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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  Honda Odyssey is excellent minivan - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By Mom of 3 - March 13 - 11:00 am

  I researched and test drove every minivan on the market including the kia, Hyundai, dodge and toyota. I also spoke with many minivan owners. The features that were most important to me were the flexibility to configure the seats different ways because I have 3 small children in car seats. I also wanted a minivan that was somewhat luxurious as I was not thrilled about the necessity of buying a minivan. I am so pleased with the Honda. It is easy to drive, easy to maneuver the seats and I love it! We have made family trips and it has been great.

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  Great people mover - 2000 Honda Odyssey
  By sommervr - March 13 - 9:48 am

  This vehicle has been the primary people mover for our family of six. It has towed our 2000 lb tent trailer all over North America. We probably run over the 3500 lb recommended towing capacity. We bought it used with 60 km and it currently has 180 km. In that time we have only done routine maintenance and replaced consumables (tire, brake pads). This vehicle has been run right at the limits of what is recommended and hasnt given us a spot of trouble.

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  Just all around fantastic - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Cargo - March 13 - 5:33 am

  I researched this car thoroughly and compared it with the Toyota Corolla and Mazda3, and I am so happy I bought the Civic. The gist: sleek exterior design; a simple, stylish, and functional interior design; good handling, and great gas mileage. The ride is smooth and I dont think road noise is as bad as other reviewers claim. I got the Tango Red Pearl color and I have received a plethora of compliments about this car. I love it!

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  Honda Hits Home run with Civic - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Evan Wagner - March 12 - 11:40 pm

  Great commuter car for 2 people, I wouldnt want to spend much time in the back seat. 42.2 mpg on my 2nd tank on the interstate. At 75mph the engine turns only 2500rpm and is pretty quiet - its a Civic, not a Mercedes. Cool redesign put it at the top of my list which included Toyota, Hyundai, VW and Scion. Vision out the right side and back isint great.. The 2 tier instrument panel is fine. Engine is pretty peppy considering the gas mileage plus the automatic transmission is very smooth.. Theyll sell every one they can make.

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  2007 EX-L - 2008 Honda Odyssey
  By Airbum - March 12 - 8:06 pm

  Great space and good highway fuel mileage. Handles well for a large van/car. Dont really like the 6 disc cd changer and would like a factory ipod adapter. Overall this van won my spouse over from the Pilot with flying colors

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  Excellent Car To Own - 2005 Honda Civic
  By Steve - March 12 - 7:22 pm

  I purchased an 05 Civic EX in Nov of 2004. It cost me a little more in California at 18k but it was worth it. Ive gone on several long trips with the car and average about 420 miles per gas tank which is a little below what is advertised. The car has sat in storage two separate times for 7 months and did suffer some slight sun damage which is unavoidable in California. The biggest problem ive had with the car is a small piece of plastic on the drivers side interior door handle that comes loose periodically. I have not had any cold weather starting problems here in California as low as the temps get which about freezing. Ive only spent money on basic maintenance and aftermarket mods.

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  Honda still doing it right. - 2006 Honda Accord
  By Robert Smith - March 12 - 7:13 pm

  I have owned honda cars in the past. With the gas prices the way the are I went for an economical car. Accord was the choice and honda is sill doing it right. The 2.4 has great pep and getting over 32 m.p.g. As in the past the car is fun to drive solid ride and oh yea, the air bag system is second to none. Thanks again Honda for making my choice easy.

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  Company Car - 2005 Honda Accord
  By eGuepardInc - March 12 - 5:53 pm

  For a Hybrid, this cars acceleration matchs that of any sport touring sedan in its price range. It is quiet and comfortable to drive. When the engine shuts down at a stop light takes some getting use to. The engine start up as you accelerate from a light is an item Honda needs to smooth out. Braking with a "Auto Stop" engine is another task a driver needs to adjust to. So far the gas mileage is 32mpg with a total of 1,500 miles driven. In California with gas at $2.50 per gallon expect to pay a $2,000 to $3,000 premium (Dealer Mark Up) on the vehicle.

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  Love my new Honda with a caveat - 2005 Honda Accord
  By Pat - March 12 - 10:00 am

  My Honda has wonderful performance and power to pass the slowpokes but I have to say I am somewhat disappointed in the gas mileage I get in city driving. I average about 22mpg in the city and I do mostly city driving.I suppose for a V-6 that is pretty good but I was hoping to get closer to 25mpg in the city.The main thing was getting used to the brakes, they are quite sensitive to the slightest touch. The other thing is when you pull into the garage and are trying to coast in, the engine sometimes shuts off on you and you have to come up on the brake to get all the way in without stopping short.Other than that it is luxury plus! My friends are jealous!

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  Great family vehicle!!! - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By dkdriver - March 11 - 10:36 am

  Its a luxury vehicle while being a family hauler. The navigation is awesome, and I love the drive experience. The seat adjustments are excellent, even if the interior is a little less dashing than would be desirable. Its a smooth riding comfort SUV for a large family such as ours, all for a very reasonable price given all the features. Also very safe.