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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  Lovin it!! - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Tony - June 29 - 7:10 pm

  I just purchased my Polished Metal EX- L yesterday. Honda did a really nice job with this Accord. Acceleration is very quick for a 4 cylinder. The steering feel and handling of the car is athletic. The interior is great. The seats are supportive and the materials are great. Exterior styling, in my opinion is very attractive. Reminds me of a cross between an Acura RL and a BMW 5 series. I showed the car to a friend of mine and he commented that it was almost like a luxury car inside. He owns a BMW.

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  Issues with Transmission - 2015 Honda CR-V
  By Varicci1@yahoo.com - June 29 - 10:09 am

  When driving down hill and braking the car excellerates. From 2200 rpm to 3000 rpm . It is scary I will bring mine in for service but from what Ive heard at other websites the dealers adjustments do little or nothing and the gas consumption goes up. Honda must address this issue with possible replacement of all these transmissions. Can be dangerous

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  It just plain gets the job done - 2005 Honda Accord
  By OR driver - June 29 - 8:26 am

  This is a safe, reliable and ergonomically superb automobile. The styling isa bit vague, certainly not as aggressive as Mazda6 or Altima, however this isnt a sports car, its a family sedan meant to transport a family in style and that is exactly what it does.

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  The Swetest thing - 2003 Honda S2000
  By CoRkY - June 29 - 2:00 am

  This car is awsome

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  Its Elementary! - 2003 Honda Element
  By ItsElementary - June 29 - 2:00 am

  I have always owned Subarus and Hondas its just been my "bag". I looked into buying an Outback to go with my WRX "weekender", but the price was high and style was low. The element really fit the bill, unbelievable to drive and super practical. It is like nothing else out there. Windows down 270watt system pumping, great stuff! Guess what the Element is now my "weekender"!!!

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  Great Little Car - 2003 Honda Element
  By herndonk - June 29 - 2:00 am

  Purchased the vehicle because we like to camp and travel to our childrens homes. Lot of room for storage and easy to load and unload. Still have the seats there if we need them once we get there.

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  interior is lacking - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By nitsirk - June 29 - 2:00 am

  I find the interior uncomfortable. The seats, front and rear, have little to no cushion. The rear seats are roomy, but not comfortable. This is truly the only thing I dislike about my CR-V. Also, the roof rack covers (4) where the rack connects, keep falling off but the AutoWest dealership in Roseville replaces them.

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  three problems with the new cars - 1999 Honda Accord
  By Max Shao - June 29 - 2:00 am

  Three problems with Honda Accord: 1) The car jitters when the driver wants to accelerate after slowing down for a turn or for a stop sign. It is very uncomfortable and it is dangerous, e.g., when one wants to make a left turn and the car does not accelerate smoothly and promptly. 2) Banging noise when one starts the engine. These two problems occur in every new Honda Accord of 1998-2001 years. Honda can do nothing about them. 3) The engine stalls due to ignition switch prematurely worn out. It is dangerous since if your engine stalls while driving in traffic, you are at risk of being hit. Honda has recalled its 1997-99 Accord for repairing this defect.

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  Nice van - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By Jeffts - June 29 - 2:00 am

  Best van That I have ever owned all a great package good price. Good get up and go horse power nice v6

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  My new (used) 2000 - 2000 Honda Accord
  By JIB - June 29 - 2:00 am

  Just picked up a 2000 EX V6 from a private party. It is great to drive. I love the interior. It is functional and good looking. The car currently has the original Michelin MXV4s. I will be replacing them with Bridgestone Turanza LS-Hs this week.