2:00 am

  I like this car, but at 9000 miles, the front struts had to be replaced. At 18000 miles, the alignment is out and the front tire have to be replaced. Im wondering if one has to do with the other.

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  Great first car - 2004 Honda Civic
  By AndyHahn - June 30 - 2:00 am

  I have had nothing but good ties with this car. This is my first new car. I chose Honda becasue my dad always had great luck with them. This is a great car. It has a great new look, more room than previous models, and it handles amazingly. I highly recommend checking one out. You will have a hard time leaving the dealership!