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:

• 

  One Great Car - 2004 Honda Accord
  By treasman - August 27 - 2:00 am

  It is like driving a luxury vehicle for a moderate price. Not one problem since I drove the vehicle off the lot 8 months ago.

• 

  i love my 04 accord v6 coupe - 2004 Honda Accord
  By masccat - August 27 - 2:00 am

  i love the 240 horsepower, the handling - especially in the rain, the ride is smooth, quiet, great stereo system, i would buy this car all over again.

• 

  You Got to Love this one - 2004 Honda Accord
  By MaddiePatterson - August 27 - 2:00 am

  There is not much to not love about this car. I really enjoy it and the looks I get when driving down the road. The kids fight over who is going to drive when the family goes somewhere together and they are always trying to get mom to let them borrow the car.

• 

  Jordans review - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Jordan Y. - August 27 - 2:00 am

  Its my first car, great performance but it could have a option for a semi- aotumatic transmission.

• 

  Great first car - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Jordan r - August 27 - 2:00 am

  This car is great and probably the most enjoyable car i have ever driven. Even if i drive my moms caddy its just not the same. There is just something the accord offers that others dont. The handling could be a little sharper, but after putting on 18 inch chrome wheels and a set of 225/40/18 z-rated tires it can cut through corners with an amazing imptovement.

• 

  A Car to Love - 2004 Honda Accord
  By MrLucky7 - August 27 - 2:00 am

  this is my 12th honda product and they just keep getting better and better this 2004 EX is averging 24-25 mpg around town and is faster than my 1998 that averaged 22-24 mpg I dont know how they do it but I am loving it I just retired from sales and used to average 30 - 50,000 miles per year and have only used hondas since 1983 and have never been let down !

• 

  As Expected - 2005 Honda Accord
  By Accordingly - August 27 - 12:03 am

  My 4th Honda and 1st Accord. Not having too much success w/ my previous purchases (especially the unreliable 01 Civic EX) I decided to give the Accord a try. Overall its a very good car. After driving it 3k miles, I find the car to not excel in any one area, but neither are their any deficiencies. Its quiet, comfortable, safe, peppy, attractive, with great gas mileage for a 3,500 pound car. The brakes are mediocare at best (and far TOO sensitive...they grab abruptly at low speeds, at times so hard causing the seat belts to lock). Other than that Im pleased with my purchase.

• 

  Pleasant Surprise - 2008 Honda Accord
  By HK - August 26 - 8:40 pm

  Ive owned two Camrys and two Avalons and all were great cars. Never considered an Accord because they were smaller. However, 2008 Accord is bigger so I took a look. After a test drive, I was sold. The car is very comfortable, the steering is tight and precise. Similar to what youd find in a higher priced sports sedan. The navigation system and bluetooth are great and easy to use. Between the AM-FM and XM radio, the 6 disc changer and MP3 plug- in, I have "entertainment overload". On top of this, Im averaging 34 mpg highway. The only complaint is that there is a pronounced road noise on rough roads. Overall, best car ever. If youre thinking of buying one, just do it.

• 

  LOVE IT - 2006 Honda Element
  By JACK - August 26 - 10:59 am

  I do a lot of mountain driving. For a 4 banger this vehicle has a lot of pep. i removed the back seats to accommodate the load I usually carry. Tons of room! I love the smooth engine. The only con I can think of is that it pulls to the right because of torque on the front drive wheels. the right drives more than the left.

• 

  Hondas Rule! - 1998 Honda Accord
  By nutty-1 - August 26 - 10:00 am

  I bought my 98 Accord after my 92 with 100M miles was totalled (also had a 87 CRX which I traded for my first Accord). It really didnt feel like the same quality from the start (i.e. noisy engine, air conditioner) but it is still super reliable, quality transportation. Became a bit small with two children and car seats but Im fearful whatever I get to replace it will never measure up.