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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  Love my 97 - 1997 Honda Accord
  By Jason - October 23 - 9:44 am

  I bought this car used 1 1/2 years old w/ 26k miles. The car now has 264,000 miles and mostly minor fixes due to mileage and age (new radiator in 06), fluid changes, and 1 timing belt so far, plugs/wires etc.. nothing out of the ordinary. I still drive this car 100 miles per day even though I have another 07 Accord and a 03 CR-V all of which have been awesome cars. Easily the best car(s) Ive ever owned. Even after all this time its very comfortable and quiet. I am going to run this car till it dies!

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  A PLEASANT SURPRISE - 2005 Honda Accord
  By irvinette barnes - October 22 - 6:53 pm

  I am very pleased with my purchase of the 2005 Honda Accord. In my vehicle search, Honda was not my first my choice. I was in desperate need of a vehicle, and needed something I could rely on. I dont consider myself a basic person, but in my mind, that is what Honda represented. Boy! was I wrong. I was really impressed with the features and the style of the vehicle. The navigation system has helped me find my way on numerous occasions (a must if you can). I love the satellite radio, and I never listen to local stations anymore. My Accord has handled really well in the snow, when other more expensive cars have failed. All that I can say is that this is a purchase that I am glad I made.

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  Good performance midsize car - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Dr Who - October 21 - 4:21 pm

  Bought the EX V6 new in Jan. 03 and been happy with the car 30K later. I had several recalls work, most serious was the tranny. However, it started every time and have never broken down once in 5.6 years. Its fairly fast and hold it own against the BMW, Audi but at a much lower cost. Very good car for the money as compared to the Maxima or Camry. It certainly is not as luxurious as the Germans or Japanese high end but is a decent ride. Road holding is not great due to the tires. Mileage (23 MPG) is actually worse than my 1993 Maxima (25 MPG) mainly because of the 5 speed auto held back at 4th gear in city traffic.

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  Good Ol Honda! - 2007 Honda Accord
  By Koz - October 21 - 11:44 am

  Ive had my V6 EX-L coupe for 2 years now (3 yr. lease). This is a great car, as reliable as it gets. Maybe a little boring, but arent all Hondas? Very quick for a Honda. Looks great, but no "wow" factor. No worries driving this thing around.

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  My first three months - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By Chuck E. - October 21 - 2:00 am

  Owned for 3 months, 7600 miles. It replaced a Ford F150 ex.cab 4X4 & a Focus. I drive a lot and use it as a truck for trade shows. It fills all my needs and I enjoy the performance. I thought I would miss the roominess of the F150. This vehicle has plenty of room and feels much more nimble than the F150. A very pleasant replacement for my daily comute (Focus) too. I added factory keyless entry. I have a couple of minor lingering issues. As received, the right front sill plate(threshold) was loose. It was "repaired" and is now loose again. Dealer installed accent pin striping has chipped twice. I also have a very slight hesitation.

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  Uncomfortable Seat - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Rich12 - October 21 - 2:00 am

  This car has handles very well, although the ride is stiff. The interior is inspired by more expensive German cars and is very attractive. The acceration is excellent. Unfortunately, it wasnt until 1 day after I bought the car that I realized how unbearably uncomfortable the drivers seat is to sit in. The lower seat cushion isnt wide enough for my 38 inch waist. My rear end is wedged between the two side bulsters, and this creats a pressure point on my upper right thigh. This constant pain is the source of my low ratings for comfort and fun to drive. I will probably sell this car soon.

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  So much for Honda reliability.... - 2000 Honda Odyssey
  By John S. - October 20 - 10:00 am

  We bought this van to replace a 1995 Taurus wagon, which at the time I thought was the biggest piece of garbage on the road. This van is vying for the title. In the two years since we bought it, we have had to repair/replace the front brakes/rotors twice (the entire brake design is undersized for the car), replace the entire transmission (leaky sway bar), replace rear wheel bearing, fix leaky valve cover gaskets, and repair defective sliding doors. It is an adventure to try to predict what will fail next...

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  Great Safety...Lacking luxury - 2002 Honda Odyssey
  By big red - October 20 - 10:00 am

  It doesnt look as expensive as it is, and that is a big disappointment to me. I wanted lil extras...but suppose I have to be satisfied with the automatic sliding doors, navigation system and disappearing 3rd row seat which folds into the floor for extra room for hauling things. The automatic sliding doors are hard to open manually even though the article I read on this van before I bought it, said they werent too hard to open manually. I had an accident which did 15,000 worth of damage to the van, yet I wasnt hurt hardly at all. The safety ratings are correct! Overall I would rate it a 9 anyway...guess I cant have it all on my budget!

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  Boring and Faithful - 2002 Honda Accord
  By cant keep awake - October 19 - 9:42 pm

  Bought the car new. No problems with anything but brake pads, which it eats like candy. No trans problems because I drain and fill the trans every 15,000 miles. I have 127,000 miles of rush hour freeway driving on it. Unfortunately, this is the most boring car I have ever owned. It has all the personality of a refrigerator. In fact this car is only an appliance.

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  Great vechile - built to last! - 2007 Honda Accord
  By msantiago - October 19 - 12:03 pm

  The Accord LX is definitely one the best cars on the market. The 4-cylinder is fuel efficient and surprisingly smooth and powerful. I have no problem passing and accelerating past faster, V-6 cars on the freeway. The handling is great and other comparable models cant compete (i.e., 08 Malibu, 08 Fusion). This car is reliable and Ive yet to to encounter one problem in over a year and a half. Also, speakers sound incredible.