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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  It has some inprovements to be made. - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Pasquales - March 26 - 2:00 am

  I sell real estate and I get a lot of compliments on the car. As a full time driver with 30-35 thousand miles a year on a car I am in this automobile a lot. There is a clunking sound when you turn corners, back up a distinctive shift clunk! I hate that about this car.The second thing I did not like was the navigation system was not up to date. Any street that is 5 years or more was indicated on the system, but new things are not. They tell me the disks are updated every 5 years. In a area where there are new subdivisions and it constantly grows you need more up to date CDÂ’s. On star gives live up to the minute information.

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  Accord - 2016 Honda Accord
  By Liz - March 23 - 5:21 pm

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  honda crv not comfortable - 2001 Honda CR-V
  By jim mahoney - March 22 - 2:00 am

  not comfortable, too loud

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  Engine Problems! - 2000 Honda S2000
  By bbsilver - March 20 - 2:00 am

  At least the 2000 and 2001 model have had a series of electrical and mechanical issues. Oil starvation, oil consumption, ECU failure, spark plugs backing out to name a few. Serious issues with bent valves as well. The problems are mostly quality control and design issues (some are driver error). Some of the problems lead to catastrophic engine failure. Honda is starting to deny valid warranty claims for technicalities. Engine repair is extremely costly due to lack of aftermarket parts and low quantites. s2ki.com for other testimonial.

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  First time, some surprises, mostly good. - 2000 Honda Prelude
  By Locutiss - March 19 - 2:00 am

  My first new car in 13 years and my first time driving a Prelude. The dealer had a Black, 2000, 4-speed sequential sport shift transmission. Cost $1000 more than the 5-speed manual. After I got used to the transmission and shifter, I really appreciated its benefits. Car has rock- solid handling, cornering and braking. Sturdily built and low to the ground (another feature that takes getting used to). I regularly use both sides of the sport-shifter. I plan to keep the car for a long time.

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  Honda 2004 Not as great as expected - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By sshammas - March 19 - 2:00 am

  We bought the HOnda because it was rated so high. Engine and safety wise it is good, But if you are interested in the inside features then there is a lot missing. Only one power outlet (very inconveniently located), no cigarette lighter. Cant get or even buy a front console. you get a fold down table with cup holders which dont hold the cup very well. as you turn, the bottle or cup falls off. No temperature gauge or compass. The entertainment DVD is not that easy to use. but the screen is good. the space and trunk area are great.

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  great reliability - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By lilmunkins - March 19 - 2:00 am

  Like the handling of the vehicle, handles like the accord. Lots of blind spots though. Reliability is AWESOME!!!!! The interior could be a little more luxurious, but it is easy to clean and easy to use.

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  Our Odyssey - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By brockandcarla - March 19 - 2:00 am

  Great looking van. SPorty and super great options

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  I love it, but the gas mileage is awful - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By burrman - March 19 - 2:00 am

  I love this car. My wife drives the minivan and I drive an old honda station wagon. I always look forward to driving the Odyssey! Its both fun and functional. Weve had a couple fairly minor reliability problems (door roller and oxy sensor). Good acceleration, handling, cruise control, braking -- you name it. I must say, our gas mileage is terrible. It is not uncommon to get 11 or 12 mpg around town. Highway is good as I get > 20 mpg. Unfortunately, we do mostly city driving.

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  I LOVE my Odyssey - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Dragonfyr - March 19 - 2:00 am

  this van is wonderful! Comfortable, reliable, and a great drive. I replaced my 97 Plymouth Voyager 123,000 miles with this vehicle and love it