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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  The Eye Magnet - 2003 Honda Element
  By Lon777 - April 8 - 2:00 am

  When i first saw the Model X prototype, I couldnt care less if it went into production or not. Only when i started reading magazine reviews about it did i start becoming curious. Well, i went to the dealership; looked at it, test drove it and fell in love. This has been the most interesting car both i have ever owned. Who would have thought this little car gets more stares and comments than a Ferrari! I simply cant go anywhere without being stared at or somebody wanting to look at it. This car does everything right - steering, brakes, acceleration and load carrying. Fantastic investment for $19000.

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  Awesome! - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By bell - April 8 - 2:00 am

  My new Honda Pilot is wonderful - drives like a dream, plenty of power, and extremely comfortable. Many extra touches that make this a truly unique vehicle.

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  A - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By SavedFromDodge - April 8 - 2:00 am

  Thought I would never own a Minivan and purchased a Dodge Durango in 1999 for the 7 passenger seating. What a piece of garbage... I will NEVER buy another Dodge or domestic automobile. We own a 99 Accord V6 and now a 03 Odyssey with Entertainment and Leather. This VAN handles and performs very well, I think I am behind the wheel of our Accord. I drove em all (VANs) out there and nothing compared to the Odyssey. I got to sit in new Toyota Sienna at the local car show recently. Looks cheap and does not stand up to the Odyssey. The 3rd row seat is like 2 inches thick. Nice try Toyota ... but, not quite there yet.

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  I cant stay out of it!!!!!!! - 2003 Honda Accord
  By DARLING1 - April 8 - 2:00 am

  I traded in my 97 Accord LX (not a single problem!) out of pure greed after test driving the 2003 EX. The handle was flawless and the features were unbelieveable for the cost. I just purchased the car this week and I have already received so many compliments. I find myself making up reasons to take the long route to and from work! I love it!

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  Great Car - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Beatrice Mantock - April 8 - 2:00 am

  The 2003 Honda Accord is much improved from when I test drove the Accord in 2000. This car is well designed and a true joy to drive. The handling is very good and it has good acceleration. The price for what you get is also better than some of the other cars we priced. This car is a real joy.

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  Good car - 2000 Honda Civic
  By Honda - April 7 - 11:19 pm

  This is a good little car. There have been no problems with the car at all. The gas mileage is great, but only because it acceleration is somewhat slow. It would be a much better car if it had better acceleration and maybe ABS brakes. But overall it is a good car if you are looking for a good reliable car.

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  Got what I paid for! - 2009 Honda Accord
  By BigV - April 6 - 9:06 pm

  Yes, there is some road noise, however the suspension is firm to enhance the handling which is sporty. I actually like the firm ride and road feel which offers strong cornering and good tracking. I paid $23,300.00 for EX-L version with the 4 cylinder and Im extremely happy with the purchase. The interior is very roomy and offers good comfort. The Accord has a unique design that offers a sporty European look. I decided to go with the 4 cylinder for the fuel economy and sufficient 190 HP on a FWD. I compared to BMW 3 series and Lexus compact and decided to keep the $7,000 difference in my pocket. You can get more car but youll have to pay extra for it!

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  2008 Honda Accord Coupe Black Beauty - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Joe Mondello - April 6 - 9:00 pm

  This car is just plain "Awesome." I traded a 2003 G35 Coupe for this vehicle. I had some reservations about unloading my dream car, but it was well worth the trade. With the voice activated navigational system makes it even more of a luxury car than a sport vehicle. The handling, horsepower and smooth lines inside make it a dream to drive. Not a bad vehicle after all and we worth the investment. This vehicle turns head when driving down the highway and I am proud to be behind the wheel. Great Car!

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  Love It - 2000 Honda CR-V
  By Happy Honda Driver - April 6 - 6:27 pm

  No worries. Replaced tires and brakes, oil and windshield washer fluid ... and of course gasoline. Thats it. Like Timex, it just keeps on ticking. My husband wants me to get a new car, but I love my CR-V and dont want to change!

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  Fantastic Truck - 2008 Honda Ridgeline
  By Jedi - April 6 - 5:31 pm

  This truck is a fantastic value with the current Honda marketing program. This is my first Honda and I am very impressed with the product, they really thought outside the box when they designed this truck.