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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  Worth every penny - 2005 Honda Accord
  By Chief&Jay - September 15 - 6:00 am

  This car is exactly what we were looking for in a mid size sedan. It has enough room for passengers, all of the stuff for us techno geeks, some luxury, the power, efficiency, build quality, and residuals that we were looking for.

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  it is worth 19K! - 2003 Honda Element
  By mn2063 - September 15 - 2:00 am

  its a realy nice car it is worth the 19K!

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  Better than a bimmer - 2003 Honda Element
  By Ray dogs - September 15 - 2:00 am

  I cant believe how much I love this car! It has to be the most I have ever received for my money. I have had BMWs, Ford Explorers, they dont even come close to the Element. The interior room is monsterous. It corners like it is on rails. Everytime I get out of it I just stare at it and it brings a smile to my face. I am 29 and it is so fun to drive.

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  Everything I wanted and more - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Veloslave - September 15 - 2:00 am

  The Ford has a couple more bells and whistles like the rear sensors and handling control but the Odyssey has better power, less noise and lets face it... what would you trust more on a cross country trip for reliability? The Navigation was a must for me since I am a Realtor. I own a 2002 Windstar and like it too but it, like its predecessors has had plenty of trips to the shop for little things... heck, it didnt even make it off the lot the first day without issues. I still like the Windstar but think the Honda is the best choice.

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  The Best all purpose SUV - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By EAGLES - September 15 - 2:00 am

  I just bought my 2004 Honda Pilot. I had a 2002 Ford Explorer 4x4 Limited (I hated it). The Ford was junk. The Honda Pilot is typical Honda. Well built, well engineered and I am confident that I wont be in the dealer every other week, as I was with the Ford. If you want a really good SUV, buy this vehicle. Most dealers get full MSRP. Dont worry, it is worth it and still less then equally equipped Ford, GMC, Toyota, etc. LOVE IT FOREVER.

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  car owner - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By hamid - September 15 - 2:00 am

  Excellent what can I say?

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  Honda EX Review - 2003 Honda Accord
  By COL - September 15 - 2:00 am

  This is my first venture into the Honda products and I made a good choice. I really enjoy the performance of this vehicle and the ride is great. I probably dont have enough miles yet (1600) to evaluate the economy. My two biggest disappointments are (1) The adjustable/telescopic steering wheel doesnt leave enough room to get ones legs through---and I am only 59"; and (2) I am disappointed that the door locks do not automatically lock when engaging the transmission and unlock when shifting to Park. Other than those two things, I cannot find anything else to complain about.

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  A solid car - 2007 Honda Fit
  By Rick - September 15 - 1:26 am

  I have been looking forward to Honda bringing over this car since its arrival to the rest of the world since 2002. The Fit is Hondas number 1 selling car everywhere else. It is a solid machine that handles very well and has enough low end torque for a Honda to get up and go quickly. There is tons of room as well and an upscale interior. Gas mileage is decent.

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  Sweet ride - 1999 Honda Accord
  By Anthony - September 14 - 2:59 pm

  Its a great car, has great pick up an handling. Was purchased for my daughter about yr an half ago for transportation to school an getting around. Now shes going to college in anot her state soon. Truly a great car

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  Sweet ride - 1999 Honda Accord
  By Anthony - September 14 - 2:59 pm

  Its a great car, has great pick up an handling. Was purchased for my daughter about yr an half ago for transportation to school an getting around. Now shes going to college in anot her state soon. Truly a great car