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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  Outstanding, Quality,and Performance - 2000 Honda Accord
  By ChrisfromKy. - May 30 - 10:00 am

  I will simply say this is best midsize sedan on the road, bar none, Toyota Camery cant touch this. Very quite ride, strong V6 power,lots of room inside, Solid,Comfortable ride.

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  my first honda - 2004 Honda Accord
  By honda in ok - May 30 - 10:00 am

  After test driving many cars I couldnt get over the solid feel of the Accord, I was very impressed with the smooth powerful performance of the V-6, the choice of materials for the interior are top notch for anything in the price range.I only have 4k mile so far but have been very pleased.The dealer treated me very well,I went in with some fair numbers and there was no usual games.

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  Loves Honda - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Flex - May 30 - 10:00 am

  Make newer models with autolock whenever in motion. ONLY open if completely stop.

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  Great Car - 2005 Honda Accord
  By ekikp2 - May 30 - 10:00 am

  Was very impressed with the power for the 240hp engine and the ride is Honda. Gas mileage is good and after owning a 330 Beamer this car is alomost as good. FWD has some steering torque but nav system is great.

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  Best Accord yet!!! - 2005 Honda Accord
  By Rio - May 30 - 10:00 am

  I bought 2005 accord 2 weeks ago and im very happy. I really enjoy driving it. I have owned a lot of diferent cars and this car is just amazing.I Wonder how Honda makes profit on this car with all the standard equipment. I love he interior, it looks great. I recommend this car to everybody that are uncertain, test drive one and you will see for your self. Thank you Honda for a great car.

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  Excellent sedan needing very few tweeks - 2007 Honda Civic
  By K5LDB - May 30 - 7:06 am

  Overall this is an excellent car. On an 800 mile trip visiting my daughters I got 38.9mpg at 65-70. To me thats excellent mileage with only 1275 total miles so far. Its noticeably smoother and quieter than the Lancer Ralliart I sold. For what its intended to be it handles and performs well. Its a good value in its class. After looking at Sentras and Corollas the Civic just beat them in design, both inside and out.

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  Extremely impressed - 1998 Honda Odyssey
  By jaw - May 29 - 11:04 pm

  Super van, very reliable, only two parts broke over 11 years of constant use: starter motor and a cast iron header pipe cracked, both rare. Our van has 322,000kms, or over 193,000miles, with super Honda v-tec 2.3 liter engine: good low end torque for its size, and great power up top if you need it (150 horse). Its much lighter than other vans so it outperforms even 3.0 liter Nissans and other vans. I get over 30 miles per gallon highway, but run hard tires and 0W-30 amsoil. With a tranny cooler Ive towed all across North America. It has lots of life left, it handles very nicely for a van too, much better than any other Ive ever driven. Like a car. Great small van, ahead of its time.

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  First Car Purchase - 2007 Honda Fit
  By Tim Mendoza - May 29 - 9:48 pm

  I love driving my 07 Honda Fit Sport 5AT. I gets great gas mileage & can park anywhere

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  my first honda :0) - 2006 Honda Accord
  By melissa - May 29 - 7:52 pm

  This is my first ever Honda and I have to say that so far I have NO regrets. I have always owned a Toyota and although I love Toyota, I love Honda as well! I bought this Accord with 38,000 miles on it and it rides like a dream. I love the 6 disc CD changer and the the control features in the middle are easily accessible, which was a problem in my Camry, I had to reach farther to change my radio stations. I also love the controls on the steering wheel! Awesome!! Very comfortable ride. Hugs the road. Ive gotten tons of compliments on my Accord and most importantly my kids love it, too!!

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  My favorite toy in the box - 2006 Honda S2000
  By randy t-texas - May 29 - 11:01 am

  I have never had more "fun" in any car I have ever driven. I had a MG-B in my late teens, and I loved the car but hated all the issues. This is my MG that runs. Have a rough day at work? Just go out, hop in and drop the top. Even if it is to only go to Starbucks for a brief break, it will put a smile on your face. When I do get out of town, get a little back road thing happening, its a go-cart on steroids. It handles like my Ducati motorcycle, just with 4 wheels. I can honestly say, when it comes to the bang-for-bucks ratio, I have never been more pleased with a car purchase.