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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  Honda is where it is at... - 2002 Honda Civic
  By markycena - September 30 - 2:00 am

  I have gone from owning a Acura to a Chevy, Dodge, Ford, and now finally back to a honda product. I cant believe the difference in quality... I WILL NEVER STRAY AGAIN. I love my honda!!!

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  Get the best ! - 2006 Honda Accord
  By ddent01 - September 29 - 8:03 pm

  We did extensive research (and test drives) prior to buying our Accord EX. Moving from a F-150 Supercrew (3 of them over last 8 years) to a car is a big adjustment. Given the prospect of $3/gl gas again this is a no brainer and we knew we had to do something. This is our 2nd Accord and we forgot how much fun they are! The 4cyl engine is extremely peppy and the cabin is super quiet. Ergonomics are great and the build quality is very nice. If youre looking for a mid-size sedan the Accord should definitely be on your short list. Yes, everyone has one... but ask yourself why. Just look at the reviews and youll know. BTW, would recommend Milan V-6 as a strong 2nd choice!

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  Honda 2005 accord - 2005 Honda Accord
  By Paul OC - September 29 - 5:03 pm

  Great machine

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  What I love & dont love of my Element ! - 2005 Honda Element
  By Marty Wilson - September 29 - 10:20 am

  I do love this car but dont like the suicide doors in parking lots. Cant load anything unless you have lots of room to open doors. I also dont like the AWD. The cars a little low. We get snow and had a hard time. Ending up pushing the snow like a snow plow.When I want 4 wheel drive I want to engage it myself. I think this car would be great with regular doors. I dont like having to open mine to let clients out of back.

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  Excellence - 06 Honda CRV - 2006 Honda CR-V
  By hdana - September 28 - 3:40 pm

  The 2006 Honda CRV is a responsive, fun car to drive. Honda reliability was a deciding factor for purchase. Our intention is to drive this car for the next 150,000 miles as we have our other Honda.

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  Bobs Best Buy - 2007 Honda Pilot
  By ROBERT BELLANTONI - September 28 - 1:16 pm

  A great car to drive. My first car with navigation system dont know how i survived without it. My previous suv was an Accura MDX. The Honda pilot is as good if not better at $7000 less in cost.

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  A good family car - 2000 Honda Accord
  By haraga - September 28 - 10:00 am

  A good family car with no problems. It has now 68000 miles.

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  Classic Honda! - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By jenryan598 - September 28 - 10:00 am

  We love honda and we didnt bother to try any other SUVs, we new we wanted it and are even more sure of it after getting it. It is typical Honda. It has a lot more room inside then it looks. Gas mileage is as expected, not great but better than most SUVs. You cant go wrong with this vehicle, you wont be disapointed!! (had no problems with the reported fire problem after the first oil change)

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  Awesome - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By ludger1 - September 28 - 10:00 am

  After driving 1,000 miles I have to say its fun. Excellent engine performence Ccoming from a DC). Brakes are awesome.

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  It sure beats my 90 Olds! - 2004 Honda Accord
  By mandy_at_unl - September 28 - 10:00 am

  With the driver seat and steering wheel adjustment options, it is easy to find a perfect fit for any driver. The only drawback is if another driver adjusts the positions of the seat and the steering wheel, it is hard to find that same perfect feel without a lot of trial and error. One of the options that I never thought I cared about was the ability to put the windows down from the keyless remote, yet I use this all the time when it is hot out. I love it, but the downside is that you have to start the car to put the windows back up. Two months after I purchased the Accord the sunglasses holder would not stay up, but the warranty process was extremely easy and they had it fixed in no time