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 small car - 2008 Honda Civic
  By arcticracer - April 28 - 10:16 am

  This little car is a gem. My first criteria was MPG, but I got way more than I expected. It was hard to find one with a manual, but I am old school (52 yrs) and prefer it by far. After over 7000 Alaska miles I have averaged 33.7 MPG. On the highway in summer I have reached over 46. With a set of General Altimax Arctic studded tires my Civic sticks to the gnarly Alaska winter roads like glue. Snow tires cost 5 MPG. Handling is precise, sporty, and steering balanced and neutral, leaning slightly toward oversteer. With over 6 months of ice and snow, I have been amazed with the sure-footed habits of the Civic. My wife also loves driving it.

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  Great Minivan! - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By San Anton - April 27 - 10:12 pm

  If youre looking for a great minivan thats fun to drive and looks nice, look no further. We drove all the top brands and Honda wins any comparison, hands down. That being said, the Toyota is a close second however, the ride isnt near as smooth or quiet and its expensive option packages make buying one a not-so- great experience. Weve had our LX for a year and we couldnt be happier (unless of course we had the touring model, but thats a bit outside our budget). If youre thinking of buying a minivan, drive the Honda first then compare the others. Youll see what I mean.

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  9 Years Old and Going Strong - 1998 Honda Odyssey
  By Elizabeth - April 27 - 7:29 pm

  I love my 1998 Odyssey! Its 9 years old and has never given me any trouble. I currently have 110,000 miles on it, and aside from routine maintenance, I never have a concern. It is boring to drive, but it never pretended to be a sports car. It is very comfortable, and I wish Honda still made them this size. I would buy another one. Sometimes I wish it would die, so I could get something sportier, but then common sense kicks in and I remember what a great investment this vehicle was/is! I hope I can get another 100,000 miles out of it.

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  Excellent Van! - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By cln475 - April 27 - 1:58 pm

  We leased our Oddysey in May of 2004. My wife had just given birth to our third child and we needed the space. We got rid of our 2002 Accord and purchased the Ody. The turning radius is amazing. You can literally drive in a tight circle on the parking lot. Roomy, comfortable and the DVD system keeps the kids quiet on long trips. We like this van so much we are purchasing it now that the lease is up. The problems we had were the OEM tires, Michelins. Bald at about 30K. Also the mileage was not great. Averaging about 17 mixed driving. Reliable, family friendly and comfortable. Good vehicle.

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  The best! - 1998 Honda Civic
  By joe knows - April 27 - 10:00 am

  I have owned my Civic for over four years and I only had to use the warranty service once. This is a great car. As a owner, I highly recommend this car.

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  ok - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By garyb - April 27 - 10:00 am

  RIDE IS GREAT. GAS MILEAGE IS AVERAGE. SAME AS THE 1992 VOYAGER I OWNED. INTERIOR QC COULD BE BETTER.

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  Great Civic - 2003 Honda Civic
  By mrtigger1 - April 27 - 10:00 am

  This car gets excellent gas mileage of 29 cty/ 38 hwy. Controls and quality of materials are excellent. Quite Peppy acceleration. Good ride quality. good price of about $15,000 plus 1.9% finacing for 60 months.

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  Great Value - 2002 Honda Accord
  By Honda-Happy - April 27 - 10:00 am

  the 4th Honda I have owned. Buy one you will become addicted to the peace of mind!

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  Very Satisfied - 2002 Honda Accord
  By Value4me - April 27 - 10:00 am

  Bought my Honda new and so far i am very pleased. have to mention The uncompromising reliability of Honda...so far 20K and not a single issue of concern. I drive alot of highway, and car rides very smooth at 75mph. spacious, I am 63" and fit comfortably.

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  Great Car - 2003 Honda Accord
  By pradistra - April 27 - 10:00 am

  This is the best car on the road for the price. It looks great, it drives great and has the features of a car costing twice as much. Plus you cant go wrong with a Honda.