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:

• 

  2007 Honda Element - 2007 Honda Element
  By hatchva - February 25 - 3:55 pm

  I have driven the Element in snow, off- road and on highways. The vehicle seems to be at home wherever I go. I am getting about 21 miles to the gallon in around town and highway mix driving. The interior is functional and is exactly what I wanted. It allows for quick changes from passenger vehicle to cargo carrier to wet dog carrier. The radio is outstanding and the controls on the steering wheel make driving and changing stations much easier. Overall I would rate this as an outstanding vehicle for someone who is between getting a truck or a van and doesnt need seating for 5+.

• 

  Love my Honda! - 2007 Honda Element
  By Nikki - February 25 - 12:56 pm

  I never really use to like the Honda Element. However after test driving one, I am hooked! I ended up buying one from Boch Honda on the Auto Mile. I LOVE how the Element handles and drives. All my friends cannot get over how much room there is on the inside. I love how easy the seats in the back fold up to create even more room. I will definitely purchase another Honda!

• 

  07 Honda Ridegline - 2007 Honda Ridgeline
  By Joe - February 25 - 9:50 am

  Had many other trucks/cars and the Ridgeline is by far the best. The ride is is quiet and comfortable, it handles well, the seats are great,the motor is silky smooth with plenty of power. Plenty of room in the cabin with all the amenities. Navi system works like a charm. It is a great combination vehicle that can do many things well. Simply put...it just fits.

• 

  First Honda - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By racecars - February 25 - 8:00 am

  After leaving items at Home Depot that would not fit in my much loved Mercedes C240 AWD sport Wagon my search began for something larger. Weeks and many test drives later. I have what I think is the perfect mode of trasportation. A truck that drives like a car! The Ridgeline is a hoot to drive and has tons of room and all the safety and creature comforts of a luxury car. You must at least test drive this truck. Honda has a real winner.

• 

  Another Pilot for us - 2009 Honda Pilot
  By AJ - February 25 - 7:03 am

  Originally hated the new styling, hoped for more rounder then boxy. Now that I own one, I like the shape, it grew on me. We are very happy with this vehicle. Coming from an 04 Pilot there are many changes, more space, bigger feel, smoother drive, better interior. Plastic dash doesnt bother me, controls are easy to learn. I do find myself sitting forward when driving, its not the headrest but the support behind my back pushing me forward. Seats are very comfortable. Pick-up can be a bit sluggish when merging onto the highway. Love the radio and the way it displays station, song title and artist. Much better access to the handle for lowering the third row then in the 2004.

• 

  Best Family Auto to own - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By katyyyy - February 25 - 2:00 am

  Going on 7,000 miles an loving it. My husband and I researched mid size suvs for 6 months seperately before purchase For safety, price, roominess, gas milage, fun to drive and towablility the Pilot out-ranked every thing else. Our other car is a Porsche so family auto had to be fun to drive too, it is. As a travel soccer family we needed room for 4+ for long distance travel - kids dont argue in the back any more. Moved up from a Mazda MPV and havent looked back! Really love this auto.

• 

  HONDA PILOT EXW/ LEATHER AND ENTERTAINM - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By CINDY LABA - February 25 - 2:00 am

  THIS IS THE BEST AUTO I HAVE EVER OWNED, IT IS FUN, AND RIGGED, AND FULL OF STYLE. THERE IS NO LET DOWNS, I WOULD ADVISE ANYONE WHO IS LOOKING FOR A SUV TO GET A PILOT. WE ALL LOVE THIS SUV. I HAVE HAD A GRAND JEEP CHEROKEE, AND A 4- RUNNER, AND A RAVE - 4, THIS HAS HANDS DOWN BEEN THE BEST IN ALL AREAS!!! THIS AUTO WAS PURCHASED AT HONDA OF FRANKFORT, THAY WERE GREAT, AND MADE THE DEAL SO EASY, VERY KIND, AND GOOD AT WHAT THEY ALL DO AT THIS DEALERSHIP! CINDY LABA

• 

  Great Car! - 2001 Honda Accord
  By Lghtspeedz - February 25 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car for the side air bags (worth an extra star in crash tests), the 6 disc, and the manual transmission. I previously owned a 94 Accord that was absolutely flawless. This car is a little more Americanized in terms of driveability. The clutch is less precise. The brakes dont last nearly as long (58k versus 100k in my old car). The new brakes are already grumbling in the rear. The gas mileage is a little less than I expected. It has a few squeaks, but the great stereo can easily tune them out. This car has been very reliable and I already have 70,000mi on it. I know that I can get in the car and it will always start.

• 

  Solid All Around - 2003 Honda Accord
  By gbtyler - February 25 - 2:00 am

  Traded in my Jeep Grand Cherokee LTD w/V8 for a car. I havent had a car in years and this was the best decision Ive made. This car has quirky good looks, excellent peformance, top notch interior materials and layout and the proven reliability of a Honda. So far so, good after a few months and 4,000 miles. Car is quick enough off the line and super smooth and nimble on the highway. a fun car to drive and not a burden on the gas budget. There is a slight delay in gear change from reverse to drive that takes a little getting used to.

• 

  AWESOME LUXO-COUPE!!! - 2004 Honda Accord
  By FlyVTEC - February 25 - 2:00 am

  A Honda with a V6 SOHC VTEC and a 6 Speed is a match made in heaven! My car is a daily driver and Ive driven her 750 miles in my 2 weeks of ownership. So far I have nothing but superlatives to say about this car. It is fun to drive, very comfortable, good power, good looking car, the ride is a little bit on the harsh side but it is not bad at all, the leather seats are great, the standard XM radio sounds great...I am very, very pleased with this car.