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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  Pilot - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By DMOS - January 8 - 4:56 pm

  I purchased a 2006 Pilot LX AWD during the Honda year end clearance. I like this vehicle very much. I also own a Honda Civic so I am familar with the Honda vehicles. We recently took a 600 mile trip and I average 23 - 24 MPG. This was done by driving in the 60 - 65 mile per hour range. This is my first 4x4 and I like the way the Pilot drives and feel on the road.

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  the perfect 10 - 2005 Honda Accord
  By heather - January 8 - 1:00 pm

  We LOVE our new Honda...we upgraded from a 2003 Accord LX and could not be happier! We have seats that warm and satelite radio! TERRIFIC gas milage as well!

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  Great Truck - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By racecars - January 7 - 6:45 pm

  I test drove every truck out there before I purchased this truck and 16 months and 17000 miles later I love it more then ever. The only problem I have is keeping my wife from taking my Ridgeline, which she prefers to drive over her infiniti.

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  Does the job for the least money - 2004 Honda Civic
  By GoingfromAtoBandBack - January 7 - 5:37 pm

  Too many people marry for looks rather than moral character, and too many people get an unreliable car with the same superficial philosophy. We couldnt be happier with our base-model Honda Civic. My car is not my identity but simply a thing to take me from A to B and back. Over the last three years, our Civic has done the job flawlessly. And we got it for the least money long- term among compact cars, except for the Corolla, which is comparable. People dont need 6 or 8 cylinders, or a car that "looks good." As drivers, we need cars that will reliably drive us on paved roads without driving up our debt or driving us crazy with repairs. The Civic builds contentment and peace in our hearts.

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  Honda Element - 2005 Honda Element
  By KGas - January 7 - 1:10 pm

  My experience with my Element has been perfect. No problems whatsoever. The interior and exterior design is magnificent.

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  The Best Kept Secret is Out - 2004 Honda Element
  By tbdass - January 7 - 2:00 am

  This is the best car Ive ever owned. Its all-purpose functionality is excellent along with the wonderful drive and comfort.

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  greatest suv - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By RETIGER - January 7 - 2:00 am

  Me and my wife bought our Honda Pilot from Agron at Schaumburg Honda he showed us the great value in the pilot and he is right we have nothing but good things to say about the pilot and honda I hope they dont change anything on it

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  One of the best - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By hbrigiii - January 7 - 2:00 am

  I have had just about every type oe style of car there is but I keep comming back to Hondas. This Pilot is probably the nicest Honda I have ever owned and one that will be with me for many years

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  Worry free 4 wheel drive vehicle - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By susanroses - January 7 - 2:00 am

  it handles very well in snow or loose gravel.You dont even have to worry when to push the 4 wheel button

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  The best car - 2003 Honda Accord
  By vayalo - January 7 - 2:00 am

  Beautiful car, nothing wrong about it.