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 car, but... - 2009 Honda Civic
  By Sygma - November 21 - 3:53 pm

  I bought my 2009 LX 4DR in October 2008 and have been very pleased with the cars performance and economical aspects. However, at 9,800 miles the front wheels began making squeaking sounds, rolling forward or back, whether or not the brakes were applied. When I took the car to the dealer, the service writer said the brakes were WORN OUT. Those squeaking noises are the brake sensors indicating a need for brake pad change. Now, Ive owned many new cars in my life but I cant recall EVER having to change disc brake pads at 9,800 miles. Brakes are not covered under warranty, so I paid $269 for new brakes. Where is the low cost of ownership Honda claims? Honda Customer Service was no help.

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  Truth in advertising? - 2004 Honda Civic
  By Liszt - November 20 - 12:20 pm

  I like the car a lot. Not a lot of power, but solid. The sticker says 47/48 mpg but I average 38-42 mpg consistently. I cant imagine how these other owners are getting over 50 mpg unless they are driving only downhill and with no wind resistance... I wish I really got 47/48 mpg as it says on the sticker. I really baby the car and am aware how to obtain the best mileage possible, but it just doesnt happen.

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  My Review of the Element - 2004 Honda Element
  By Charmange Chii - November 19 - 2:00 am

  its a lot of fun in a small car

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  Odyssey rocks since Previa is gone - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By MetaJohn - November 19 - 2:00 am

  Odyssey is the King of the Class: Familyroom sedans. It has way more power than it needs unless you have a boat or travel trailer. For most of us thats not an issue, and wed love to trade 50 hp for 5 more MPGs! The Odyssey has great road feel, decent cornering, and will stop quickly enough. The TCS (Traction Control System) adds fractionally to road holding on bad roads but not nearly as much as either rear wheel or four wheel drive would. The sound system is very good. The heating and cooling work well, and quietly. The new front seat only seat heaters are a nice touch. The new leather seat covers and interior is very well appointed.

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  very happy - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By mycar1 - November 19 - 2:00 am

  i love the vechile. its like a van on the inside and looks like a truck. very comfortable and roomy. would like more gadgets......its basic.

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  Happy Honda Honcho - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By JIMBOO2 - November 19 - 2:00 am

  The Pilot is a very smooth ride with good interior room for up to 8 people. The Pilot is sure footed in even the more severe curves and has powerful takeoff abilities for merging and passing. I find the radio dials etc. a little busy but not too bad. On my test drive I told my wife that it was the nicest vehicle Ive ever driven and 6K later still fel that way.

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  Great car but lacking in a lot of areas - 2008 Honda Fit
  By v724510 - November 17 - 10:23 pm

  I was excited to get the fit but disappointed when I realized it maxed out at 35 mpg. In reality Im getting 25 mpg and I drive mostly on the HWY. I hear this will get better in time. Right now Honda is purposefully not making many Fits to drive demand. Most dealerships are charging an additional 1500 to every car because of this false demand Honda is creating. Also the Fit does not come with floor mats. When you buy them you cant just lay them down but you need to cut into the floor of the car. What were they thinking with that???!!! Overall I do like the fit. Its fun to drive and looks cool in my opinion. Its a Honda so I trust it will be reliable. Time will tell.

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  Great Car!!! - 1991 Honda Accord
  By jefooo - November 17 - 10:00 am

  My car has over 165K in miles and continues to have as much power as the first day I bought it, plus, it starts on the first crank. Mechanically sound vehicle! My friend has the same car with 318K in miles. It drives the same as mine. I am just compoletely impressed with my car and every other HOnda I have ever owned!

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  Solid and powerful, but pricey - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By DanJ - November 17 - 10:00 am

  I was surprised that the exterior looks more muscular and athletic than the most photos show. It has a more masculine look than the Highlander. The Pilot EX interior wasnt as attractive as the Highlander Limited - and the dealer-installed faux wood is about $600 extra. Still, the interior was comfortable - although perhaps more designed for a larger-framed person than is the Toyota. It was very roomy inside for a mid-sized - with the 2nd & 3rd row flat, the storage space was cavernous.

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  Nice Car! - 2001 Honda Civic
  By BD - November 17 - 10:00 am

  This is my first Honda after having 4 Corollas and although the ride in the Corolla is a bit smoother, they all rusted out! I dont see as many rusted Hondas. I live in the North East where the winters are harsh and lots of road salt is used. When I bought this car it was between this and a 2000 Eclipse. The Eclipse is a very sporty car and it was almost the same price as the Honda but it was not certified and the warranty I got with the Honda is exceptional. I have 2 years bumper to bumper and the 7 year powertrain warranty. Cant beat it. I wanted sporty but opted for practicality. Im old.