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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  I love it! - 2007 Honda Element
  By DJA123 - January 2 - 5:20 pm

  I dont know why these arent more popular. The look is different but not ugly..it really grows on you. Its a comfortable, roomy and reliable multi- purpose vehicle that sells for about $22K with AWD. People are afraid of the quirky style but they are missing out on a fun and practical vehicle. It really makes you feel young at heart regardless of age. If you are on the fence because of the way it looks, believe me, the Element will win you over. Its really fun, practical and a great value!

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  Elemental! - 2006 Honda Element
  By Kim - January 2 - 2:43 pm

  This is a great little car - especially if you are outdoorsy, have animals, etc. FUN to drive, you can sit up and see things without the gas gobbling of a larger vehicle! Best car Ive had in a long time!

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  Wonderful Car - Our 2nd Odyssey - 2007 Honda Odyssey
  By Mothers Day Gift - January 2 - 1:43 pm

  2nd Odyssey replacing one purchased in 2000. Honda "fixed" my previous complaints with the 00, including having a 5 speed, leather heated seats, is much quieter, moonroof and a exterior temperature display. The folding rear seat is improved with headrests that dont come off and the whole thing collapses easier. Spare tire relocated to the back cabin making room for extra storage in the second row floor. HWY mileage improved tp 27 MPG with variable cylinder shutoff despite the engine horsepower now at 255 from 210 in 00. All that said, what I like most about the Odyssey is its car like ride. It simply drives wonderful, with hardly any body roll. Drive a GM van and youll understand.

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  is the one! - 2007 Honda Element
  By jeffry Kotler - January 2 - 12:50 pm

  I was shocked when i drove my element. It drives exceedingly well, its fun to drive, and it does have a quiet ride. I was used to range rovers, (the high end ones), and this is so much fun. You have developed a great car.

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  Love this car - 2003 Honda Element
  By goldschmid - January 2 - 12:21 pm

  There is no better car if you, like I, need to haul furniture or just more than you intended to buy at Costco. I have had the car for four years and almost 60,000 miles, and there have been no major repairs needed. As a result, this Element has cost far less to own and maintain than I ever expected. Although some people dislike the way the back doors open, it is a real advantage when you are trying to reach items or move bulky furniture in or out. On occasion, I have removed the back seats and used the element as a small van when moving our adult children to college or a new apartment. There is almost as much room as a small UHaul. In short, I am very satisfied with this car.

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  Maxed out EX - 2001 Honda Civic
  By odachimaster - January 1 - 9:57 pm

  Great car never let you down. Nice clean look beautiful blue color. Easy to add accessories. Fun to Drive handled very well. v-tec engine had a little pick-up when you need it.

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  Best SUV we ever owned. - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By AJnMA - January 1 - 4:27 pm

  This is clearly the best SUV that we ever owned. Over the last 16 years we have owned over 30 cars and this is probably the best one overall of all the vehicles. When it comes to SUVs no other beats it. We have had a Durango, Liberty, Passport (both Honda and Isuzu version and CRV (2x). This is the best mix of style, room and functionality that an SUV can have. The third row pulls out easily for when the in-laws come over or the seats fold flat for the runs to the dump. Our Durango spent more time in the shop than on the road so this has been pleasant to fill and go with the regularly scheduled oil change and maintenance. Handles like a dream, even in the rough New England winters.

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  Perfecy Pick Up - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By Ron - January 1 - 12:00 pm

  I have has the Ridgeline 18 months, perfect pick up. I even towed another car 1400 miles, ample horse power. Still have not seen a better performance truck. Front wheel drive/AWD is the smartest feature, awesome in the snow. Average 18-19 mpg.

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  Picked the Accord - 2006 Honda Accord
  By ZAX - January 1 - 11:46 am

  The Accord is kinda boring looking IMHO, both inside and out, but its quality is outstanding, it drives great, the 4 cyl. with auto is VERY responsive and a great performer, and there is no question that the Accords last 150,000 to over 250,000 miles with no problems - and thats what is most important to me.

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  my sweet toy - 2007 Honda Pilot
  By lut-jud - January 1 - 3:23 am

  Test drive it then I told myself.... gotta have it! My first SUV..... Fun to drive with lots of standard features