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:

• 

  The truth about the Honda Oddyssey - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Alex Edgley - May 29 - 2:00 am

  The Honda Oddyssey is a great car. Its been 1400 miles and has cost us very little to operate. It gets excellent mpg and the seats are perfect for long trips. Its suprisingly compact engine propels it to 60 faster than any of its competitors. But chances are your not going to care about that much. Hondas legendary reliability is very present in the Oddyssey model. In the duration that we have had it nothing has fallen off or has needed repair. With a Suburban which has twice as many faults, you would spend twice the amount on gas, and you would have to live with the shame of tras

• 

  Love this van! - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Deborah Thomas - May 29 - 2:00 am

  I love this van! We had a Toyota Previa prior to buying this and thought it was great - this one is even better! We have 3 active,tall kids and seem to always be on the road. No complaints aboutleg room or lack of spave to put their travel stuff. Have taken it on several long trips and it is very comfortable. Has that "car" feel and ride. Would reccomend to all!

• 

  A happy family - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Erin - May 29 - 2:00 am

  This is a beautiful and reliable car that can take a lot of abuse and still works and looks great. The power doors still amaze people daily.

• 

  Odyssey got it all - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Azhar Choudhry - May 29 - 2:00 am

  I was looking for a minivan for a long time and was inclined to buy Town and Country but during the Odyssey test drive I changed my mind. I knew this is the one. So I bought 2004 model and since then I have no regrets. Its drive, safety, design, space and fuel economy is best in the minivan category. I know that I am driving the most reliable van out there.

• 

  great vehicle with a lot of potential - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By jdh - May 29 - 2:00 am

  This suv has alot of potential with more horsepower and available sport options. Great vehicle for a small family. Great on long and short trips.

• 

  Great little SUV - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By bpgolf02 - May 29 - 2:00 am

  After doing months of research and driving similar vehicles the Honda CR-V EX is the best value for your dollar. The combination of how the vehicle handles, safety features, 5-Star crash test score and good gas mileage sold me. This car rocks. Way more room then it appears from the exterior.

• 

  CIVIC HYBRID REVIEW - 2004 Honda Civic
  By CHIDEVIL80 - May 29 - 2:00 am

  I LOVE IT, IT SAVES ME MONEY, HELPS THE ENVIRONMENT, AND IT IS AS RELIABLE AS A REGULAR CIVIC. ALSO IT ISNT UGLY LIKE THE OTHER HYBRIDS OUT THERE!!!!

• 

  Japanese gas sipper - 2004 Honda Civic
  By sammyboy - May 29 - 2:00 am

  Bought my 2004 EX 4dr/Auto for $16,999 with 2.9 APR. Nice new style. I do prefer the Coupe, but hate having to move my seat back and forth for ear passangers. After 3K miles, I had not one complaint yet. It handles well even though they took away the front Double wishbone. With the new front suspensions setup, the car does rides on the softer side.

• 

  Actual owner review - 2005 Honda Accord
  By Gemini8801 - May 29 - 2:00 am

  This car is simply amazing. Everything from the leather seats to the XM radio is wonderful. The performance from the 4 cyl. is more than adequate, no need to spend extra for the v6. A complete pleasure to own and drive.

• 

  Rather regretful - 2010 Honda Insight
  By kay - May 28 - 10:53 pm

  Really slow on the uphill. I gave up pep for top gas mileage. Although I have gone by the book to maximize my MPG I have been averaging 29 city and 32 highway. Needless to say I am very disappointed. The car has an odd feel on the highway - its hard to describe, but there is a play in the steering that causes it to feel like it has a slight fishtail movement which makes me a little motion sick. I love the exterior design but feel the interior has design flaws. I agonized over whether to buy the Insight or Prius. I loved many features of the Prius but didnt feel they were worth the price diff. I am regretting my choice.