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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  Excellent Car - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Donna Pearlman - April 27 - 10:00 am

  This car is wonderful! I upgraded from a 1993 Accord SE. I loved my old Accord and hated to part with it, but this new one is something else! A very sweet ride!

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  Love my new Honda - 2007 Honda Ridgeline
  By Dave - April 26 - 11:09 pm

  I just traded my 04 F-150 Lariat for the RTL and it is every bit the vehicle the Ford was and more. If you can stand the lower towing capacity (and most people can) this is a great vehicle. Way more refined than anything else Ive owned, its a pleasure to drive.

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  Im a believer! - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By Laurie - April 26 - 1:28 pm

  I purchased my Pilot last April 2006, and love it more now than I did then! It is very comfortable and fun to drive. The mileage isnt the best (I get around 17 city), but its a big vehicle, what do you expect? I have plenty of room for my two children, their car seats, strollers, and even their friends with their car seats! I have all the versatility that I need with this car. Buy it!

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  I love it! - 2007 Honda Ridgeline
  By spb_gaco - April 26 - 12:29 pm

  I love the Ridgeline. I came from a Ford F-150 and was a little leary about the Ridgeline at first. I am glad that I got it though. Probably the best truck Ive ever had.

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  You learn to love it.. - 2007 Honda S2000
  By jose rvazquez - April 26 - 11:22 am

  I have previously own Porsche boxter and was not sure about this trade. Im so glad I did. This car is a great performer on long highway trips. Great pick up and aerodynamic style really performs well cutting thru air flow. Can get bit of interior upgrade, power windows, trunk opener all can be moved to center console for easy access. Top roof can used more padding. Better stereo system and more comfortable padding for car seat should be standard at this price. This car has so many potentials Honda need to continiue production and make small improvements for future models without any major price alterations. My advice, buy this car. Learn to drive it and you will be satisfied.

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  2001 Odyssey - 2002 Honda Odyssey
  By Huck - April 26 - 8:56 am

  Very good hauler of 4 small kids and two adults -- plus, it pulls a pop-up camper with ease. Very typical Honda quality, with adequate power, a great interior design and very good gas mileage. Relatives got a new Ford Windstar and Chevy Venture and HATE them! They are now considering a trade to get the Odyssey. Would recommend this to anyone considering a minivan.

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  Great car! - 2016 Honda Accord
  By Ted Drake - April 26 - 4:53 am

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  Great car! - 2016 Honda Accord
  By Ted Drake - April 26 - 4:53 am

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  Great Car - 1998 Honda Civic
  By Ben Hill - April 26 - 2:00 am

  This car is a great car for first time buyers.

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  My New Toy - 2003 Honda Element
  By BryGuy - April 26 - 2:00 am

  . The Honda Element caught my eye and the look became somewhat infectious. Now that I had a chance to drive the Element for about a month, I’m very pleased with the purchase. From the outside of the Element, it looks like a small box, open the doors and it has enough room for most items that I need to haul around. The Element has a stiffer ride, but it’s nothing that I can’t live with. The Element has a very simple interior control layout and all the knobs are easy to understand. All in all, Honda has put their best foot forward in leading the automotive community but without compromising the “HONDA STANDARDS”.