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:

• 

  2010 Honda Pilot AWD / RES - 2010 Honda Pilot
  By Calvin - December 28 - 3:30 pm

  I finally traded in my Van for this SUV. So far, I like it better then my Van. one problem I noticed, it seems to pull to the right. Looks like others are having this same problem. I brought it to dealer, they said, they are not seeing the problem. They said it is normal that it pulls if I accelerate. I think that is junk! My brother CRV is not doing that. For that reason, I lower its quality to 7.

• 

  As good as their motorcycles - 2008 Honda S2000
  By gene - December 28 - 11:45 am

  This car is a poor mans world class car. Fantastic handling, hard acceleration, and great build quality combine with bulletproof mechanicals to make what I feel to be the greatest package for the money. This car looks like it could cost twice what it does. I can park this car next to nearly anything else on the road and not feel in the slightest way inferior.

• 

  Great Great Great - 2006 Honda Accord
  By JIM - December 28 - 3:40 am

  This is truly "the" automobile. If there is anything negative to say, it would be that the back seats have no leg room. I am taller and need my seat back which eliminates legroom in the back. I dont need back seat so this is basically a 2 seater for me. I love this vehicle! I am never in a hurry to get anywhere anymore. In fact when I get there I wish I still had some more miles to cruise.

• 

  Vantastic! - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By Dolphie - December 27 - 10:50 pm

  I had the EXL with RES for five months and every drive has been a pleasure. Great power and handling for a minivan that is so carlike . I had a 2000 Mazda MPV and upgraded to the Honda this year for my two kids needed growing room. I was pleased the two vans were similar in interior design and handling. I got comfortable the first time I drove the Odyssey. Vantastic!

• 

  Root Beer Rules - 2008 Honda Element
  By Sall Good - December 27 - 9:55 pm

  I wanted a more versatile vehicle than the sedans Ive driven for years, but didnt want a truck-based SUV or minivan. Ive owned several Accords and a Civic -- all great cars -- but after buying a house, needed something to haul stuff on occasion. This well-handling and peppy vehicle fit the bill perfectly. Ive been looking for something like this for years. Bought the SC model because I really dont need 4WD, and also really liked the Root Beer color which is only available on the SC. It sits lower on larger tires than the EX or LX. It really makes the car sleeker-looking, and improves the handling. Love this car, and expect to keep it for a long, long time. Fits all needs.

• 

  Micks Accord - 2005 Honda Accord
  By mick1840 - December 27 - 9:00 pm

  I have driven Cadillacs most of my life. I gave up on GM so I went to the Honda. The performance of the Honda Accord is excellent. Little or no problems. I have driven the Honda Accord for a year now. It is everything I want in an automobile.

• 

  nono - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By 2loco - December 27 - 8:26 pm

  Overall I am very happy. I have owned a lot of autos and this is as close to having it all that I can get. Very versatile. handles like a sports car, will haul my atv, has 4x4, will seat 5. nice ride on highway. not like all the rest. a style all its own.

• 

  No Repairs Yet! - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By Stacy H - December 27 - 7:04 pm

  I bought this car new. It has NEVER had a problem ( besides battery and brakes) I have 80,000 miles. I was hit by a Taurus, I got out of the Honda and could not see a dent, finally I saw it, only $900 to repair (Taurus totalled) These are great cars, mileage could be better, wind noise bad, great product.

• 

  No more Hondas for me - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By brandy - December 27 - 5:21 pm

  I had lots of problems with this van. I bought this van for more room and dvd player for my children. I owned the CRV and loved it. I had to replace tires and the battery. Hate the lights do not auto shut off in the inside or head lights. I have young children that turn on lights and get out. The dvd player broke had to get new one put in. The small drawer above floor broke the tracks fell right off. The middle storage is hard to use because of the reaching in. Most important it is horrible in the snow. I live in Michigan and have had many small front wheel cars that drive better. I am on this website because Im looking to trade this in.

• 

  2003 Honda Civic LX - 2003 Honda Civic
  By 2003 Honda Civic LX - December 27 - 1:34 pm

  I got this car from a used car dealer about 1 year ago, and have not had any problems whatsoever. I will say that the seats arent all that comforting for long rides and the default radio system lacks, but aside from this, no complaints. Overall, this car is very reliable.