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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  Simply amazed! - 2004 Honda Civic
  By Fraug - July 17 - 1:56 pm

  A few years ago I would never buy a vehicle that was not an "American" automobile. When gasoline prices began rising early 2004, I was no longer as proud of my American gas-guzzling pickup truck. Though I still need it for my small ranch. Perfect for that! Anyway, the payment for my Civic was almost the same as the cost for the gasoline I was using in my truck for commuting to work. The amount I spend on gasoline now is almost the same as I was spending on my pickup 4 years ago. i am averaging 32- 35 mpg with 73,000 miles. I commute 100 miles total every day. I have had ZERO problems with my Civic!

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  Love it! - 2000 Honda Insight
  By Tania - July 17 - 1:56 pm

  I love this car! We have averaged 62 mpg over the past 8 years, and its been very reliable. The only downfall is dealing with Honda dealerships for purchase and maintenance. They are scam artists - outrageously expensive, not knowledgeable, and terrible customer service.

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  Great car, un-Honda-like problems - 2007 Honda Civic
  By SamN - July 17 - 12:13 pm

  This Honda is not unlike its predecessors in being a quality, reliable ride, equipped with only the most necessary bells a whistles to ensure repairs remain inexpensive. Overall, its a quality car that is easy to drive with a above-Honda-average amount of pick-up. Comfort is an issue for the tall, as has always been the case. My only real complaint is that the interior materials seem cheap, easily showing scratches, wear, oil, and dirt. This is especially worrisome for any leaser. After a year of ownership, some parts of my EX look worse than my former 1991 Civic.

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  Cant Beat it ! - 2008 Honda Element
  By Cant Beat it ! - July 17 - 10:13 am

  It took me 6 months to make up my mind as my 05 Nissan Frontier lease was ending. Looked at all of the econo- boxes, just couldnt do it! Couldnt commit to driving a sardine-can for the next 4-5 years, despite the price of gas. Between my wife and I, weve owned 4 Civics and 1 CR-V over the last years, so dont break up a winning streak, go back to Honda. This is now Honda #6! Excellent little truck, does all I needed and wanted kayaks on roof, r/c sailboat in back, room for the Greyhound too! Didnt need leather, carpet, Bluetooth, MP3 either. Just a dependable, versatile small SUV.Have been watching Elements since they first came out but were too costly in Canada, much better deals in S.FL!

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  very disapointed - 2004 Honda Element
  By michele magrane - July 17 - 10:00 am

  I was so happy for the first several months. Then the windshield cracked from a tiny pebble. Of course, not covered under warranty. But come to find out I am not the only owner complaining about this. There is a recall on the 2003 elements but Honda has not fixed the problem with the 2004 model. check out this website... hondaelementscrack.com for more complaints. And then I recently tried to put in a baby car seat in the back seat and it is impossible to secure safety. I would not recommend this car to anyone.

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  Whata fresh suv - 2004 Honda Element
  By Brian Dra - July 17 - 10:00 am

  After searching forever for a relieable ,fun to drive car..i was introduced to the Element very much by accident..its ugly yes..but boy does it attract attention ..good and bad... I have found many duties for this suv and it has been flawless. This is my first foreign made car.. and i will prolly buy Honda again. I have a 4 year lease on this Element. the only issue is the many scratchs ive seen on what i thought was high quality plastics..inside and out.

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  2004 owner - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By mtchape - July 17 - 10:00 am

  This is our 3rd odyssey and we tow it behind our motorhome for 30-40,000 every 3 years. We have never had any trouble with anything. It always starts, drives and hauls all our "stuff". What a great van!!!!

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  Colors, please - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By JMock - July 17 - 10:00 am

  Great van - it has been a comfortable addition to our 2 child family. Solid and reliable.

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  The Odyssey is the best - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By sophiegirl - July 17 - 10:00 am

  We have had the last 3 vans fords , Airosport ,Windstar ,etc . The Honda Odessey is the best buy far ,there is no comparison!!!!!

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  Great family vehicle - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Don Young - July 17 - 10:00 am

  Fun to drive. Relaxing, good visability, creature comforts abound. Controls well marked and layed out, especialy sound and entertainment system (DVD) and air conditioning.