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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  HONDA - a love/hate relationship - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By cvilla - October 16 - 1:37 pm

  I have owned 2 other hondas prior to this one and I am sad to say it is the black sheep of the bunch. As my family grew so did our need to move into a larger car than my 1996 civic. My old civics have been as reliable as nothing else Ive owned. The CRV seemed like a sure bet. My first year was trouble free as expected from a Honda. On our second summer the ac blew out! I thought I just had one of those RARE little problems and would probably never happen again. Just this Sept. my AC started to make those same sounds again before it blew up! My other civics 220000+ miles and no problems yet! I should have bought another civic! Honda made the best and worst cars Ive owned. I love/hate Hondas.

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  Practical and reliable - not bad looking - 2001 Honda Accord
  By Madison - October 16 - 12:10 pm

  Thinking of giving it to my daughter now, but this car has been "bullet proof". Did a lot of commuting the first few years and had no problems. Ride a bit stiff and noisy with Firestone tires, but very sure footed. Fit-and-finish from the factory was outstanding, much better than my Toyota. I agree with others that the brakes could have been made a bit better. If you can find a clean one - not necessarily mine - it would be a great used car!

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  The Best Ever - 1997 Honda Accord
  By Tober - October 16 - 10:00 am

  This has been our "second" car -- the other is a 5 series BMW, also a fine car. However, this Honda is without a doubt the best yet. For whatever strange reason, probably to compete in the SUV market, Honda no longer makes wagons. It is a shame. This car does everything, and more, that a owner could ever want. Comfort, pickup, space for dogs and or children and or adults and old folks, fuel economy and mileage range, great exterior and interior design, you name it, it has it and it does it. Dont have a clue, when it comes time, as to how to replace it.

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  The Best Vechicle Ive Ever Owned - 2003 Honda Element
  By Magick581 - October 16 - 10:00 am

  I absolutely love my Element! The interior is very spacious and comfortable.. great for long trips or just around town. The durable body style and build is definitely designed to withstand it all. It is also packed with neat assesories that you can add on. I especially enjoy the attachable interior curtains & tailgate cabana for us camping lovers. I rate it a 10 all around. Definitely the best vechicle Ive ever owned.

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  Classic wheels - 2003 Honda Element
  By Joe Smoot - October 16 - 10:00 am

  This is an impressive vehicle satisfying the SUV in Americans while considering fuel economy, classic styling, and simplicity in design.

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  My "Poor Mans" Hummer.........Love it. - 2003 Honda Element
  By "jack" frost - October 16 - 10:00 am

  The only problem Ive had....a 6 month wait for the 5 speed model, but it was worth the wait.Love everything about it,smooth drive,great soundsystem,and head-turning looks.Im obviously into the "ugly factor"in a big way as my 2 Shar-Peis just love to cruise around town...especially with the back window in the raised position.Id like a dollar for every time Ive been asked "is that the new Hummer"....Hey,its the Midwest,what can I say.

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  Element of Love - 2003 Honda Element
  By Waldon - October 16 - 10:00 am

  I went from a "99" Beetle to the 2003 Element and love driving it. Both cars drive alike so it was easy to adjust to. My friends love riding in the back seat because it sits high up so they can see out the front.

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  great car to drive....... - 2003 Honda Element
  By djs227 - October 16 - 10:00 am

  fantastic car/truck handles lke a car very roomie interior and very comfortable ride. If i had a worry it would be the exterior plastic moulding seems to me like something that will get scratched or marred and not be repairable. It has not happenned to me but it gives me that impression. I also would have taken the plastic moulding and had it go on the bottom half of the doos so it wouldnt look so "patchy".. I guess i had to say something not so positive about a car i absolutely enjoy drivin when you sit in the car it is like an oasis it is so roomie and you wouldnt think that by looking at the outside of the vehicle. Very good car to drive.

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  Own it and love it - 2003 Honda Element
  By LadyInPink22 - October 16 - 10:00 am

  I just purchased an Element a week ago and love to drive it. Ive overheard comments such as, "it grows on you" "is it a mini hummer" "it looks like an old woodie" "I didnt realize there was so much room"

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  excellent suv - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By doug d - October 16 - 10:00 am

  I went to german suv (mercedes)what a mistake constantly in shop for little problems. Our pilot is probably the best car we have owned with the only exception being our 94 acura legend.We also have a ford explorer, no comparison to the honda. I highly recomend the pilot you wont be dissappointed with this suv.