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:

• 

  Awesome car!!! - 2004 Honda Element
  By Kristine - July 21 - 2:00 am

  This SUV is really great! Even though its the same engine like the CR-V, this car has style and looks. Has a lot of room and i can actally put something big in the trunk. Even though the exterior looks like its a box, it beats the toyota scion looking more like a BOX. This ride is for more young ones. The price is affordable.

• 

  Love my Honda Element! - 2004 Honda Element
  By katansey - July 21 - 2:00 am

  Driving an Element is like living in a light-filled cabin on wheels. It can go anywhere, turn on a dime, and can be configured to handle anything from a large armoire to people to surfboards. I am not a car person, but this little car has captured my heart! Sleeping in it on a camping trip is a treat -- you can see the stars through the skylight over your head.

• 

  the funny looking Honda - 2004 Honda Element
  By sa1ymander - July 21 - 2:00 am

  I really did not think I would like this vehicle, I was SO wrong. I owned a Lexus previously, and quite frankly was sick of the payment. My Honda Element is so roomy and it is the smartest thing I have done in a long time. The gas mileage is awesome. I truly love it.

• 

  It works for me - 2004 Honda Element
  By Craig O - July 21 - 2:00 am

  I had seen an ad for the Element about six months prior to its release and was impressed by the look. As soon as I had driven one and saw the roomy interior I was sold. I have three big dogs and they all fit comfortably inside. Clean up is a breeze. I have been on a couple road trips and found that the Element handles great on the Interstate and the milage was a bit higher than what was on the sticker. All in all it was the vehicle I was looking for at this time. I rather enjoy the strange looks I still get when I drive past.

• 

  Honda Element - 2004 Honda Element
  By RFC - July 21 - 2:00 am

  Ive had my Element for 10 months and I enjoy it today as much as the first week I had it.I consider it a true sport utility vehicle. The way the seats fold up make the rear space very usable. The seats also easily come out more space. The interior is rugged and the all season mats are a must for this type of SUV. In deep snow its unstoppable with its unique 4 wheel drive system. I have had no problems with it at all and have only had it back to the dealer for oil changes and tire rotation. The long list of available options only add to the fun of owning and driving this very unique and reliable SUV.

• 

  E-Review - 2004 Honda Element
  By WLC - July 21 - 2:00 am

  FUN TO DRIVE, acceptable fuel economy. Does not like crosswinds, or rough/uneven surfaces, otherwise has a very surefooted feeling and easy to drive. It has swallowed everything that I have thrown at it easily, from tons of luggage to wheelchairs,etc. ), and a standard radio that plays MP3s. When I drive, I am in my ELEMENT, I love it...

• 

  fun to drive - 2004 Honda Element
  By godzilla - July 21 - 2:00 am

  i love my element.traveling is a breeze.i can tote 12 foot ladders!!!i look seriously cool in it!!

• 

  Very satisfied!! - 2004 Honda Element
  By Hollifer - July 21 - 2:00 am

  I love my Element. I have two large dogs. It handles like a car but is like a large van inside when I put my sits up. The seats are also light enough for me to put in or out by myself.Its large enough to sit four comfortably and still bring my dogs along!

• 

  EX Element - 2003 Honda Element
  By lkeough - July 21 - 2:00 am

  It handles, corners and accelerates like a sports car. Polyurethane flooring, sleeping accommodations, removable back seats make a for a highly versatile vehicle -- SUV, van and truck. Best vehcile Ive ever owned.

• 

  Car - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Johnsnh - July 21 - 2:00 am

  Best ever. The most comfortable drive. The "Best Buy"