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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  My - 2003 Honda Element
  By Sara98 - August 20 - 2:00 am

  When I first saw the Element I thought it looked like a mini Brinks armored truck. It drives like a car with smooth acceleration, a tight turning radius and lacks the tippy-feeling of most SUVs. The suicide doors make access to the childs car seat in the back easy except in tight parking stalls. Its got great head and leg room in the front, and the reclining seats in the back allow 64" people to ride comfortably. The stereo thumps, the rubber floors are easy to clean, and the rear privacy glass are all bonuses with the Element. I also like the fact that its quite short (I have extra room in the garage). I love my Element.

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  Love it - 2003 Honda Element
  By mmdaltx - August 20 - 2:00 am

  love the price and durable feel to the interior fabric and flooring.

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  Great but not perfect - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By RichL - August 20 - 2:00 am

  This van puts both our 95 & 98 Grand Caravans to shame. The seat heaters should turn off with key. Interior noise is only major complaint. This car should be much quieter. Have 3 kids, so a split folding rear seat would be appreciated (Like upcoming 04 Sienna). Plenty of power and cornering ability. At this price, full roof rack, fog lamps, auto headlamps, power antenna, hood struts, should be standard. Would buy another one.

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  Excellent buy - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By herran - August 20 - 2:00 am

  Top Minivan for reliability and performance

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  Total disappointment - 2001 Honda Civic
  By C@W - August 20 - 2:00 am

  I got this car because I did a TON of research on safety, reliability and gas milage. I never bought a new car before and wanted to be sure I got the best car to drive my infant daughter around in. The first thing that aggravated me was that the fuel economy, which was a HUGE factor in my decision, was listed at 30city/38hwy - WHAT A LIE. I get about 25-28. I have brought it to two dealerships at least 4 times to ask them to find out why the milage is so low - they said they couldnt find anything wrong. Then I had several manufacturing defections, including a wire that opens the fuel hatch that had snapped. I cant wait to trade this in.

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  NO MORE SUVS - 2002 Honda Civic
  By MYMOTHER!!! - August 20 - 2:00 am

  i have owned trucks and SUVs my whole life. This is the first car i have bought. I love it. It has a great power band and shifts real easy. I love the styling. The interior is awesome. Im 63" and I fit well. I love the fact that it comes with almost everything. Im just starting to commute far and the mileage seems to be getting better with each tank. My girlfriend did not like it at first glance. She has a 209HP Dodge Intrepid. After she drove it once, she wants to trade. By the way, I can take the Dodge off the line and definately through corners. Do not pay full price for this. You can get one for under $16000.

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  Tickled - 2003 Honda Civic
  By Si-ren - August 20 - 2:00 am

  After MUCH research, I bought a 2003 Civic Si a few weeks ago and couldnt be more tickled. "Pearl" seems to read my mind. I can only liken driving this car to riding a good horse -- we seem to read each other and become one. I havent gotten used to the funky exterior styling (at 39, Im a bit older than most purchasers of this vehicle) but it still gets plenty of looks and the inside makes me feel like Im in an expensive sports car. Im getting in the low 20s for mpg, but thats with my foot in it -- a lot. Handles like a dream. I like that there arent a zillion of them on the road. This is my third Civic. Guess Im a lifer. Two thumbs up, Honda.

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  Poor cargo option - 2016 Honda Odyssey
  By Dan - August 20 - 12:53 am

  Middle seats are supposed to come out for cargo hauling. I find it impossible to get them in or out without dealer assistance even with the user manual. Why make the seat design too difficult for users to operate? On that subject, the entertainment center is way too complex for the driver to navigate while driving. Surprised that Honda would do this. These items put a big damper on an otherwise nice vehicle.

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  4 years of Ownership....Nice to own - 2004 Honda S2000
  By GeoPoko - August 19 - 10:41 pm

  Have lived with my S2000 for 4 years and almost 28k miles. Sporty car, perfect transmission, nice fit and finish and Honda reliability (zero problems). This is a car for people that want a sports car. Not a sporty car. Not luxury sports car. The car is exactly what Honda intended and it is perfect at that job. Only regrets are living "up north" and having to park it 3 months a year. The summers are great, top down almost every drive home for 5 months.

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  Color me HAPPY! - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By Karen Walsh - August 19 - 5:20 pm

  Excellent Value... Great performance.