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:

• 

  1990 EX Prelude (UK Model) - 1990 Honda Prelude
  By Darren Wyeth - December 20 - 10:19 am

  I bought this 1990 EX prelude auto, which is equal to the USAs S except for the cruise control. I had an 84 prelude a few years ago but had to sell it, but I saw this come up and grabbed it whilst I could, Its extremely reliable and feels just like a new car the only problem I have with it are the speakers, but these can be replaced. Its not a nice looking as the 2nd Generation (1983-1987) but its the most fun Ive had since my 84!

• 

  Excellent overall sedan!! - 2000 Honda Accord
  By Justin Espineli - December 20 - 8:23 am

  Bought this vechicle used with 88,000 mi. Changed timing belt at 100,000 mi. Had problem with EGR valve and had it replaced by Honda. Other than that, car runs like new. Very comfortable for commuting, but this car really shines on the highway. Calm, poised ride with little road noise. V6 power is excellent mid-range(60-90 mph). Exterior styling is a little bland and stock stereo provides average sound quality. Interior materials are high quality and feel solid. Ergonomics are excellent. Previous car was a 92 Accord with 215,000 mi. I expect this car to last even longer. I definitely recommend the Honda Accord (new or used) to the potential buyer.

• 

  Fast Car fun ride - 2003 Honda S2000
  By MIA2003 - December 20 - 2:00 am

  This is one of the best cars I have ever driven.

• 

  The auto for dog owners - 2003 Honda Element
  By Tiber - December 20 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle is perfect for dog owners. The back area with tie clips and the flip up seats are just what the doctor ordered for two medium sized dogs and muddy paws are no problem, just wipe it off.

• 

  This is a great SUV - 2003 Honda Element
  By Samoth - December 20 - 2:00 am

  You got to get one of these, what I like the most about it is the all the seats (4) fold down and fit together (converting in to a bed), the rear seat once let down can be unlatched and swing to either side, then you have basicly turn it in to a cargo bay, this can be done with easy, or if you cargo is wide, you can simple take out either one of both the seats! Im excited, I cant wait for summer to take the moon roof out, dont to metion the 7 speaker system, with woofer. Im really excited1111

• 

  Best car Ive had yet - 2003 Honda Civic
  By Paul in Atlanta - December 20 - 2:00 am

  This is the best value on the road today. When I entered the economy car market for my 18 year old daughter, I figured wed end up with a watered down econo-box. I was AMAZED at the sporty build and performance. Add that to 38 mpg on the highway, and you have a must buy car. Maintenance is cheap and very infrequent. The interior has a sports car feel (somewhat like a junior version of my 2001 Acura 3.2CL Type S) and its a joy to drive.

• 

  Honda Makes the Best Better - 2003 Honda Accord
  By kgregson - December 20 - 2:00 am

  I am a long time accord owners, in fact this is my third. Honda Blew me away with this car! Honda outdid themselves this time. I expected good but damn, I am 25 and LOVE driving a family sedan. The accord has always been a good economical family sedan. Now, it is a sporty family sedan with the build, fit and finish of the best luxury cars out there. Great job Honda A+

• 

  best Honda ever - 2001 Honda Prelude
  By Erik - December 20 - 1:09 am

  Prelude is the best honda ive ever driven. Love the HP, love the way the VTEC screams from 5200 up to redline, feels like ur in a formula-1 car. Good brakes, good mileage on freeway, excellent handling. very exciting car, would recommend to anyone.

• 

  First Element- Wont be the last! - 2007 Honda Element
  By familyof4 - December 19 - 10:57 pm

  I had my first Honda Civic for 14 yrs then replaced it with another Civic several years ago. With two kids, we wanted something safer. Given the heavier weight, side curtain air bags and great crash test results, we bought the Element SC and absolutely love it. Its a lot fun to drive, handles very well, sounds solid when you close the doors, ride is quiet, looks great, safer than the previous Civic and is very functional. It has more room from the passenger seats forward than our Mazda MPV. Another very satisfied Honda customer. When will US car makers get on the ball?

• 

  04 ODYSSEY EXL AS SALES VEHICLE - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By BTBUTZ - December 19 - 1:17 am

  After driving a 02 Caravan Sport with the 3.3ltr engine & 4 spd trans., test driving the 04 Honda Odyssey was a real eyeopener and proved to be very reliable for my Midwest sales rep. territory. The Honda was hands down smoother in every way and more powerful to boot. I liked my GC, but the Odyssey has me sold and I will buy the 07 Touring for our family vehicle soon. I will buy another Dodge GC also, to run til it falls apart, hopefully later than sooner for my work vehicle. Utility van, this time bought with 80k miles, depreciated all the way out. Would recommend Dodge or Chrysler owners at least drive the Odyssey before making the choice