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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  Transmission Woes - 2002 Honda Odyssey
  By Dissatisfied - June 23 - 2:21 pm

  Just got an estimate from the dealer for a new transmission in the amount of $ 5000 and thats with the old PCM (the computer module that dictates how the transmission shifts). Its another $1200 for a new PCM that will supposedly increase the life of these transmissions. This car is only 6 years old. The transmission should last longer in my opinion. I bought Honda because I thought they built reliable cars. This was a disappointment and I will no doubt look to other makes.

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  Have a fit - 2007 Honda Fit
  By Tif - June 23 - 1:32 pm

  I love my fit, its fun to drive, excellent performance and steering. I can fit as much in the back as I did in my truck. I do wish the gas tank was a few gallons larger though.

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  Honda Element 2007 - 2007 Honda Element
  By JoAnne Stubbs - June 23 - 6:47 am

  I love my Honda Element but the blinds spots are annoying when backing up. I have had to replace the brakes on the rear after only 17,000 miles. Honda Corp. has not followed up on my complain either to resolve the issue. I have owned many vehicles and have never had to service calipers or replace brakes with so little miles. Very disappointed in Honda in how they handled the issue.

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  Save Big! - 2007 Honda Civic
  By Steven - June 22 - 6:16 pm

  If you drive with gas saving in mind, slowly & patiently this car is for you. Little bit of a stiff ride,but seats are comfy. CVT takes a little bit to get used to. Been accustomed to having a vehicle shift to each gear,now this cvt is shiftless just the one gear constantly adjusting for best fuel mileage. Power is what you should expect from a hybrid. I think my lawn mower has more get up and go. Steers like a charm and no complaints yet. I honestly drive like a grandpa. This car suits me very well. Performance is not this vehicle by any means. Ive owned a Camaro with a LS1 engine, I know power and paying for it at the pump.

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  For small drivers only - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By giovannais - June 22 - 10:00 am

  For a Honda devotee, this SUV model is somewhat disappointing in the comfort department. If driver is taller than 55", get set for cramped legs. No ability to extend front seat for comfort. Moon roof does not open to a fully opened position. A pressured vibration exists when one window is opened, only subsiding when two or more windows are opened. Floor controls for gas and hood release take up so much space that left ankle is forced in an awkward position.

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  My Little Munchkin - 2002 Honda Civic
  By Munchkin - June 22 - 10:00 am

  Fun to drive. Terrible on uphill freeway entrance. If you drive fast watch the tranny fluid level it burns up FAST!! thats $3500 i wish i didnt have to spend Honda said "Its not a Race Car" when they replaced the tranny!! Got squished between 2 cars on the freeway and now the tailpipe drags on big bumps. Watch that front bummper youll lose it in a big DIP. Shes been broken into TWICE !

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  brunis civic - 2003 Honda Civic
  By bruni - June 22 - 10:00 am

  This is a good car but poor seating for a 6 footer. The worst design for vents . It blows in your face with no lower vents. Fix these things and you wil get tens!

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  First impressions - 2008 Honda Odyssey
  By Off A Cough - June 21 - 9:54 pm

  We lost our 2007 Caravan Special Edition to another driver who didnt understand the word "stop". While Ive always felt Chrysler wins hands-down in the innovation department, I was leery of purchasing a 2008 model due to this being the first year of a major overhaul. The 2008 also lost some aesthetic points that it once had over the Ody (IMHO). The Ody wins hands-down in interior quality. The leather is nicer, the seats are more comfortable, and the fit and finish is better (but still not perfect). The Ody is still breaking in, so too early to tell on mileage. Acceleration is smooth. The vehicle is larger inside and out compared to Chrysler, so watch your parking/garage issues.

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  My Accord Stinks - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Lorraine - June 21 - 9:20 pm

  Since buying my Accord in Oct 2002 I have had a terrible sulfur odor. It seems to be worse during the winter. The catalytic converter was replaced at just over 3000 miles. The dealership discounts the odor to California emissions since the car was made there. I had always heard how great Hondas were. I doubt that I would ever buy another Honda. I also have complained about my brakes. The car is going back in for the second time to have the brakes repaired.

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  Honda Pilot - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By Brad Seiter - June 19 - 2:20 pm

  Solid vehicle, interior componentry is superior to other vehicles in its class.