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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  Great Mini Ute - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By tzaharis - July 23 - 10:00 am

  This SUV is very functional, with a great use of space. Also, you cant beat the reliability and re-sale value.

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  Noisy but nice - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By Deacon - July 23 - 10:00 am

  Just had to have one and now that I do, Im enjoying the ride. Its a bit more noisy than I would prefer though. The 02 Camry I traded in was a lot quieter. The ride is somewhat harsh with bumps and general road conditions felt much more than you would expect from a van with this price tag. The seats are very comfortable and the roomy interior is just what is needed. The road trips have been enjoyable and I look forward to many more. All in all a great van.

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  Honda quality shows.....most of the time - 2001 Honda Civic
  By moichman - July 23 - 10:00 am

  Honda is known for its great vehicles, and the 2001 Civic is no exception. Except: there are so many rattles on this thing its crazy. I was always sure not to buy a first-year model, but it happened, and Im noticing why now. Also, the transmission hunts for a gear around 1500 RPM, but I blame the small engine for that, which is very smooth along with said transmission.

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  Perfect for Grandpa and Grandma! - 2001 Honda CR-V
  By hausfrau - July 23 - 7:39 am

  After being in a car accident with our 1992 Honda Accord with an 18 wheeler and lived, we were sure that the Honda was a good make of vehicle. Brother- in-law and sister sold us their 2001 Honda CR-V. We love it! My husband is 65" and has plenty of leg room. This is a spacious automobile. We have our own little entertainment center in the front seat with us, AM/FM/Cassette Tape and CD player. We have the little "bar" and the table in the back. What else could a little old retired couple ask for? It rides smooth. We dont know what it will be like in a Minnesota winter, but the brother-in-law had it for 8 Wisconsin winters, so that cant be too much worse. No more accident fears! Yay!

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  Third and Goal - 2009 Honda Odyssey
  By Third Odyssey - July 23 - 12:49 am

  We are on our third Odyssey and will likely go for a fourth. The 09 Touring has great features and functionality and keeps on getting better compared to our 04 and 05. Road noise is non-existent, fuel economy is 22 city and 28 highway. The radio is well placed and logical and the nav has everything including a compass. I paid 40% off of the $42K sticker due to dealer hunger. First time I have felt good about my purchase price.

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  Poor Gas mileage - 2001 Honda Odyssey
  By Sally - July 22 - 11:37 pm

  Get 13mpg in city driving. Transmission went out at 90k. A good car, but the gas mileage is killing me.

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  Think Twice - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By Lucky - July 22 - 10:43 pm

  Van has 51000 mi. Brake Pads went out at 28000mi. Have replaced DVD player twice. Headphones have problems. Air went out at 50000 mi not covered under extended warranty. Power steering pump making noise at 38000 mi. First set tires lasted 28000mi, second set much better. Battery died at 3 years. Windshield whistles. Dealer is always trying to push unnecessary (and costly) service items. Gas mileage is ~24 mpg highway.

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  Transmission blew after only 70,000 - 2000 Honda Accord
  By KELLY - July 22 - 7:59 pm

  I absolutely love this car - it drives great, nice looking. I bought it used at 12,000 miles. I now have 71,000 miles and I need a new transmission. 2500.00 this is unbelievable! I am so bummed. I cannot afford another car or even this trans. but I am doing it. Aamco is doing the work and said they have had 1999 and 2000 Hondas needing new trans. I think this should be a recall, especially since I only have 70,0000.

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  Awesome vehicle. - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By noone - July 22 - 6:18 pm

  Doesnt get much better than this.

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  Best Ride Ever - 2006 Honda Civic
  By CALIDRIVER - July 22 - 3:26 pm

  Im so glad my experience with my first car has been a great one. I bought the CIVIC EX with Navigation, and it was worth every penny. I love the sporty look. reving it up when intering a freeways is probebly the best part. The navigation system is a life saver.