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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  Love It! - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By ammyjax2 - August 28 - 10:00 am

  This is the safest, most fuel effecient SUV and it is so fun to drive! My husband and I were looking for a second vehicle and we loved our Accord, so we looked again at Honda. We just love our CR-V and feel 100% secure knowing that we will bring our new baby home from the hospital in it.

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  tjbt - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By T.J. Brown-Taylor - August 28 - 10:00 am

  My review for the Honda CR-V is nothing less than GREAT. Im glad my daughter talked me into purchasing one. The Honda CR-V is my first SUV. At first, I was really sceptical about purchasing one, especially with the fear of roll- over. But I must admit that the transition from my 2000 Honda Accord to the 2003 CR-V, was a wonderful experience. Its just like drive a car.

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  Glad I bought it! - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By CarolD. - August 28 - 10:00 am

  Love this SUV! Traded in my 98 Passport that had all the extras on it, but wanted to get into something newer. The ride is smooth and comfortable. Great pick up and feels good on the road. Only complaints...the armrests in the front seat are skimpy and not very comfortable for the larger adult. The interior roof feels and sounds cheap and the patterned seat fabric leaves a bit to be desired...Otherwise, this gets 5 stars from me!

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  good - 2002 Honda Civic
  By adhs - August 28 - 10:00 am

  very good and no need of improvements

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  Great Value - 2004 Honda Civic
  By Sherm - August 28 - 10:00 am

  Car packages your body in a comfortable and safe position. Very good visibility from all angles of the driver position. Excellent fuel economy. Quiet ride except on roughest roads. Climate control is at your fingertips. Radio/CD player provides good quality sound

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  Perfect Car - 2004 Honda Civic
  By madmaddiel - August 28 - 10:00 am

  Great Car, I bought a honda after hearing such good reviews from all honda owners, this was the best car I could hae put my money into, Everything is just where it should be without anything extra to get in the way. I am for sure a Honda customer from now on.

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  Awesome - 2004 Honda Civic
  By notreknipyknip - August 28 - 10:00 am

  Honda Civics are awesome. They are the best cars out there. The power steering works great and it handles well. It definitely draws attention whereever I go.

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  do I like it or dont I? - 2004 Honda Civic
  By lacoursl - August 28 - 10:00 am

  My first manual transmission in almost 4 years. I like to drive it mostly... I hate it when Im stuck in traffic on the highway and its stop then go up to 40 miles an hour then stop. Thats a headache.

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  Honda Civic Hybrid - 2004 Honda Civic
  By MATuckerJaxFL - August 28 - 10:00 am

  Fun to drive, lots of room, great gas mileage, excellent price!!

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  A gentle, smooth and responsive car. - 2004 Honda Civic
  By Harold Trautma - August 28 - 10:00 am

  Outstanding appearance has brought many positive comments from others. Everything works and there are no rattles. Severe bumps give a mild thud rather than a bang and crackle. Steering excelent, responsive and easy. Very good radio with high frequency units up at ear level that is nice for one with a hearing deficit. Interior is larger than I expected and a big trunk space. Engine is very quiet with a very smooth idle.