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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  Great Truck at a Great Price - 2008 Honda Ridgeline
  By mc7 - July 19 - 7:50 am

  Im a truck guy, and I was dead set on buying a tundra or f-150 until gas crept up to $4/gallon. So I went to the Toyota dealership set on buying a Tacoma. But the dealership was rude and was not interested in negotiating. That was the best thing that ever happened because the ridge blows the taco away. Its everything I need in a truck plus more. It has the comfort and features of a nice SUV which is great for 90% percent of the driving I do, and the utility of a truck for the 10% of the time when I need it. Definite buy, I got it at the dealers cost -4500 Honda incentive. (almost 10k off sticker price)

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  Another transmission - 2002 Honda Accord
  By me - July 18 - 10:40 pm

  I had to have the transmission replaced at 93k miles I was lucky that I had the extended warranty. The dealership replaced it with one that had 50k on it now 30k later I have to put another transmission in it and replace the ABS modulator and my TCS comes on, on when I am on the hi-way. This is just crazy, I love my Hondas I have had and I am sad to say I will be getting rid of this one soon.

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  So good I completely reconditioned it - 1997 Honda Accord
  By JOHN PINE - July 18 - 9:39 pm

  This car I gave to my daughter in 2003. After 5 years it looked like it had been driven in a demolition derby but it ran almost perfectly. How much do I think of this car? I completely re-did the exterior and interior, spending $3000. Shell have to earn the right to drive it again. In my opinion this wagon is a true classic!

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  Great Car - EXCEPT. - 2006 Honda Civic
  By mark - July 18 - 10:06 am

  Ive had this car for almost two years and I still love it except for ONE thing. At 25,000 miles I had to replace all four tires (Bridestone Tourenza) because of flat spots, cupping and feathering. Bridgestone basically said "tough luck" and Honda said that its obviously a tire problem. In researching this situation I am not alone with this problem. It IS the cars fault due to some faulty struts and suspension components (mostly at the rear). Now I have 4 premium Michelins and, believe me, Im keeping a close eye on them for irregular wear. Other than that, this is a great car to drive and is fantastic on gas! I always get 38-40 mpg on the highway, even at 75 mph with the AC on! Nice!

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  Simply amazed! - 2004 Honda Civic
  By Fraug - July 17 - 1:56 pm

  A few years ago I would never buy a vehicle that was not an "American" automobile. When gasoline prices began rising early 2004, I was no longer as proud of my American gas-guzzling pickup truck. Though I still need it for my small ranch. Perfect for that! Anyway, the payment for my Civic was almost the same as the cost for the gasoline I was using in my truck for commuting to work. The amount I spend on gasoline now is almost the same as I was spending on my pickup 4 years ago. i am averaging 32- 35 mpg with 73,000 miles. I commute 100 miles total every day. I have had ZERO problems with my Civic!

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  2004 owner - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By mtchape - July 17 - 10:00 am

  This is our 3rd odyssey and we tow it behind our motorhome for 30-40,000 every 3 years. We have never had any trouble with anything. It always starts, drives and hauls all our "stuff". What a great van!!!!

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  Colors, please - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By JMock - July 17 - 10:00 am

  Great van - it has been a comfortable addition to our 2 child family. Solid and reliable.

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  Honda Pilot EX - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By amossj - July 17 - 10:00 am

  Great vehicle. Very dependable and performs well. Good acceleration and handling for a SUV. Very spacious, comfortable with a well thought out interior.

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  Smart, cool and smooth... - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By Kinsey Party of 5 - July 17 - 10:00 am

  This is the 4th Honda Ive owned, and the first SUV, and everything I love about Honda is compounded in the 2004 Pilot. Extremely smooth ride, outstanding, well-thought-out features, and smart styling. We opted for the Leather/DVD EXL, and after our first car trip with our 3 kids, I noted the DVD was well worth the price due to how quiet the kids were during the ride! The only disappointment I had was due to the popularity of the Pilot, I had very little negotiation room on the price with several dealers, but I dont doubt I got my moneys worth: the Pilot seems like it was built just for our family.

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  Nice car, needs a few more features - 2008 Honda Fit
  By iglehart - July 17 - 9:34 am

  Just bought it, so I cant comment on reliability. Its a blast to drive and get good gas mileage. It was reasonably prices.