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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  Pilots Rule - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By MPG33095 - October 14 - 2:00 am

  Just love it! Couldnt recommend it more!

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  Amazing - 2000 Honda Accord
  By R.J.A. - October 14 - 2:00 am

  I have to say that I used to be a toyota driver. I discovered Honda about 5 years ago when I bought my first Civic. Now I own a new Civic and an Accord. It truly is the Best riding car around and it runs like a dream. My Civic is just as fun as the first, but now I have even more room! Keep it up Honda! Thank you so much for the quality product you provide for my family.

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  Realy nice car - 2000 Honda Accord
  By lsakizada - October 14 - 2:00 am

  I have this car over 3 year, seems that it was worth the money that purchased it 23000$ before tax. This car can drive on the siera mountains smoothly. I will keep this car many years since it was realy reliable.

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  I love my Accord V6 w/Nav - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Vopc1 - October 14 - 2:00 am

  I love my Accord. Everything from the power, sound system, and navigation system shouts "expensive". The doors feel and sound German good. The service costs are quite inexpensive. I am also happy with the 16 inch wheels because I did not want the harshness that is inherent with larger wheels and tires. I will change the Michelins with something else in about a year since they are a bit loud on some surfaces and not that grippy. They are good but not up to what the Accords suspension can do. Overall... great job Honda. I have owned Hondas since 1987 and I will probably own at least one for many decades to come, even if I were to hit the lottery!

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  Accord EX vs 2000 Audi A6 2.7T - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Tim Fry - October 14 - 2:00 am

  Of course the Audi handles better and has more power, but thats where the benefits stop. The Accord provides a smooth ride, plenty of power, a VERY comfortable interior, and is a LOT less costly to maintain. You dont have to spend $45,000 on a fancy German car to have fun.

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  but but but need more leg / head room... - 2004 Honda Accord
  By hillbillygirl - October 14 - 2:00 am

  I love my car. Its the bomb...but but but... Im uncomfortable in the drivers seat. My heads too close to the ceiling and my legs are too close to the steering wheel. Ive tried to adjust the seat and steering and I just cant find a comfortable position (Im not a tall person either). Granted, I was used to my Odyssey Van... The passenger seat is more comfortable. I think the seat sits closer to the floor (?) I hope I get used to this and it quits being an annoyance... The gas and break are really touch too (just to mention it). The interior design is "sweet!".

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  Go Get One! - 2008 Honda Accord
  By FlyboyFlash7 - October 14 - 1:06 am

  Extremely comfortable drivers seat/driving position. Great acceleration with precise handling.

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  The Honda with Two Personalities - 2006 Honda S2000
  By Aaron - October 13 - 8:05 pm

  The Honda S2000 has been my favorite car that I have owned. I have had sports cars in the past, but none have been so rewarding as the S2000. Around town it does great on fuel economy with a combined 24 mpg! The engine is nice below 6000 rpms, but above that it is mean and it comes to life! An animal if you will. It has the best gearbox in the world, flick the shifter with your finger. Its like cutting warm butter with a knife, it is so precise! Handles the hell of the road! My Corvette felt so bulky and the shifter heavy. It was an okay car, but I heard about the S2000 from a friend and Im so glad I purchased it! Very rewarding car that wants you to revv the heck outta it! BUY IT!

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  Great car for the money - 2002 Honda Accord
  By luismacias - October 13 - 10:00 am

  This is my first car and Im very happy with my purchase. Other cars with the same level of equipment would have cost me at least $5000 more. The V6 engine is strong and quiet. The manual states that regular unleaded gasoline is needed, unlike other competing cars that require premium. Despite what others say about the bland styling, the car is fun to drive, its a sedan but being a Honda it has a sporty feel to it. Visibility all around is excellent with no blind spots. Fit and finish is good as well.

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  Awesome 4WS - 1991 Honda Prelude
  By ludebay - October 12 - 7:53 pm

  My uncle bought this car back in 1994. Its a 1991 Honda Prelude SI with 4WS. I felt in love with the car when I heard that it was 4WS. He then sold it to me for a very nice price. =) The handling on this car is awesome and you can feel the acceleration when you hit on the gas. The 4WS is very handy when making U-Turn and parking.