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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  Love it - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Idaho - December 9 - 2:00 am

  Have driven our Pilot 3000 miles and it has perfomed great in all situations. Previously had 3 Subarus. Like this much better. Easy to drive to ski areas on snow, hills and sharp curves. Solid and stable. Engine more than sufficient while still using regular. Moves along easily and comfortably at 75+. In town driving 18-19 mpg. Just completed 1600 mile trip to Oregon coast. Averaged 22.6 mpg. Seats comfortable even after a 10 hour day. Visability good in all directions.

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  Honda Civic vs Toyota Corolla - 2003 Honda Civic
  By Bett1e - December 9 - 2:00 am

  My actual test drive of the Honda Civic: The ride was loud, the acceleration was great past 50. The car hesitates at start up and pull off. The brakes seemed a little too soft (I actually was nervous). The styling looks almost good but it doesnt look so good that you know it automatically when you step to the car. The creme interior is just ugly. The interior looks cheap but the steering wheel is better than the Honda Accord. The sunroof doesnt add anything to the car. Based upon my test drive, I would definitely choose the Honda Civic over the Toyota Corolla

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  Impressed first time Honda owner - 2003 Honda Accord
  By AnthonyV - December 9 - 2:00 am

  Weve had our Accord EX for 2 weeks now. We went for a road trip through the Rockie mountains and even drove on unimproved dirt hi-ways. The car is extemely tight, no annoying noises while driving the rough roads, cd changer didnt skip a beat and the car road more smoothly than I anticipated after reading several complaints about the rough ride.We averaged 27.8 MPG on our 300 mile trip that weekend,cant wait to see what regular Hi-way driving gives us. Theres little road noise, even with the sunroof down. The navigation system is worth the money. I was suprised at how much information is at the tip of your fingers. Honda has done a great job here.

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  What a Difference !! - 2003 Honda Accord
  By JRIZZO - December 9 - 2:00 am

  I just turned in my 2000 Acura Integra LX (Lease was up). What a difference in the ride, Its like day & night. Sooo much smoother. I bought the car Feb 19, 2003 and I really love the car. The body style is fantastic. I recommend that when you get the car put a spoiler on the trunk (it dresses the car up a lot) & a wind deflecter for the moonroof (it cuts down on the in-coming wind noise big time)

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  Honda Accord vs Nissan Altima - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Bett1e - December 9 - 2:00 am

  I finally decided to test drive a Honda even though it has the simpliest styling on the planet. Everything about this test drive was PERFECT. The car accelerates well. It has all the features you want on a car. It is a nice car. The only problem is that it is not a HOT car. The Altima is hot but its features dont compare to the Accord. I definitely would choose the Accord over the Altima. The complaints about the Altima are brutal.

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  Considered for a Long Time - 2003 Honda Accord
  By stuntroad - December 9 - 2:00 am

  Was torn between an Accord and used Audi A6. I love the A6 styling but was concerned about the reliability despite Audis excellent "Certified" program. But, when I drove an A6 and V6 EX back to back I felt the EX is only about 10% behind the A6 in terms of satisfaction. And when I weighed in the known reliability (I have a 1985 Accord LX with 256,000 miles on it) I simply couldnt justify buying the Audi. The fit, finish, comfort and power of the 03 Accord are great. But, I HATE the styling. If it werent for the fact that I forget about it when Im behind the wheel because the driving experience is so nice, I never would have bought it. Its that ugly!

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  CR-V Rocks! - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By axe01 - December 9 - 12:46 am

  Space, size, and gas mileage! Wow! I get a whopping 28MPG in mixed city/ hwy driving! This SUV is smart, sexy, and smooth. Love the XM radio. My first Honda and I am sure not my last!

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  The Best Little Honda ever - 1998 Honda Civic
  By Rachael - December 8 - 7:29 pm

  I ran my little red 98 Honda civic dx into the ground. I was hoping it would last me until I graduated college but after almost 9 years its time had come...a piston broke in the engine which would have been twice as much as the car. She had a long run. She went through 5 break ins, 5 stolen radios, 2 mufflers and exhaust systems, 2 windshield replacements, 2 window cranks, 2 sideview mirrors, a starter, sparkplugs and 4 accidents one being with a 10-point buck at 70 mph. Although she shook when I got her to 80, she rode right along at 120. Although the interior and exterior wasnt anything fancy, she ran long and hard through thick and thin. RIP little Honda...best car ever.

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  Going Strong - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Satisfied - December 8 - 7:01 pm

  Best car Ive owned... period. Bought new, now has 96,000 miles and all Ive done is change tires, put in a new battery, change oil and filter regularly, and install a new set of brakes. Still feels tight and still fun to drive I have to remind myself how many miles Ive put on it. Mileage is good: 32-34 on the highway, 22-24 around town. Very practical: Ive carried 8 2x4s inside!

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  LOVE MY HONDA! - 2010 Honda Pilot
  By LLHH - December 8 - 12:50 pm

  This is my 3rd Honda Pilot and I wouldnt even think of buying any other brand. Ive never had any major work done on my other two and that makes this vehicle a major winner. More than just reliable. It handles wonderful, feel safe on the road and loaded with lots of extra goodies. If youre looking for luxury with a lot of safety and reliability, this is the vehicle for you.