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 E is great - 2007 Honda Element
  By Scott D - May 10 - 4:45 pm

  I had my doubts going in to the dealership and could not have been more suprised. The car drives very nicely, handles great, and has way more room than you think. Im 64" 210 pounds and fit with ease.

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  Best all-around vehicle! - 2007 Honda Element
  By Drelement - May 9 - 11:44 pm

  I cant say enough how much this is my favorite car I have owned so far, including the 03 Mercedes CLK320 I traded in for this fine SUV. I got the Nighthawk Black Pearl w/ black tinted windows, giving it a very sleek, head-turning appearance. They finally fixed the grey-paneled look that has kept me from fully appreciating the exterior. It rides firm, but sporty while still feeling as tight as a vault. The engine noise is not a concern at all. Acceleration is fine, since I just like to cruise in it. I already used its immense hauling capabilities each of the first 3 days I had it! This car is a keeper!

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  Great Car - 2002 Honda S2000
  By s2000 owner - May 9 - 6:44 pm

  Very fun car to drive. Gets looks/compliments everywhere you go. People dont expect it to be a Honda, and tend to think its a lot more expensive than it really is. Interior is a little cramped, but goes along with the territory of owning a 2-seater. Otherwise, the gauges/controls are very driver oriented. Light-weight / RWD / lack of traction control can get a little scary in the rain. Suspension is pretty stiff and not too comfortable. A true enthusiasts car, Honda did well on this one. Id absolutely adore it if it were my weekend car, but since its a daily driver, the stiff suspension and lack of traction control and torque can get annoying. performance - yes. Practicality - no.

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  Great Family Car! - 2007 Honda Pilot
  By Jon - May 9 - 5:54 pm

  I have had my Pilot for 6 months now and absolutly love it! I have had all the others and this Pilot easily is the best ever! And I almost bought the 4runner since I think the Pilot is funny looking! With just over 6000 miles I am just now averaging the 17mpg which they advertised. 20 mpg has been my best on all highway driving. Drive quality is fantastic and I am so glad that I got a car with third row seating so I can seperate my young boys. Car has tons of space for storage between seats and also in the back. Easily holds 4 guys and all the golf gear! Makes a great family car. Tons of space and small kids fit well in third row

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  Tall Driver...Little Car - 2006 Honda Civic
  By SiK99 - May 9 - 4:26 pm

  Dont let the title fool you. Im 65" tall and have plenty of room in this car. I bought my 06 EX a year ago. I havent had any problems so far. Some people complain that the seats are not comfortable. No car is perfect and at under $20,000 the seats arent too bad. Everything on the dash is right where its supposed to be...ergonomics are just right. About 55 hwy/45 cty and Im getting 35 mpg avg(I kept track of all but 2 tanks since purchase) The main, if only, gripe I have so far is the tires dont last much past 25k miles. ***I also test drove a Mazda3 hatchback found the two cars to be comparable***

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  Drive this car - 2006 Honda Accord
  By zoomer - May 9 - 3:26 pm

  Great car except for road noise coming up through floor. The Acura TL has the same problem. Oh well, you cant have everything. Car is very smooth. Transmission is good but there is a gate to push through to get it over to 5th and 6th and another for reverse. One for reverse is all that is necessary for most drivers. Sound system is very good. Rear seat room is great.

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  Study, reliable car - 2001 Honda Accord
  By MJ Gehant CPA - May 9 - 1:57 pm

  This is a sturdy, reliable car. Handles well and very zippy. It makes up in reliability and durability what it lacks in excitement. No mechanical or body problems, decent mileage (though I expected better than 28 mpg but my lead foot may have something to do with that). I fully expect it will go another 300,000 miles or so, although another driver will get that experience since Ill be trading it off soon. No fault of the car - its just time for me to move on to something else. My overall experience with this car has been great - nothing bad to say.

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  I love this SUV! - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By neo - May 9 - 10:00 am

  Traded in my old Ford for a sleek new Pilot and it was the best thing I ever did. Smooth ride, good acceleration, and good mileage for an SUV. The only problems include price (supply/demand issue), and exterior finish. I would have preferred to have the door handles be the same body color rather than black plastic. Otherwise, the Pilot is an absolute winner in every respect!

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  Great Vehicle - worth the wait - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By sunice12 - May 9 - 10:00 am

  Huge Honda fan = Have owned 4 other Civics and Accords Have owned Chevy Blazer, Nissan Pathfinder and most recently Jeep Grand Cherokee Larado..... None compare to the Pilot NOT EVEN CLOSE

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  Off to a good start - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By - May 9 - 10:00 am

  The Pilot gives a smooth, roomy ride. Lots of storage and cargo room for a midsize SUV. Very pleased with the performance, especially the quiet transmission and acceleration. But we miss the rear door window that opened separately from the door that was on our old Explorer.