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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  What a looker - 2006 Honda CR-V
  By newCRVowner - September 26 - 7:41 am

  Great little SUV. Previously owned a 98 Accord, only maintenance, never broke down. Honda quality outstanding. Interior has more plastic than accords, but still nice. Handles well, comfortable as it drives like a car. Clear view of road ahead of you. Look forward to the all-wheel drive in the upcoming winter. Holds its resale value very well. Wind noise is minimal. The fuel efficient 4 cylinder is what sold us. Interior is user friendly. We like the steering wheel mounted radio controls. The vehicle has a nice 4x4 stance, but yet is very classy looking. Like the look of the 2006 more so than the 2007. Rear tinted glass is a bonus for children. Best looking mini SUV on the market.

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  Had to go with Quality and Reliability - 2006 Honda CR-V
  By Lanny - September 25 - 9:02 pm

  My first SUV happens to be this Honda CRV EX. It is probably one of the best decisions I have ever made. How can anyone ignore the quality and reliability of Honda? I considered other SUVs in its class but none could compare to the crisp driving experience of the Honda. You can "feel" the quality of craftmanship in the Honda engine when driving. I was considering a used Honda CRV but the high resale value made the difference only 1 or 2k and in some cases the used costed more than the new, so I bought NEW. The good gas mileage is another plus. The fold down and tumble back seats is an amazing feature and the picnic table made this the must have family car. Honda 4 life!

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  best ever - 2006 Honda Element
  By BOXERMOM - September 25 - 6:17 pm

  i have owned suvs from every car maker and this by far is the best, it is small to park and yet large to pack, drives like a dream my dogs love it, everyone i show it to, are ready to go out and get one, sorry i didnt buy one sooner, would have not wasted to much time on other suv that made me feel claustrophobic, not this element.-

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  Safety - 2003 Honda S2000
  By lstpelican - September 25 - 2:05 pm

  Hey all just wanted to tell my experience. I just rolled my s2000 this past friday and this car saved my life. It does hydroplane very easily, but when you become airborne and come out with only a few staples in the head I say get another one. Thanks Honda for building a great, safe car. JT

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  Love it! - 2006 Honda Element
  By Deborah Storm - September 25 - 10:35 am

  This is a great car for capacity, style and economy. The interior is waterproof so hauling my wet dogs around after going to beach and river outings makes this a perfect car for anyone outdoorsy.

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  A minivan that can handle curves - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By sapgar - September 25 - 10:33 am

  Best minivan I ever owned or test driven. The only minivan that handles like a German sedan. I cant imagine a more practical kid hauler or vacation vehicle. Sure hope it holds up for miles to come.

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  One year and still lovin it! - 2005 Honda S2000
  By airheart6 - September 25 - 10:05 am

  Ive had my car for one year now and I still enjoy each time I get behind the wheel. Ive installed the 8 CD changer as well as the headrest speakers which really make a difference when the top is down. You could hear music before, but you can really hear it well now. I was also pleased about the mileage (Ive gotten 23-25 mpg), not near as good as my Toyota Camry, but much more fun to drive. I find the leg room on this car much better too. I "tried on" many sports cars as I have long legs, and this one "fit". I also liked the glass back window in the top. Its much easier to see out of than the Nissan Z6 (which I found to be roomy inside, but visibility was terrible out the back window).

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  s2000 - 2006 Honda S2000
  By Dallas - September 25 - 7:33 am

  fun car to drive. its hard to believe the power that little engine puts out great handling

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  Honda AS Radical AS YOU CAN GET!!!! - 2003 Honda Element
  By slaveofgovt - September 25 - 2:00 am

  If you want to turn peoples heads, this vehicle will definitely do that!! When my vehicle is on the street, I have many eyeballs that stare at my car.. It is unbelievable that the attention this car gets. Excellent ride.. Roomy... I love the orange color on some of the Elements... Its different.. But different is good!!! I cant tell you how much I love the space on the interior....

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  Bulldog Cute - 2003 Honda Element
  By sir hectic - September 25 - 2:00 am

  The Brand New Honda Elemsnt was the last car of a four car list for looks. Among the competition were Vibes, Liberties, Xterras, and Ravs. None of these cars had the versitility or the ride of the Element. My salesman encouraged me that the looks would grow on me. I waited a month before buying an new Silver Element EX 4WD. What a payoff! The 4WD was impressive when I took it in the snow. The interior fit and finish were heavey duty and industrial. IF you are even remotely thinking about this car, go for it! The worst thing that will happen is that people will stare.