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:

• 

  97 Honda Accord LX - 5 Speed - 1997 Honda Accord
  By mlippysr - December 20 - 2:00 am

  This is an excellent car to drive. With a manual 5 speed, it has acceleration that can compete with the best. Very low maintenance and minimal manufacturers recalls.

• 

  Excellent Buy, Fun to Drive - 2003 Honda Civic
  By FrankStall0ne - December 20 - 2:00 am

  I walked into a Honda dealership, and decided to test drive a Civic EX Coupe. I hated it. I couldnt believe the lack of power, lack of amentities, and high sticker price the car held. As I began to walk away disappointed, my salesman suggested the Si. I wasnt too keen on the clumsy post-modern hatchback design, but once I drove it I couldnt say No. The car has tons of torque, an incredibly solid front end, a smooth shifter, and a sexy sporty interior. I also feel that the car is a steal for what im paying - $3000 out of pocket, and $200 a month for 4 years.

• 

  A Well Oiled Machine - 2003 Honda Accord
  By grillmanaccord - December 20 - 2:00 am

  I bought my Accord to replace a leased 2000 VW Passat. The Accord doesnt ride as well or feel as solid as the Passat did, But I know it wont fall apart Like the Passat did. Too bad because VW could rule the world if they had the quality and reliability most Japanese brands have.

• 

  great SUV - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Lori - December 19 - 4:42 pm

  Going from a 91 civic to this of course was a huge step up. This is a great SUV. It took everything we gave it on the test drive, went over 90 mph and took it semi-off road, for a non- off road SUV, it did pretty good. The heated seats are great. But i love most that you can feel the power behind it. Some SUVs i tested couldnt get out of their own way.

• 

  2 Months with New CR-V - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By CR-V Owner - December 19 - 11:33 am

  Pros: Ride, handling, navigation and fuel economy. Before buying car I thought power is not enough on the highway but with little bit of acceleration you have the power you want. I am not a sort of fast driver so power is more than enough for me. The car handles very smoothly and it is comfortable. Road noise is like other good car. I cant understand why some people are talking about it. Interier is really nice, all the buttons on the steering lightup when head lights on.

• 

  The best SUV for the price - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By Sam - December 18 - 10:06 pm

  I was very much set to buy a Volvo XC90 or an Acura MDX for my wife. I decided to listen to a friend and test drive the Pilot. I drove it on the highway and on the streets. I drove it at high speed (over 90/mph)and curvy roads. I drive a lot for work, I was very very impressed by this SUV. It handles well. You have a good view of the road. The ride is smooth and most importantly she loves it!

• 

  Great Little SUV - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By JohnK - December 18 - 7:33 pm

  Easy to drive and economical. No problems in two years of local driving. This is our third Honda and I would recommend it to anyone.

• 

  Reliable Vehicle - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Cheryl Hontz - December 18 - 6:15 pm

  Is a dependable, well-built vehicle. Can feel the safety in driving the car. Is a heavy vehicle and feels like it can sustain the normal fender-benders. Very comfortable to drive, good pick-up and driver control. Turning radius better than expected. Would recommend to others.

• 

  I Love my Element - 2005 Honda Element
  By Rick H - December 18 - 4:35 pm

  Cons of the Element are few but may be a killer for some. There is not a abundence of power. The 4 cyl gives enough power to survive, but not to thrive in high speed take offs in very busy traffic. Pick up & go is best when swiching off overdrive and running thru the gears(Auto version). This is an old school trick almost nobody uses any more. The plactic (just like out side panels) under the seat belts wears from the belt connector rubbing against it. There is no way to make it look new again or bring the color back to normal.

• 

  Wheres the MPG? - 2009 Honda Accord
  By sunmoonroof - December 18 - 2:46 am

  My second Accord. The reliability and resale value are unbeatable. The ride is firm, but it has a sporty feel to it. The seats are quite comfortable. I love the sound system that adjusts its volume to the speed of the car. The center of the dash is very cluttered. Driven the car 5000+ miles and still have to take my eyes off the road just to tune the radio. Too many buttons. The MPG is a major disappointment. Bought the 4 cylinder hoping for the advertised 30 MPG. Not even close. 26 is the best Ive ever achieved; after 2 straight hours of interstate driving. Usually 22-24, with a low of 21 MPG. Sad for a 4 cylinder.