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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  Its a keeper - 2003 Honda Accord
  By chrisL - June 15 - 10:00 am

  Our last car was the current model VW Passat. Nice car, but highly problematic. Our new Accord is head and shoulders above the Passat. Honda realized that folks want the feel and performance of a German car. The Accord hits this target with a totally un- Honda feel in all the right ways. Steering, handling, and powertrain work with the precision of a fine German car. The 4-cylinder is smooth and powerful; the auto transmission is razor sharp and always selects the right gear. The car has great passing power and brakes to match. Having owned the Passat and having test-driven Camry and Mazda6, the new Accord is better in every way.

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  Best bang for your buck. - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Badamthegreat1 - June 15 - 10:00 am

  I spent a few months researching all different types of cars before making my final decision. I found that the EX V6 Coupe had the perfect mix of performance, comfort, and economy for my tastes.

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  The best Honda Ever - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Heidar - June 15 - 10:00 am

  This car is totally different with previous version (I owned a 2002 accord coupe). Mine has lots of power and feels like a German car. I enjoy driving it everywhere. I always bought Honda because of the market value but this time I think I made a good choice.

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  Fun Car - 2004 Honda Accord
  By samm97 - June 15 - 10:00 am

  Impressive car, surprising 4 cylinder, feels like a small 6. comfortable, easy to drive, responsive handling, comfortable on small trips . ( havent done any long trips yet.)Head light ilumination great. Steering wheel radio controls great! Back seat has enough leg rm( Im 6 foot tall) I Love this car! so much fun to drive!

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  Love it!!!!! - 2004 Honda Accord
  By accord_rocks - June 15 - 10:00 am

  Just got a 2004 Accord coupe ex-V6. have been driving it and it just doesnt wanna stop! if you are into big engines, this one is the way to go. simply, no regrets.

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  Fun and great quality for great price! - 2006 Honda CR-V
  By Vicky - June 15 - 6:53 am

  I just bought my 06 CRV SE and I couldnt be happier! I traded in my 99 Civic EX and could not believe how much I loved the CRV. It doesnt drive like a typical SUV, much more like a car. Would HIGHLY suggest upgrading to the Special Edition if your budget allows. Leather really gives interior a classier and more professional look. Drives great in heavy rain also, I felt very safe. Time will tell on gas mileage. I shopped around a lot and the Honda dealers were definitely the most honest and straight forward. Overall, very happy with my purchase.

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  Wow - 1998 Honda Prelude
  By Jason - June 14 - 10:58 pm

  Youre in a front wheel drive car... You floor it at the light and make your left turn with your foot to the floor, yet there is no tire squeal and the car just pulls you through the turn with a serious growl, you steer even harder left and the back slowly starts to kick out. Is this car rear wheel drive or did Honda truly fix front wheel drive understeer. The latter. Every front wheel drive car should have ATTS! So much fun to drive!

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  Go twice as far for half as much - 2006 Honda Insight
  By Matt - June 14 - 8:52 pm

  If you have a long commute to work like I do, this is the car for you. I have a 120 mile round trip each day from work. I was driving a blazer before gas was even breaking $2.00/gal and was spending more each month on gas then my car payment. I still have the blazer, because I live in New England, and this car will not get you out of the snow. It has smooth pick up, and at 75-80mph I still average 52mpg. You cant beat that.

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  Unbelieveable - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By HondaIsMyFriend - June 14 - 1:46 pm

  I have driven the CRV about 1000 miles now, and I love it. Its ride is much smoother than my previous CRV, and it is so luxurious! If youre looking for a smaller SUV, I highly recommend taking this one!

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  Ulility & Function in Form - 2006 Honda Element
  By Grannuma - June 14 - 1:12 pm

  This SUV is I feel the only correctly named machine in the SUV market. Like the Range rovers of the past these are purpose built no frills and reliable.