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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  My two cents - 2003 Honda Civic
  By jen - September 27 - 12:00 pm

  This is my first Japanese car and my first manual shift car. I bought it used (31000 miles) from a private party because I was looking for a used 2-door hatch-back gas saver with low mileage and light color (very specific am I?). GTI and Civic Si were my only options. GTI lost out in fuel economy (heavier car) and was mostly sold by dealers. I got lucky to find this babe. 8 months later I can say that I made a great choice! The reasons: 1. fuel economy (not at Prius level but kind enough to my wallet) 2. you dont see many of them on the road, unlike the Civic 4-door sedan 3. smooth and fun to drive 4. hatch-back (why dont they make hatchback anymore?)

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  Love my 2004 the Honda Element - 2004 Honda Element
  By RoadDuck2 - September 27 - 2:00 am

  I have been driving my 2004 Honda Element for a few weeks now and love everything about it. I bought it from Sport Honda in Silver Springs MD. Julius was our saleman. He is just wonderful and sweet. So we have had a great experience with everything.

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  Excellent Family Car - 2004 Honda Element
  By mecasey67 - September 27 - 2:00 am

  With two small kids and a dog, I needed a second car that could carry everyone if needed (and if our van was unavailable). The Element is great in this role. On weekdays it gets me to work and back, and on the weekends we can gather up our gear and the dog and go. Liquid spills and dog hair are all easily washed away. A fun car to drive. Honda build quality is evident everywhere.

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  Versatile, Functional, Futuristic - 2004 Honda Element
  By Thundercow - September 27 - 2:00 am

  Awesome! My other car is a Mercedes SL500, and I find myself taking the Element more often than not. The Element is fun, well-built, and incredibly versatile. The interior is the greatest asset. It has rubberized surfaces for easy cleaning and long wear. The rear seats fold to make a bed, fold out of the way, or can be removed. This car can do snow, dirt, camping, hauling, delivery, daily driving, and it does it all well.

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  funky but gets the job done - 2004 Honda Element
  By nikk - September 27 - 2:00 am

  The Element might look alittle weird but if your looking for a reliable 4wheel drive at a decent price, and like to take long drives, this is your best best!

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  My Ride - 2000 Honda Civic
  By runves - September 27 - 2:00 am

  This car was made to be bought and put ALL the aftermarket stuff you can on it. That is why it is a "Value Package".

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  Still a Benchmark after 5 years - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Parrot_head - September 27 - 2:00 am

  Finally bought our dream van. Researched all the others, chose the best (Toyota was not discounting the 2004 Sienna). Great value, the best design and engineering...its a Honda. Great resale and safety ratings too. Powerful, solid body structure, great handling, good mpg. Does not have all the gimmicks that other have, just a well engineered vehicle.

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  Odyssey - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By mandarye - September 27 - 2:00 am

  I love my Odyssey, It is very dependable and drives like a car instead of a van. It comfortably fits 7 people into it.

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  Pound for Pound the Best Minivan - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Buldawg86 - September 27 - 2:00 am

  We looked at all the minivans (Dodge, Nissan, Toyota, Honda). The five star safety rating, options on the EX model, Price and powerful 240hp won me over.

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  Excellent - 2001 Honda Civic
  By Meg - September 27 - 2:00 am

  I loved my Honda. I will buy another one without question!!! It gets great gas mileage and the maintenace is very easy. Very fun to drive.