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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  In shop 5 times in 6 weeks - 2003 Honda Civic
  By JS - March 17 - 2:00 am

  The review title says it all. Ive owned the car 6 weeks and it has been in the shop 5 times. The build quality is *not* what I associate with the Honda name. This car has quite a few rattles. Also some of the carpet on the side of the trunk has already come off where a screw was missed. These are minor inconconveniences, but once again not the quality I expect from Honda.

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  DONT BUY A HONDA - 2003 Honda Civic
  By Anonymous22 - March 17 - 2:00 am

  Front bumper chipping & rear trunk peeling. Body dents way too easily & has flimsy bumpers. Tires have terrible traction (firestone). Turning ratio is too small. Engine is gutless (no get up and go without redlining the engine). Dash always rattles when cold. Cheap cloth for interior. Substandard radio and speakers. Suspension and shocks are way to stiff (feel everything on the road). Small gas tank (fill every 3-4 days). Mats and trunk liner do not fit correctly for OEM. Transmission jerks when slowing down abruptly. Seat comfort is minimal.

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  one nice sports car - 2001 Honda Prelude
  By roblude - March 16 - 11:30 pm

  its been a nice ride and fun to drive i would recommend it to anyone lookin for a nice car with good speed and reliable.

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  Perfect balance of fun and function! - 2008 Honda Accord
  By D&N Stone - March 16 - 8:56 pm

  After researching and driving many different vehicles, we choose the Honda Accord V-6 4 door sedan. Why? Because is has the perfect balance of the things we were looking for without sacrificing any one feature. The 4- door provides the room we needed, the exterior design keeps the "sedan" from looking boring, the gas mileage is great, the price point was right, and the reliability is terrific. We are thrilled with our new car. Kudos to Honda - they got this one right!

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  Da Kine - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By akahele - March 16 - 6:03 pm

  This is the best car I have ever driven or owned. I think it is a much better automobile than even a bmw or mercedes. Unbelievable comfort power and handling. Auto doors good sound system, excellent ac. Visibility is great, drive by wire is very nice when using cruise control. wish it really got 30 mpg though, but ill settle with what I get because its such a good car.

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  Dont Wait - 2008 Honda Accord
  By What a Car - March 16 - 3:43 pm

  I just traded in a 2008 Honda Accord 4cyl for this 6cyl, let me tell you its night and day. The 4cyl was loud and a litte harsh, the 6cyl is a thing of beauty and the smoothness of it is unbelieveable. If you can afford it, definately get the six cyl. When you test drive these cars do yourself a favor and take both models out and youll see what I mean. I bought the Exl version and its perfect for all the features you get. The car rides beautifully but at the same time you feel the road. Ive bought over 20 cars in my life and I can tell you this car is by far the best of all.

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  Great value for money - 2000 Honda Passport
  By abhi - March 16 - 11:18 am

  It is a great suv for city use. Very useful for moving and groceries with a large trunk. only problem is the heat from the engine gets to your legs during summer. steering is cool and stereo from honda is very good.scary on steep turns.

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  Great Civic - 2008 Honda Civic
  By andrew dansereau - March 16 - 12:30 am

  I have near 5000 miles on the EX-L Civic. This is a luxury compact sedan with plenty of room. Everything from the heated seats the dash display, the quality that Honda put into this car does make it a luxury compact. Best mpg so far 42! No need to slam the door closed, it closes with the sound of quality! I am totally amazed every time I get into this car. Can you say Swiss watch.

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  Pilot EX/Nav 2006 - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By christian - March 16 - 12:26 am

  We purchased this vehicle early this December. With 700 mles, our front windsheld water pump stopped working. The Pilot had to stay 2 days in the shop. We purchased this Pilot for my wife so she does not have to worry about mechanical problem. I took her Honda Accord, which has 38K and sold my Honda Civic. We purchase one Honda per 2 year since 1997 in average.

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  Awesome toy - 2001 Honda S2000
  By NE BlkS2K Owner - March 15 - 1:27 pm

  This is my 2nd car, so complaints like, weak stero and lack of passenger/trunk space, dont really apply for me. I wanted a classic sports car(convertible, rear-wheel drive, great handling, light weight, great power-to-weight ratio and good looks) and I got it without paying stupid money. Great 2nd car!!!