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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  Not That Impressed - 2008 Honda Ridgeline
  By Darryl - April 30 - 3:40 am

  This was my first time ever buying (leasing) a import vehicle and so far I have not been that impressed. The Performance is good and it is fun to drive. Driving it in the snow is like a dream. It also tows my medium sized tent trailer very well but that is where the good stuff ends. I find the front seats are not comfortable on long drives and my back ends up very sore. My truck has been to two different dealerships a total of 7 times for tailgate issues and the problem is still not fixed correctly. After a year, the driver door seal wore out and had to be replaced. The paint is very soft and scratches very easily so I do not recommend a dark color (mine is a dark red).

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  Awesome vehicle - 2005 Honda Element
  By Gary P - April 29 - 5:30 pm

  I love this vehicle. I had always thought I wanted one, but it was not until I drove it that I had to have it! I think it is the most comfortable seats and I drive all over the country on long trips of more than 10 hours at a stretch. If you go from an American van to this, you will be in heaven! The only knock is the gas mileage, too many stops to refill. I do get in the twenties, generally 300 miles on a tank full, but I have run it to 360 miles. My ACN business keeps me on the road, and I practically live out of it.

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  Hondas fun machine - 2003 Honda S2000
  By Newtquist - April 29 - 10:00 am

  Pure sports car. Boxsters, Z4s, Miatas and TTs are mere pretenders to the title compared to the Honda S2000 exquisite driving experience. Before you spend stratospheric amounts for a convertible,(yes, even all the way up to Ferrarris) you really need to drive this machine first. If you own a Ferrarri, you also need to have one of these in your collection.

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  The S2000 is THE Convertible - 2003 Honda S2000
  By Austins2k2003 - April 29 - 10:00 am

  Car and Driver, Road and Track, neither is wrong. The S is the roadster like no other. The 9000 RPM redline is amazing!

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  Quite the head-turner - 2003 Honda S2000
  By tbe721 - April 29 - 10:00 am

  As being a convertible doesnt attract enough attention, the S2000 is quite the head-turner. Because of Hondas limited production of the model, there are few on the road and people are always doing double-takes. Its an all- around great car - fast, fun, beautiful, reliable. Being such a hot- looking, two-seater makes it almost an impractical luxury but, hey, its Honda - so "impractical" is just not possible!

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  Best Roadster Ever - 2003 Honda S2000
  By s2000cabrio - April 29 - 10:00 am

  Handling= awesome Body Style= beautiful Engine= think 9,200 RPM & 120HP/per liter. Gearboxes= the best in the world

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  brakes - 2003 Honda S2000
  By ren - April 29 - 10:00 am

  it runs on fumes very well which is why i say it is reliabale.

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  Ideas - 2003 Honda S2000
  By Nate2003 - April 29 - 10:00 am

  I enjoy the roadster!

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  s2k dominance - 2003 Honda S2000
  By venom s2k - April 29 - 10:00 am

  Overall the s2000 is the most fun convertible under $100,000 to own. This car has everything that the the others have, but for under $35,000, which is why I am the proud owner of one. The s2000 has great performance, a tastefully styled interior which fits the car, and a bold exterior and distinct exterior which makes people on the street say, " what kind of car is that!!!"

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  honda s2000 the best - 2003 Honda S2000
  By shinds - April 29 - 10:00 am

  great ride and handling,