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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  Actual owner review - 2005 Honda Accord
  By Gemini8801 - May 29 - 2:00 am

  This car is simply amazing. Everything from the leather seats to the XM radio is wonderful. The performance from the 4 cyl. is more than adequate, no need to spend extra for the v6. A complete pleasure to own and drive.

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  Love at first sight - 2008 Honda Civic
  By FD - May 28 - 9:46 pm

  Ive only had my Honda LX for 2 weeks. The moment I sat down in it and put my hand on the 5 speed shifter I fell in love. On my first trip I got 37 mpg and since I have gotten 44 and 45 mpg. I drive conservatively about 60 -65 mph. I have always bought Toyota but couldnt find a 5 speed in my color and thought Id look at the competition. Glad I did. Beautiful car. It came with a slight problem with the am radio reception but Im getting that repaired at the dealer. Dont drive the civic five speed or you wont be able to turn it loose. I had a Toyota Supra and this car is just as much fun to drive and I find myself looking for an excuse to drive it.

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  Good Car - 1998 Honda Accord
  By DJ - May 28 - 10:00 am

  Ive driven Honda since 1979 and have put over 200,000 miles on all 5 Ive owned. This car is by far better refined than ever before. However, I have had some small problems the check engine light related to the new in 98 LEV emissions. I have 91,000 on this one and am going for 300,000. There is no doubt it will make it. It runs the same as the day I bought it.

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  2002 Honda Civic Ex 4dr - 2002 Honda Civic
  By luvmyhonda - May 28 - 10:00 am

  Although I have only had my Civic for a few weeks, I am really impressed with this car. It is a good balance between comfort, economy and performance. This car will certainly not win a drag race but even with the a/c on it still has enough power to keep me happy, not to mention that on my first road trip it managed to get almost 41 mpg! The ride is supple and well controlled. The steering is nimble and the turning radius is short. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly and does not bog down or search between o/d and 4th while ascending a hill. The interior is laid out well and feels like good quality to the touch.

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  So far so good - 2002 Honda Accord
  By henry007 - May 28 - 10:00 am

  Im reaching my 100 miles odometer and everything seems pretty cool. Im learning how to use the "D3" and "D4" automatic gear , so at freeway always use D4 and once I get out of it I change to D3... Is that how its used ? The only thing Im going to buy pretty soon is a steering wheel cover to make it a little bit thicker. Is the "granitize process" recommended ? P.S. I just hope Honda keeps this body style a couple of more years so that It keeps its value. (Civics have a new body style) What alarm system do you recommend for this car in the aftermarket ?

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  Best car ever!! - 2007 Honda Fit
  By haide - May 28 - 12:53 am

  This car is the best car ever!! If I was rich and drove an Aston Martin I would still drive this car!! This car is perfect for your kids first car, college students, and people on a budget like me!! I am a single working mother and this car Fits me and my lifestyle!

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  A fun car. - 2005 Honda Element
  By WV owner - May 27 - 10:50 pm

  The Element was a great little car. I love the no carpet....great for hauling for my yard work, and great if you have a dog. The seats being water-proof is a plus. Took parents on vacation....plenty of room. Enormous head room....easy to drive. Great pick up on the highway.

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  Honda Ethics - 1999 Honda Odyssey
  By Mary F - May 27 - 10:26 am

  I bought my Odyssey Van new in 1999. It has been a great vehicle, with 2 exceptions, both noted in reviews here and elsewhere. The transmisssion: went out just over 75000 miles the first time I have had three in all. The rear sliding door on the passenger side has never worked properly. After many excuses from the dealer, we closed it for good. Too many reviews here cite the same problems. Honda knew this, and ethically speaking,should have lifted the mileage restriction on recall. These problems had nothing to do with mileage, but with production. The transmission was a big expensive lemon, as was the door. Quality companies stand behind their products. Not this time.

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  Happy Customer! - 2005 Honda Civic
  By MelissaW - May 26 - 10:01 pm

  I have owned this vehicle for a few months now and I have had absolutely no problems. I purchased the vehicle with 53,000 miles and I now have around 59,000. I have been averaging 32-35 miles per gallon (all highway).

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  Great decision - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By Vangoalot - May 26 - 9:23 pm

  This is our second minivan. You get to know which features that you use daily, and the Honda has them all plus more-- and it doesnt feel like youre driving a large vehicle. It is very peppy, and the features are well thought out. I seldom takeout the 2nd row seats, so having the 3rd row easily fold flat was a big deal to us. Comfort in the 2nd row plus the extra jump seat just made sense! My wife and I seriously compared the Sienna and Chrysler Town & Country, and also looked at the other competitors but the Honda won hands down. I dont have small children, but the design makes sense. It still has plenty of room to haul, but it feels more like a luxury car (well, it is!) KUDOS, HONDA!