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 Perfect Van - 2007 Honda Odyssey
  By Mike - November 26 - 11:30 am

  My wife and I drove several different vans and had it narrowed down to the Sienna XLE and the Odyssey EX-L. I decided that I wanted to drive the Odyssey Touring to see if there was much of a difference. I couldnt believe how much nicer of a drive the Touring model was. I love it. There are a ton of features that are all useful. This is one nice van.

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  I Love this car!!! - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Felix Mendi - November 26 - 10:00 am

  I havent been so happy with a car in years. If you have kinds and hate the idea of a minivan. You owe to yourself to check out the Pilot. The third seat is perfect for kids. I just cant say enough about this car.

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  What a great SUV to own - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By a proud driver - November 26 - 10:00 am

  We bought this car without much research. We drove pass the dealership and went in for a test drive. We fall in love with this car immediately. It is very easy to drive, has all the necessary function. And, about all, the price is great!

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  Awesome! - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By magic2121 - November 26 - 10:00 am

  I really love this vehicle. It is the family car and definitely my favorite. The Toyota RAV4 can not even be compared to this exceptional Honda CR- V. I would recommend this car to anyone wishing for a roomy, five- passenger car.

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  great van in the market - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By rk - November 26 - 10:00 am

  BEST van in the market. We are completely satisfied.

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  first honda - 2003 Honda Civic
  By carla - November 26 - 10:00 am

  I love my honda civic lx. I traded in a ford focus 2000. I was sorry I did not buy the honda the first time.

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  Nice car! - 2003 Honda Accord
  By illeggs - November 26 - 10:00 am

  This is my second accord after having a Camry in between. Was surprised to see the simulated walnut finish in a non- luxury vehicle. Great handling and nice acceleration for a 4 Cylinder.

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  NICE JOB HONDA - 2003 Honda Accord
  By jerry shyu - November 26 - 10:00 am

  luxury interior and engine POWERFUL whenever u need so quiet n smooth.honda has done well job in accord(2003).

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  Great buy - 2004 Honda Accord
  By gcabral424 - November 25 - 10:34 pm

  Im a proud owner of 2004 Honda Accord LX. To date I have put over 50,000 miles and havent had a single problem. I regularly do the maintance thats recommended and thats all. I love everything about the accord. The power, comfort, and gas mileage are awesome. The 4 cylinder although small has plenty of power and never lets me down. The only complaint I had with the car was the handling. Recently I purchased new tires 225 40 18 and the handling has greatly improved. I always knew that the small stock tires that the dealer provided was not enough rubber. Bottom line: great car!

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  My Honda Wagon - 1991 Honda Accord
  By Walter - November 25 - 8:26 pm

  This is an outstanding vehicle, I have 199,657 miles on this vehicle. It always accelerated well taking off and when I needed to pick up speed. I drive it to work 5 days some times 6 days a week. Never had any major mechanical work done. I plan to drive it for another 100,000 miles or have it overhaul if it is ever needed.