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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  After 8000 miles - 2009 Honda Fit
  By Jon from Milwaukee - August 3 - 1:15 pm

  I thought I would submit this review after putting about 8,000 miles on my Fit Sport Manual. Mileage during the first 7 months of ownership is averaging 37mpg (this is actual mpg, not the gauge). Power and acceleration is very good with the manual transmission. The ride is definitely harsh on the pot-holed Wisconsin roads. I still love driving this car. The seats though, are a bit too firm on the front bolster, and irritate your thighs on long rides.

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  Best Car in Class - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Honda Fan - August 3 - 11:29 am

  This is my second Honda Accord, I have owned 5 Honda products (Acura Legend, TL, Odyssey are others). This car is solid with a great ride and a bit of sportiness for a sedan of this class. The acceleration is what really stands out - step on the gas (regular!) and this car flies. TI believe it is quicker than my 2008 Acura TL off the line. Im in sales and used the car to transport customers and factory people. Plenty of room in the front and back seats and the trunk. Only two minor complaints. 1. Gas pedal is a little too sensitive. Takes some getting used to. 2. Road noise is slightly high. But I was driving an Acura Legend before this and got spoil

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  Accord Feedback - 2006 Honda Accord
  By fargan1212 - August 3 - 10:05 am

  I went from a 2001 Accord V-6 to a 2006 Accord V-6. Wow. Ride noise is almost non-existent! Car is very responsive and power is there when you need it. Handling is great. This car is actually fun to drive and it doesnt seem like work! I dont get tired of driving this thing. Stereo is VERY nice for stock. Put a K&N air filter in it and got an increased 40 miles per tank of gas! Truly a wonderful car to buy if you have to drive and you want the comfort of an expensive luxury car without the huge price tag! (My other car is an 05 F-150)

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  Great ride , Honda all the way. - 1999 Honda CR-V
  By dar - August 3 - 6:01 am

  I bought this CRV 2 months ago with over 160,000 kms. I had no fear as a co- worker has one with 344,000 kms on hers. Suspension is great, rides so smooth, seats are comfortable, Handles nicely, and gas mileage is much better than I expected, better than the protege5 that I just got rid of. Looking forward to the Newfoundland winter to try out the AWD. Will never be without a Honda again. Superior quality, a name to trust.

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  Honda Element - 2003 Honda Element
  By miataguy90 - August 3 - 2:00 am

  Just bought the Element in time for the snow storm in Charlotte..had no problems getting around town. Excellant stereo system, nice interior. Spilled coffe the 2nd day in the floor, did not worry ..wiped right up, no stains..yeeha ..and I am not the targeted consumer, go figure Honda!

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  BEST SUV FOR MONEY - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By yl - August 3 - 2:00 am

  GOOD RIDE - SOFT BUT YOU FEEL THE ROAD, GOOD ACCELERATION ON REGULAR GAS, GOOD STANDARD FEATURES.

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  May be simple, but well thought out - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Dancy - August 3 - 2:00 am

  After much research we decided to purchase the Pilot. It has great safety features, and enough seating if our kids want to bring a friend along. The rear DVD can be enjoyed and does not block the rear view. The ride is just smooth enough and still very sporty feeling. This suv handles great and feels very tight. With the recent downpour here in So-Cal, we really appreciated the well placed and well thought out controls. Things are where you need them. The window defroster works so fast and the climate control is wonderful.

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  fun car - 2003 Honda Civic
  By siguy - August 3 - 2:00 am

  This car is a blast to drive. It is not a sports car, but handles well and is a lot of fun.

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  Why no manual tranny in 4 door V6? - 2003 Honda Accord
  By JTS - August 3 - 2:00 am

  Great car. Rides beautifully. V6 delivers tons of power. No rattles. Put a Lexus badge on it and it would sell for $40K.

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  2003 honda accord ex 4 - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Ed - August 3 - 2:00 am

  I just recently bought my accord 3 weeks ago. The new look and stlye and features are the car is best in its class.