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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  Natalie is in her Element - 2004 Honda Element
  By Ed - July 7 - 1:46 pm

  Outstanding car in nearly every way. Greatest car-camper weve ever had. Seat belt retractor needs help so it doesns stick in door. Dealer network leaves something to be desired for aftermarket additions.

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  safe car - 2005 Honda Accord
  By hondaowner - July 7 - 11:33 am

  Was hit in right front by driver passing light. Airbag (side and seat) deployed perfectly. No significant injury in hard hit. Happy to have the side airbags. Very user friendly and ergonomic controls, best I have ever had. Stiff ride, could be a bit lighter sprung for comfort, but may impede handling. Has a "big" feel, not a sporty small car feel. 5 speed is not smooth, and downshifts when braking are noticeable. Air comes on with a clunk when first put on. Brakes are feathery and needs a light touch, same with accelerator, but stops and goes well. Acceleration is very good with automatic, highway ride is smooth and sure footed.

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  Best ever dog crate! - 2005 Honda Element
  By kmagman - July 7 - 9:56 am

  I really LOVE this Element. I have 3 Australian Shepherds who travel everywhere with me and I can fit 3 dogs crates in the back with no problem. Cleaning the interior is easy. The Element handles well, handles mountain grades with ease and has reasonable fuel economy at 23-24 mpg. Great ski vehicle too!

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  Love It! - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By JHP - July 7 - 8:24 am

  I love the CRV. Gas mileage averages in town around 24 mpg, while on highway Ive gotten as high as 30 mpg. Large enough for soccer games and all that we need, yet small enough that maneuvering is similar to driving a small car. Reliability wise, its a Honda - enough said! Seats could be a little more comfortable, but for the price this is a great automobile. Love the Heating/AC controls, and cruise is conveniently on steering wheel. Perfect vehicle for everyday tasks, and also fits the bill for travel.

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  Fun car to drive - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Dupang2 - July 6 - 8:33 pm

  This is a nice looking car and also fun to drive. Although its small for 5 adults, but how many times you have 5 people in the car anyway. I also ave. 29-30 miles per gallon, city. I havent tried highway yet. The 140 horse is not bad too, a little slow on the start, but when it goes you wont be disappointed. Just remember its only 140 horse not 240. The interior is not bad too. Something different. Im glad I bought this car. Honda USA did agood job.

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  A Drivers car - 2006 Honda S2000
  By Raymond A. Miller - July 6 - 8:31 pm

  This Honda is a no nonsense performer. Great grip and predictable control. Super acceleration. All controls at fingertips while hands are on the steering wheel. Every detail has been well and logically thought out and planned. Since its inception in 2000, the machine has been improved every successive year.

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  Just Right - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By hondaguy - July 6 - 3:36 pm

  I love this SUV but Im going to tell you the few things that I didnt like. Theres not a key lock on the tailgate. You have to always use the remote to open. It feels like a big car, which means you have its not as nimble as I would like. Theres a lot of windnoise when the crossbars are installed. The drivers side window has an automatic roll up mechanism which seems like a safety hazard to me.

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  Best car that Ive had in years! - 2005 Honda Civic
  By Sandi - July 6 - 3:30 pm

  A friend purchased the Civic Hybrid the first year they were made. She is still driving and loving it. I was impressed and decided to try it. Like many people I was disappointed in my mileage during the first couple of months but I read the message boards and learned that it would increase with time and my experience with driving a hybrid. It has. I average 45-52 mpg. I seldom have to get gas but when I do, I smile the whole time. Other cars may get great gas mileage but I have that along with Honda reliabilty and safety. This is a great value for the money!

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  A Fun Car - 2005 Honda S2000
  By Gary Strong - July 6 - 1:23 pm

  This is the most enjoyable car I have ever owned. Being 60, I have owned plenty. The car goes through a transformation as you increase the RPMs. It transforms, around 5000 rpms, into a true sports machine, with lots of power and excellent control.

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  Amazing Car - 2002 Honda Accord
  By Juan Adames - July 6 - 12:44 pm

  This car is amazing. Great design, reliability, comfort, power, interior, durability and so......... It is incredible, and really gas economic for being a v6. I live in Puerto Rico and here the roads are rough and a lot of curves and hills, but this car respond with a lot of energy and without restrictions. Nice car, just PERFECT