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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  My third Accord LX 5-speed in a row... - 2007 Honda Accord
  By Lannie - May 10 - 7:20 pm

  I suppose at some point I could drive something other than an Accord... but why? As the saying goes, "If it aint broke, dont fix it." Im a middle- aged lady, and I have three priorities when considering a vehicle: Reliability, reliability, and reliability. When I get in my car and turn the key, I want it to work. Flawlessly. Every time. For the past eight years, my Accords have done exactly that; so, I leased another one. (I believe this is what the youngsters call a "no-brainer".) I waited an extra two days so that my dealer could find me one equipped with a five-speed manual, which I love. I still get a kick from actually DRIVING a car; especially a really nice one like the 2007 Accord.

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  My 01 Accord EX V6 - 2001 Honda Accord
  By Carlos - May 10 - 5:16 pm

  I love my car. I have had no problems with her in almost my year of ownership. I have been across country twice and she runs just as good as she did when i drove off the lot. Hondas are #1!!!

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  What a disappointment! - 2000 Honda Odyssey
  By soon a honda-ex - May 10 - 10:00 am

  Two years later, its been back to the dealer 8 times for auto door problems, 3 times for a consistent pull to the right, and 3 times for shuddering brakes. It has all of 24,000 miles. They have replaced the brake pads, rotors, and drums and the entire electronic system in the doors. They sent a district engineer to look at it and kept it a week two separate times without really fixing all the problems. The brakes still have a shudder. Beware of Honda Care, they refused to buy it back! It misses the Texas Lemon Law by a technicality. I have a 15- year old Camry that has had fewer problems than this van. What a disappointment!

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  Almost perfect - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By racerx2k - May 10 - 10:00 am

  Weve had our CR-V for a few weeks and its been great!! Great fuel economy, good handling (for a mini-ute), solid construction. We had a Grand Vitara as a loaner car while our other car was in the shop, and it was a HUGE difference. Even with the V6 it felt less powerful than the CR-V.

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  Fantastic! - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By vlr - May 10 - 10:00 am

  Great looks and fits the family and our gear!

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  pilot - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By pltlver - May 10 - 10:00 am

  this is a exellent vehicle. pilot rules! ride, handling and comfort are first class.

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  Love my Honda! - 2001 Honda Accord
  By boisedogmom - May 10 - 10:00 am

  This is my fourth Honda automobile, and it is the best one yet. The name Honda is not often synonymous with luxury, but there are not many things I would wish for that this car doesnt have. Add to that, the reliability and price that Honda is famous for, and you get one excellent automobile. The addition of the V-6 engine as an option is great, and this one definitely delivers. Mine is a lease, and Ill definitely be thinking of keeping it at the end, because I know it will run, and run well, for years to come.

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  More car than I expected - 2003 Honda Civic
  By adscurry - May 10 - 10:00 am

  This car is not what I expected. It is more powerful than I expected and far more fun to drive. Even with 3 adults and the air on I have more than enough power for highway driving. Dash blue lights, with some digital read outs, are beautiful and climate control works great. I am 6 2" but find it has plently of head and leg room. I enjoy the driving experience and how slowly the gas gauge drops. I have never owned a small car but after adjusting to sitting low to the ground, I am completely confortable. Lots of safety features, a smooth ride, and loaded with options without adding any to the sticker.

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  Great Car.. Few Problems - 2002 Honda Accord
  By MetallicaD - May 10 - 10:00 am

  The car is great, but I have had a few problems that Honda cant explain. My SRS light comes on randomly. The dealer says that the leather on the passenger seat is TOO thick and its effecting the functionality of the airbag sensor on the passenger side. Also, had an ignition cylinder problem. Resolved with service, but still. Anyone else having similar problems? Let me know.. Other than these, the car is great!

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  Wow, now this is a car! - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Greg - May 10 - 3:46 am

  I am so happy i went for the Honda Accord over the Mazda6 and Toyota Corolla/Camry. Just a cut above the rest. The dependibilty of honda made this an easy decision, retains value compared to any other sedan. I expect to hold onto this vehicle for several years and keep most of its value. Feels so comfy and cozy. Rides like a gem! Radio (AM/FM - reception... NOT CD/Audio system) is only notable problem... and slight at that (only noticed when volume levels are up over 80%). I love this car, extended the the full warranty.. but probably didnt need to! Thanks Honda for a GREAT CAR! 23/Male California. Previous cars include 92 Chevy Cavalier, 92 Nissan Maxima, 94 Ford escort, 99 Nissan Exterra.