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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  Great little car - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Trent - November 23 - 7:48 am

  I previously owned a tuned 2003 Ford Mustang GT, but got this Civic because I was driving 70 miles round trip to work everyday. The civic gets great mileage, 35-40mpg on the highway. Unfortunately, Ive had to have the water pump and ac compressor replaced. But that was done under warranty, and other than oil changes, tire rotations and gas, I dont have to spend any money on her. The only downside is that there are some serious blind spots around the C pillars in the back that make it extremely difficult at times to change lanes. I love the two tiered instrument cluster and the Ipod jack. I wish she had more power, but I love the great mileage.

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  Bullet proof reliable - 2001 Honda Civic
  By habz24 - November 22 - 8:16 pm

  I bought my 2001 civic couple lx new. I bring my baby to the Honda hospital for every oil change and inspection required. The only thing Ive changed on my car in 8.5 years are wiperblades, not even a lightbulb. The suspension isnt the best, feel every bump pretty much, but completely bullet proof car.

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  First Honda - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By updating - November 22 - 1:47 pm

  Our Honda now has 53k and is over two years old. I dont understand the reviews stating poor performance. Ours has plenty of pickup. This isnt supposed to be a sports car. For the purpose of design, its hard to beat. The CRV would not get 30mpg with a V6. Better mileage than a Subaru Outback. The gearing is so good that power levels remain more than adequate. Im an ex-race car driver/ power enthusiast. The front brakes rattle on our dirt road. Rear pads needed replacing at 35k, tolerances too close causing corrosion and sticking with winter driving. Dont like center console. Front brakes still factory and otherwise, oil and filters only. Good snow performance with four studded winters.

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  Great truck - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By big guy - November 22 - 8:00 am

  It just runs great in all weather conditions and is fun to drive and is comfortable

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  The Honda E - 2003 Honda Element
  By DJWAK - November 22 - 2:00 am

  Im a weekend DJ who used to have a mid- size van to lug equipment around. Gas prices were starting to empty my pocket fast,I needed something smaller but everything I looked at that was smaller couldnt even hold enough equipment for a small wedding! I found the Element online one day and I knew that if it was big enough inside, Id end up buying one. Im 44 and this is the first car that I can say I love. It has everything I need.

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  Comfortable, safe, we love it! - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Idahomom - November 22 - 2:00 am

  Only a month ago, we went from a mammoth SUV to the Pilot -- great move! So far the Pilot has been fun to drive because its easy to maneuver and it responds well. Visibility is much better than in taller vehicles or air tunnel-designed cars. Inside the Pilot, changing from the third row to more cargo space is a breeze! The optional cargo mat protects the third row and rolls up easily when the third row is in use.

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  Best D*mn Minivan - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Gamecock Odyssey - November 22 - 2:00 am

  Simply the best version of the most practical car on the road.

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  Honda Pilot - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By Bob Roeller - November 22 - 2:00 am

  Vehicle is fun to drive, has plenty of legroom and plenty of power. I like the set up of interior - everything is easy to find and use. I like radio control and cruise controls on the steering wheel and the center console has both great support for drinks and great storage. I am concerned with both gas mileage (18.5 avg) and some hesitation on starting but with only about a 1000 miles so far, I havent had it back to the dealer yet. Overall - great car!

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  love it - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By clyde693 - November 22 - 2:00 am

  we were looking for a truck or big car to tow a pop up camper with. also to haul more than 5 in the pilot fit the bill to a t towing is fine at 3500lb and able to haul 6 kids and the dog in style.

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  My third Honda is great, too! - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By kidsintow - November 22 - 2:00 am

  Couldnt be a more perfect SUV for hauling kids and feeling safe and comfortable.