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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  An adults go-cart - 2004 Honda S2000
  By RGPritzlaff - June 9 - 2:00 am

  I thought growing older meant giving up the things of youth..not true. This baby is so much fun to drive it reminds me of my early teens running around my neighborhood in my A-bomb engined go-cart. A great value, I bought mine tax, license, delivery , everything for $33,153. Great handling, minimalist but nice interior.

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  Love My Pilot - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By bradyfan - June 9 - 2:00 am

  Mpg is 15 around town. When back windows are down and the front arent, there is a helicopter sound that almost blows out your eardrums. Got a recall on front airbags (blow out too fast on impact) but dealer couldnt fix problem without new tools to be sent from manufacturer. Has been driven in tons of snow but still have yet to use 4wd. Love interior space in Pilot vs. other mid-size SUVs. 3rd row seat works for 13 yr old who wants her own space. Added after-market DVD player for 1/2 the price, but got Honda run. boards, cross bars, wheel locks. $500 discount from intial contact w/dealer by internet.

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  Sweet!!! - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By dkl - June 9 - 2:00 am

  As an Architect, I fell in love with the Pilots interior...very stylish and adaptable center console. The exterior is a bit boring, but added optional running boards which helps (also a big help for mums to get in). Without kids, I havent used the third row seating, but love the HUGE cargo space for hauling stuff. The ride is tight yet smooth, if occasionally noisy... much improved from my former Explorer. Enjoyed driving in 6" snow this last weekend with the auto 4 wheel drive... and the seat warmers! Sweet!!!

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  great SUV - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By gio99 - June 9 - 2:00 am

  overall the honda CRV is a great SUV.

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  i only buy hondas - 2002 Honda Civic
  By MICHELLE c - June 9 - 2:00 am

  although i have a 4 cylinder it rides very well very economically sufficient for my needs has lots of child saftey features.

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  Great Car - 2004 Honda Civic
  By stickman - June 9 - 2:00 am

  What a great driving experience. This Honda has good mechanics, and good styling also. Fun to drive. Owned a Toyota Celica previously with poor results. Would recommend to all for quality and Totally reliable transportation.

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  Best Car in Its Class - 2004 Honda Civic
  By shaggydude - June 9 - 2:00 am

  I just got a Magnesium Metallic 2004 Civic LX Automatic Sedan. Few things that made me buy this car: - Awesome refinement of the exterior and interior of the car. Sporty bumpers! I wont put some new skirts for a while. Blue speedometer and nice dash! Cool at night. - Built-in features: cruise control, power windows, side mirror, locks, keyless entry, cd player, window antenna - Known good resale value and reliability of Honda Cars - Most of all, got it a grand below invoice price and DC included!! alright! Do your homework! Haggle with the Internet Managers in your area. Goodluck!

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  best car yet - 2004 Honda Civic
  By Boaterman1 - June 9 - 2:00 am

  My daughter bought this car and has now driven 2000 miles. I went along with her for several rides. I found it quiet, and roomy in the passenger seat. When she finally let me drive it, I found it a bit underpowered, but thats a good thing for my Little Miss Leadfoot! All in all, its a stylish, comfortable good quality car. On a 1- 10 I would givr it a 9.

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  FORGET AIR, I COULD LIVE OFF THIS CAR - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Style703 - June 9 - 2:00 am

  I had been eyeing the Accord Coupe for 3 years before I bought one. I loved the old body style but the new one just defines my personality, simple stylish elegance with a touch of "out of the ordinary." Every make and model of new cars has their "lemons" which is how I explain bad reviews of this car. That is the only way I can justify it to myself. I will stick up for the Accord to the grave! I built up this car in my head for years before I bought one and it has yet to disappoint me. Mine has no rattles, handles like a dream and in my opinion is one of the best looking cars on the road.

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  03 Accord Coupe - 2004 Honda Accord
  By dbakes - June 9 - 2:00 am

  After spending 40 years in sales/marketing, corporate policy was big three only. Family and friends had always raved about the quality, reliability and performance of Honda cars. I did considerable research online and in the marketplace and had decided on an Acura 3.2CL"S", then I saw a photo of the new Accord Coupe....I was smitten. The car is everything I expected it to be, marvelous interior and exterior, stiff as the Benz and much more competitively priced. I have very little criticism of this car. Still park it in the far corner of parking lots, no nicks and dings yet! It is a head turner!