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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  Relax & Enjoy - 2004 Honda S2000
  By nucnewc - February 17 - 2:00 am

  Feeling the road and, lightning response is what makes this car fun. It feels like it always has to be restrained because it really wants to go. Driving it will put a smile on your face.

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  Best bang for the buck - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By raf23 - February 17 - 2:00 am

  Took our first long trip,which was 6 1/2 hours, and couldnt believe how comfortable the ride was. Its still a baby at 1,500 miles, but I havent found anything to complain about. Its such a bargain for what you get!!

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  Da Bomb - 2003 Honda Civic
  By Jorgtheswede - February 17 - 2:00 am

  I have nothing to complain about,I love the car.I do most of my driving in the city and I am getting 46-48mpg.The car is pretty good off the line

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  Nice Car - 2004 Honda Accord
  By IT745 - February 17 - 2:00 am

  The car has excellent build quality. The audio quality is impressive. Its handling & acceleration are very good. Very smooth transmission. It is quiet inside. Tire thump is a little intrusive on bumpy or concrete roads. There were no options for interior colors (would have prefered gray).

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  My 3rd Honda - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Senter - February 17 - 2:00 am

  1 civic 2 accords keep up the good work Honda

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  Best Honda Performance Coupe ever! - 2016 Honda Accord
  By dblacknavy@yahoo.com - February 16 - 11:21 pm

  I had a 2015 Civic SI Coupe before this and it was very difficult to part with. The Accord Coupe 3.5L V6 MT took my driving experience to the next level. Its fast, smooth and has outstanding gas mileage. I have the Still Night Pearl, along with the front, side and rear body kits. The car gets complimented almost every time I go to the gas station. Most of all, Im very impressed with the shifter and clutch. The throaty exhaust note and powerful engine revving can be addictive, especially during acceleration. This car exceeded my expectations in every area. Thoroughly pleased Honda customer!

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  My First New Car - 2008 Honda Accord
  By The Lords Accord - February 16 - 1:03 pm

  The new 08 Honda Accord is beautifully designed. The impressive thing is that the LX base model comes with many necessities like full side airbags, power up/down driver windows, 16" wheels and Dunlop tires, drive-by-wire throttle, double-wishbone and ind. multi-link suspension, and vehicle stability control. The passenger space is very roomy. However, the trunk is not as big as you would like in a large- size car. Additionally, the standard seats are not my favorite. I did try the CR-V and it felt better to drive, but my wife demanded elegance and luxury so we went with the Accord. It is such a beautiful car that Ive only put 400 miles in three weeks. It is better admired than driven!

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  Perfection - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By Octavivs - February 16 - 12:23 pm

  This is absolutely the best vehicle I have ever owned. Having been through a sedan, two trucks and an SUV, I have finally found a vehicle that has the best components of each for a family. It drives like a car. The inside is as roomy as an SUV and accomodates car seats nicely. It is terrific for occassionally hauling items in a truck bed, and best of all it has a great trunk! If you dont test drive one, you wont realize what a terrific car it is. Honda has really gotten this one right. It is also much more attractive in person (both inside and outside) than the pictures would lead you to believe.

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  Hybrid Owner - 2003 Honda Civic
  By JasonLev - February 16 - 10:00 am

  I have about 2000 miles currently with lifetime MPG of approximately 42 Great car, luxury line for Honda Civic, just take a look at the EX and compare. Cost is an issue, but remember that there is currently a $2000 Federal tax rebate and the improved savings on fuel. Also, the state of Maryland does not charge sales tax on low emmisions/alternate fuel vehicles, so I saved about $1000 there as well. I recommend this vehicle to anyone, young or old, as an intelligent and responsible choice - just keep in mind its not a sports car.

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  Highly recommended - 2002 Honda Accord
  By jerome - February 16 - 10:00 am

  Got for the same price as a Saturn L300, (V6), and much more of a car for the money. Very smooth riding car. It is exactly what I wanted, a reliable, 4 door sedan. So what if it is bland looking. For those that want more pizzaz, opt for the coupe or another car.