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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  Totally Unbelievable!!! - 2005 Honda S2000
  By Paule - September 9 - 2:04 pm

  Ever since I was kid I always hoped to by a Porsche 911 as my dream car...That all changed after I purchased my 05 S2000! The car is TOTALLY UNBELIEVABLE in every way. And when I see other S2000 owners that have previously plopped down the mega- bucks for a 911, and turn around and sing the praise of the S2000, well it makes me really, really happy! Like a Cheshire cat, I might add! When the engine hits 6500k it takes on an all together different personality. Its a little bit scary, in a real cool way. Its like getting 2 cars in one. Top speed is supposed to be 150. Ive had mine up to 118 and it was more stable than anything Ive ever driven, (including a 911). Ill never sell it.

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  You Want This Vehicle - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By RobertM - September 9 - 10:44 am

  I owned a 2006 Chevy Equinox and I traded up for this vehicle. I definitely traded up! The Chevys interior left a lot to be desired and after a while I grew tired of the exterior as well. With my new CR-V I feel like Im definitely driving in style. My main goal was to increase my mpg average without sacrificing space and comfort. I have a very large dog and thought a car might get better mileage, she would not have her own space. With the CR-V I get car style mileage and SUV style space. The perfect combination. If youre looking for that combination as well as great interior and exterior style and finish, then youve found the one to get. Ive had it for two weeks now and have ZERO regrets.

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  perfect pilot - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By horsegirl - September 9 - 10:00 am

  Ive had nothing but great experiences with this vehicle, its eyecatching and fulfills all expectations. Its a very "easy" vehicle. I traded a 2000 Accord V-6 Coupe for this and havent regretted my decision even once. Manuverability is never a problem, there is great visibility and turning radius is great getting into parking spots.

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  Satisfied Customer - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By kds177 - September 9 - 10:00 am

  I test drove several vehicles and fell in love with the Honda CRV. Perfect size, easy for my little girl to get in. Seats tumble forward for loading. Nice quite ride and fun to drive! Traded in my minivan and Im so glad I did!

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  2003 Odyssey Minivan - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By moretz - September 9 - 10:00 am

  Had to bring in for service of alignment. Aligment is still below par. I am very disappointed in the steering. Van pulls to the right constantly.

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  2002 Civic SI review - 2002 Honda Civic
  By Stonefield0920 - September 9 - 10:00 am

  I have owned this vehicle for just over 6 months now and I simply find it a pleasure to drive everyday. I use the car for commuting (approx. 50 miles per day) and it is wonderfully spacious for a hatchback when I go shopping on the weekends. The interior is very simple yet tastefully appointed (the bucket seats may take a little time to get used to) and all major options (power windows/locks, CD player, power moonroof, etc.) are standard. I usually average between 29- 31 miles per gallon (combination of city and highway driving), on regular octane gasoline.

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  It is what it is... - 2003 Honda Civic
  By kujhawk80 - September 9 - 10:00 am

  Overall, I am pleased. I had owned a 99 Civic Ex coupe for 2.5 yrs and switched to a 6 cyl Jeep Wrangler. After only 4 months of owning the Jeep I found my favorite hangout to be the service dept, so I decided to trade. The civic is much as I had remembered: an affordable, sporty, fuel efficient auto with generic styling, especially the rear. The seats are comfortable, just needs some additional power to challenge the larger bolsters. Overall, it does the job and then some... reliable, peppy, and fun...you wont be let down.

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  Good car, but loud noise - 2003 Honda Civic
  By maomi - September 9 - 10:00 am

  I got my new civic EX sedan and like it so far. I drove an old 88 honda Accord and there are no AC and radio in it. Thats why I feel the difference immediately. Dont understand why there is only one cup holder for back seat people.

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  Honda Accord V6 Auto W/Navi - 2003 Honda Accord
  By radtech28 - September 9 - 10:00 am

  This car is excellent, its fun to drive, smooth on taking curvy lanes and very fast!

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  Love, Love, Love My 2004 Accord Cp - 2004 Honda Accord
  By KJ73 - September 9 - 9:13 am

  Ive owned Hondas for about 10 years now; starting out with a Del Sol, moving to Civic EX coupe, on up to my 2004 Accord Coupe EX-N, 6sp. I absolutely love my car: the get-up-and- go power of the V6 (throws me back periodically in first gear!), the easy to manage navigation system, the voice activation, the safety features and especially the XM radio. My fiance who is generally an American car-kind-of-guy cannot get over the power of the V6 in that coupe; its almost as though it has too much power. Not enough that Id be willing to give it up! :) Over all - there isnt a thing I would give up or change in this car!