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 done at 56k - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Miffed - July 17 - 4:43 am

  The car is a safe car. I have been hit in it twice, first time with $10k worth of damage. Thats where it ends. The front bucket seats start to sag. Lumbar support doesnt help. Now my back hurts. The car has no headroom, Im 60" and my head touches the ceiling once im in a comfortable position. back seat is utterly useless. I know its a coupe, but it has NO ROOM. Oh yeah, at 56k miles, my transmission went. I dont race the car, use it mainly on the highway, never any heard accelerations, but the AT went out. Honda has done NOTHING to help me. Im out of the 3/36000 limited warranty, and they wont do a thing. Seriously doubt if a Honda is as reliable as they say

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  Best Car Ive Ever Had - 1994 Honda Accord
  By binky - July 17 - 2:00 am

  I cannot believe how reliable this car has been for me. Currently at 154,000 miles and I plan on keeping it for a while.

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  Like a Good Friend - 1999 Honda Civic
  By Like A Good Friend - July 17 - 2:00 am

  To say this car is reliable is an understatement. I have only needed to do regular maintenance to the car and it runs like a champ. For a sporty little car it keeps you happy on the freeway and at the gas pump. I wish someone made a truck as reliable and fun to drive as my civic ex. The only thing I dont like is that Im 6 and I dont fit so well in the seat. I have to lean the seat way back and scoot down a bit to feel comfortable. The radio sounds nice and the sunroof doesnt leak.

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  Practical, Cheap, Cool - 2003 Honda Element
  By DroolingBabyMarket - July 17 - 2:00 am

  Bought it last week. Love it. Paid 19.0k including destination charge. Was told that was 500 over invoice. Accessories are a rip-off, but the car is awesome. Great ride. Surprisingly good handling. If you buy a DX, you can have a sunroof installed. The car is mismarketed. Should be targeted at people like me, young professional couples with little families on a budget.

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  Simply a good car - 2000 Honda Civic
  By melanie - July 17 - 2:00 am

  This car has been fun to drive, very reliable, and fantastic on fuel economy.

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  crv great mini-ute! - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By crvnh - July 17 - 2:00 am

  in a few words-this car is great! its peppy, reliable, great in the snow especially with snow tires on it, its functional and safe! what more could someone want?

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  Remarkable Car - 1999 Honda Accord
  By Sundance - July 17 - 2:00 am

  We have owned a number of Accords and this is the best by far. It looks and drives like the day we bought it. Our servicing dealer has done all the normal PM and we have had no mechanical problems. It still has the original brakes! While we have drived a new V6 Accord and the Acura, they do not materially inprove on this car.

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  Pilot - More than just a pretty face! - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By BRAT - July 17 - 2:00 am

  ... Its rugged too! I think my Honda history tells it all... 2 Civics, 2 Accords, 1 Odyssey and now a Pilot and Im only 29 years old. If you are lucky enough to get your hands on one take it. I purchased my Pilot in June of 2002 and most recently, we added an Element to our brood!

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  Amazing Pilot - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Pablo - July 17 - 2:00 am

  This SUV is incredible. I look forward to driving it every weekend. It feels tall and solid on the road, has no rattles or sqeaks and takes me everywhere I want to go—on road or off road. It feels like I am driving a $50,000 luxury sedan, not a sport utility truck.

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  Great - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Pilot fever - July 17 - 2:00 am

  Best in its class. Wanted a Toyota Sequoia. For the money, the Pilot wins. Much better at the pump. Just wish it didnt have painted bumpers, one thing I liked about the 4Runner. and CRV. Rides like a Full Size SUV.