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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  Great Utility Vehicle - 2006 Honda Element
  By Dan - September 10 - 1:13 pm

  This is my familys second Element and we have loved both. Safety and performance are both very good. Very low maintenance. The 2wd seems a little bit peppier than the 4wd that we had previously. The stereo as well as the interior design are both very nice. Ways to improve this vehicle would include a little bit more power and slightly better fuel economy. Otherwise it is a fantastic vehicle!

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  2005 CRV Rear Differential problems - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By Bill - September 9 - 1:13 am

  Great car except at about 12,000 miles I started to have rear differential problems. When sharp turns are made at very low speed the rear end vibrates and shakes, and there is a clunking sound. Took it to the dealer. First they said i wasnt driving it enough. Then said there was a TSB saying that there was a lubrication problem with the clutches in the unit. Said they fixed it. Got worse the same day I drove home. I think its a defective differential, the screen filer inside is clogged, or oil needs to be changed, manual says 60,000 miles, probably should be changed once a year. Couldnt sell the car with that kind of problem. Still under warranty two years and 20,000 miles, back to Honda.

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  LOVE Honda Oddseys - 2010 Honda Odyssey
  By PR - September 8 - 11:23 pm

  Ive had one the last 16 years. My kids are grown but I still want to own one. Just wanting to upgrade to a newer one

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  My "Fun" Car - 2006 Honda S2000
  By Gene - September 8 - 10:25 pm

  Leased S2000 after five years driving pickup, and wanted a "fun" car. Well, this car is all the fun one could ask for! Performance, handling, quality, "fun," it doesnt get any better. Being blessed with a "larger" frame, once buckled in, you get the true sensation of being part of the car. Gearbox is one of the smoothest Ive ever experienced. Short and percise throws and this car "sticks" to the road. At 6200 rpms you wake up the 240 horses and experience a whole new life! Been averaging 25-26 mpg around town. 06 is the last year for the S2000... might just decide to hang onto this one! Now go find yourself a Mustang and have some "fun!"

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  Great GSW (glorified station wagon) - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By EC - September 8 - 8:33 pm

  Needed a replacement for my aging minivan and had almost settled for a midsize sedan, but a stop at the Honda dealer changed that. The Pilot drives like an upscale sedan and has plenty of room when you need it. Seating is very flexible and comfortable, too. Agree with other owners about the windshield wiper stalk getting in the way of the odd gear shifter, but after a week or so learned to get used to it. Very comfortable highway cruiser and fun on the backroads, too. Great power train..very refined. Looking forward to extended trips in it this summer! Gas mileage is a minor concern, but if you drive a GSW, it isnt a priority.

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  So much room! - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By rvtprincess - September 8 - 3:12 pm

  Traded our 04 Accord in for this because of a 2nd baby on the way and wanted more room. Boy, is there ever tons of space! Its very peppy- gets up and goes quick for a family car. Dual sliding doors are so nice with kids when my hands are full. Turns on a dime and has great visibility. Wish I couldve sprung for an 05 w/ remote rear door opener.

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  fun toy - 2006 Honda Civic
  By adjaloo siam - September 8 - 2:43 pm

  This is really a fun toy. Its so sleek from the outside you think its some fighter plane or something. Mine can shift with just two fingers. its damn too good of a car

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  our first mini van - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By greg - September 8 - 1:40 pm

  never thought i would love driving a mini van as much as my odyssey very comfortable in all situations and handles great. power is amazing even on steep hills, gas mileage could be better around town.

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  Good Vehicle - I mean CR-V - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By Joes - September 8 - 10:20 am

  Everything thing is good

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  Practical Box - 2003 Honda Element
  By extreme element - September 8 - 10:00 am

  The Element is all that it is expected to be; functional, unusual in appearance,a hit with the younger generation,reasonably comfortable, dependable, and easy to operate.