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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  Second Element, Second Car bought new - 2008 Honda Element
  By pepsicolacat - November 16 - 5:27 pm

  I own a 2005 element ex awd which has a four speed automatic. The 2008 ex awd has five speed automatic which gets better gas mileage than a five speed manual. I average 20-21 on the 05 if I drive 80 to 85mph on the freeway. I averaged 24mph on a all freeway trip averaging 90mph driving from Columbus to Dayton.

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  Surprisingly Sporty - 2006 Honda Accord
  By ntimmerman - November 16 - 3:20 pm

  I spend six to eight hours per day in my car. I bought the Accord LX V6 because of the reliability ratings and fuel efficiency. Was I ever surprised at the performance! The V6 has plenty of zip, and responds well even at interstate speeds. The 17" wheels give it a very sporty appearance. The design is solid, and the ride comfortable. I strongly recommend the Accord! The performance, value, and features are the best on the market.

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  Best sports car for $30k - 2007 Honda S2000
  By hadeed - November 16 - 2:07 pm

  This is my second Honda S2000. I used to own a Silverstone model year 2004. I sold the Silverstone to a friend and bought a New Formula Red model year 2007. Both cars have been daily drivers. I live in Michigan and drive my car all year round...including snow. The S2000 is simply bullet proof. With snow/winter tires on it, it handles even the worst days in winter and Ive never been stuck. With proper summer tires its a champ at the racetrack. All this and I still average 24mpg mixed city/hwy, and about 29-30mpg on the highway. Honestly, this car is the most fun for the money, period.

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  JUNK! Sorry I bought it... - 2007 Honda Odyssey
  By GrumpyHondaOwner - November 16 - 11:58 am

  Bad transmission. Need a torque converter, and so far dealer and Honda refuse to help. Van is still under warranty. Also had steering pump replaced. Doors do not work properly. Pinging engine. Honda rep told me that the company does not take into consideration what customers write about their vehicles online. Maybe they will care after potential buyers read the numerous bad reviews of the Odyssey.

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  This thing has got - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By kcvano - November 16 - 2:00 am

  We just Just love our Honda. I have a Ford Freestar company car and there is no comparing the the two.

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  Osdessy not my car - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By jpreif - November 16 - 2:00 am

  I have found the the Montana is a better car to drive than the Odessy. The Gas mileage is 25% better in the Montana. This will be my last Honda.

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  Best Vehicle I have Owned - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By larryB - November 16 - 2:00 am

  I have owned 2 other van models - a Nissan and a Toyota. The Odyssey is much better in every category. Power, Handling, Seating Configs, Quality Control, and great Gas Mileage.

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  Great Deal - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By lamb - November 16 - 2:00 am

  After spending 3 hours at a Toyota dealership we went to Honda and bought the Odyssey in 15 minutes for dealer invoice! Toyota was not willing to go below MSRP and the car had no power seats/leather seats ect... We got a great car for a great price!

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  Accord LX Sedan - 2001 Honda Accord
  By Lakota - November 16 - 2:00 am

  We had a great experience both with the car and our dealership. We had visited 4 other dealers, but the professionalism and friendliness was not on par with the Honda Dealer. We found an outstanding certified Honda Accord that fit our budget.

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  The Ride - 2004 Honda Accord
  By blank - November 16 - 2:00 am

  powerful,comfortable and quiet. :)