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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  Enjoying the Hybrid - 2004 Honda Civic
  By Elaine Fox - January 21 - 2:00 am

  I really enjoy driving this car on both long and short trips. The gas mileage is about 47 miles per gallon and it has great pickup on the highway...I have no problem doing 20 mph or 75 mph when needed. It doesnt take long to get the pick-up needed to go from being stopped to going 75 either. I thought it might at first and found I was doing 80 to compensate...so it wasnt necessary to floor it at all. Its a great car and I wish more people knew about the hybrids. I think its a crime that they do not advertise them the way they do the SUVs and other "gas guzzlers"! Sincerely, Elaine Fox

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  Great Car - 2003 Honda Accord
  By jpd289 - January 21 - 2:00 am

  An excellent car for anyone. I have a 3 year old and have no problems getting her in a child seat. Comfortable and east to drive. Gas milage could be a little better but staying off the gas would help also. Fun for family or single person.

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  My New Accord - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Danibird - January 21 - 2:00 am

  After driving around in a 97 Mazda Protege for the past few years, I decided to "step up the game" and purchase the 2003 Accord. I must tell you that Ive had this car for 7 months now and it has yet to disappoint me. This is a well made car. Not only is it nice to look at, the interior of the car is comfortable enough to want to take those long rides in. This is a great driving experience.

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  the best! - 2004 Honda Accord
  By khittykhat01 - January 21 - 2:00 am

  wonderful and very fun to drive. smooth riding, very nice audio system.Navigation is very helpful and not as complicated as one would think.

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  Just OK - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Soccerizer - January 21 - 2:00 am

  Good looks inside and out but only 25mpg mixed hwy/city with light touch on gas. Engine not that smooth and too much wind and road noise on fwy, so I have to crank up the radio to hear it. Be sure to test drive before you buy. I didnt. Based my decision primarily on reviews from this web site.

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  Outstanding Ride - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Michael A - January 21 - 2:00 am

  Looking for a car for the wife. She wanted a Toyota Camry, but after taking a test drive and comparing vehicles, Honda was the way to go. This is a first in buying a fully loaded top of the line Accord.

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  Its a Honda, through and through - 2003 Honda Accord
  By pleased2003owner - January 20 - 6:40 pm

  We purchased this car with 23K on it as a certified used Honda. I would never return to the dealership that sold it to us, but have completely loved the car. Avg. 22 MPG city, LOVE the NAV system. The V6 is responsive yet efficient. I would love to see auto headlights, memory seats, and better tires (I replaced the factory tires with some Dunlops that have really improved handling/road noise). The brakes needed new pads at 46K on all four tires...dont know if normal or not.

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  BEST Ever - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By INLIKE - January 20 - 12:18 pm

  This is the best vehicle I have ever owned. It just fits. Has everything you need. Easy to drive and move about. Love the way it feels as you tool around town. It is well appointed. Get one!

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  Hondasatidfied - 2016 Honda Odyssey
  By Lou - January 20 - 5:04 am

  Shop around for best privces

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  Love my Pilot! - 2016 Honda Pilot
  By Naomi Rouse - January 20 - 1:08 am

  My 1st Honda andealership SUV and its wonderful! Heard and read great reviews about the Pilot. After owning a month I must say Im completely satisfied at this point. Ill keep updating my post to let you guys know how my Pilot treats me on this journey!