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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  42.5 mpg on first commute! - 2012 Honda Civic
  By tnmansfield - November 4 - 6:35 pm

  I just traded my Infiniti G35 sedan which was a great car. Now that my commute is 112 miles each day, I needed a more economical car. The 2012 Civic EX-L has a luxury feel to it, a great ride, plenty of back seat room, and the seats are comfortable. I got a whopping 42.5 mpg according to the trip computer on my way in. I have read some negative press reviews but dont see the problem with the new conservative look. The interior is quiet, the ride is smooth, and the dash layout is really interesting. I like the new information screen.

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  Honda Mom 2nd time - 2009 Honda Odyssey
  By Honmom - November 4 - 8:25 am

  I had a Sienna and liked it very much, but bought the Honda based on the safety factor. It rides like a dream, with great pickup. It has lots of room and is very comfortable. I agree about not getting PAX. I have heard it is a complaint by a few. The Toyota is poorly rated for rear crashes with the insurance institute. This was a huge factor for me having three children. I have had no significant issues to speak of. I am sold on Odysseys.

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  Forget the Prius - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Clinton70 - November 3 - 3:00 pm

  This is loads cheaper than a Prius and has potential for mileage well into the 40s if you drive right. Also, its not ugly and dangerous like the Prius. 46.7mpg on one tank on 87 octane on 55mph roads. 42 on interstates. City (lots of 25mph and stop and go)/highway mix was still a respectable 31. Design in and out was fabulous. Power was plenty for a gas saver. Ride was great for an economy car. Regret getting rid of but had a kid on the way and coupe was too small. I probably could have kept it though as the back seat was not small by any means for a coupe.

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  HONDA MISSED THEIR TARGET - 2003 Honda Element
  By hvm - November 3 - 10:00 am

  ALL OF THE "EXPERTS" AND HONDA SAY THIS CAR IS FOR THE 20-26 YEAR OLD. IM 51 AND MANY IF NOT MOST OF OTHER ELEMENT DRIVER I HAVE SEEN ARE OLD GEEZERS LIKE MYSELF. IM ALSO 67" AND 320LBS. I AM VERY COMFORTABLE AND HAVE PLEANTY OF ROOM. GREAT CAR!!!

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  enjoy driving it - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Debbie_Five - November 3 - 10:00 am

  I enjoy my Pilot. I wanted the third row seating withouth the HUGE SUV. Also, I love the sage brush with the fern leather interior. I am not unhappy with my decision. I do not have the rattles and unexpected road noise I read so much about.

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  WE BOUGHT A LEMON - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By t8307 - November 3 - 10:00 am

  Our Pilot has been in the shop 34days for repairs since we bought it. Not happy withit at all.

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  I LOVE MY PILOT - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By CH1NADOL - November 3 - 10:00 am

  THE BEST I LOVE IT

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  owner - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By threebusybees2 - November 3 - 10:00 am

  I have had two new vans and I will continue to buy the honda until I find something else that I like.

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  Odyssey Drives like Accord with SUV Powr - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By compuserbs - November 3 - 10:00 am

  Searching for a strong SUV, I found myself returning to the Odyssey for its incredible interior comfort, ease to drive, size above the road, stability, Power and towing capcity, which out ranks many SUVs. Every seat is plush, comfortable and at 63", I can sit comfortably in the back with plenty of headroom, air and sound quality. Truly it drives like an Accord with the Power of an SUV and rides higher than most SUVs as well, but handles the corners and turning radius is amazing.

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  Barely Acceptable if it were a Chevy - 2001 Honda Civic
  By dleamon72 - November 3 - 10:00 am

  Poor performance(slow, loud, bouncy ride)poor build quality(sunroof failed and needed replacement, speakers rattle, big panel gaps)pitiful dealer service at Miller Honda Culver City CA (slow turn around time, poor service advice, surly service advisors). Brakes wear out at 10k miles, battery failes at 24 months. Overall a pitiful car and a pitiful ownership experience. I dont think Honda is trying as hard as it used to with this model.