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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  1995 Honda Accord LX - 1995 Honda Accord
  By dee - April 14 - 10:00 am

  I love the body of this vehicle....it is in excellent condition. Drives great/

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  1995 Honda Accord LX - 1995 Honda Accord
  By Dee - April 14 - 10:00 am

  I love the body of this vehicle....it is in excellent condition. Drives great/

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  Heaven Sent - 1997 Honda Accord
  By val - April 14 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle has been heaven sent. First owner and vehicle now has about 53,000 miles, and never experienced one mechanical problem. Prior, owned a little civic hatchback and same history, never one mechanical problem. As a woman, I thank the heavens for this vehicle, never leaving me stalled, brokedown or anything unexpectedly going out on me especially on the road. I feel safe with my honda. Thanks Honda!

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  Heaven Sent - 1997 Honda Accord
  By Val - April 14 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle has been heaven sent. First owner and vehicle now has about 53,000 miles, and never experienced one mechanical problem. Prior, owned a little civic hatchback and same history, never one mechanical problem. As a woman, I thank the heavens for this vehicle, never leaving me stalled, brokedown or anything unexpectedly going out on me especially on the road. I feel safe with my honda. Thanks Honda!

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  2000 Civic Si - 1999 Honda Civic
  By mckrooz - April 14 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car new in 00. This car is an absolute blast to drive. The VTEC just sings at 5500rpm. Throw on an AEM intake and look out. Sounds like a beast! Dont settle for the SOHC. Go all the way for DOHC. The car is very quick and responsive. It handles well. The stock Michelens are absolute crap! Needs wider tires from the factory. Seats are not to supportive considering Im buying the "sporty" version.

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  No other van comes close!! - 2002 Honda Odyssey
  By Troutking - April 14 - 10:00 am

  Well worth the wait!! I drove just about every van on the market and decided nothing compares with the Odyssey. No rebates, discounts or special financing could change my mind either. This is a great, intelligently thought out van. It drives like a sports car and is extremely versatile for the family. Hauled the family and 2 dogs (1 being a Great Dane) on a 9hr. trip with no problems. Every other van manufacturer has alot of catching up to do!! This is THE MINIVAN for the "NON- MINIVAN" person!!!

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  our second - 2002 Honda Odyssey
  By Adam Blayton - April 14 - 10:00 am

  This is our second Odyssey. It replaced an 00. This one doesnt penalize me when I drive it.. our other cars are a 99 Prelude SH and 01 Acura CL.

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  Best SUV for the Money Anywhere! - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By kellnron - April 14 - 10:00 am

  We took a beating by trading a 2001 Subaru H6 Outback LL Bean edition to buy this model and I still dont regret it. The transmission is smooth as silk (unlike the Subaru). It rides on the highway very smoothly & quietly (I dont miss the crossbar wine of the Subaru). It has plent of cargo space for anything and the 7-passenger seating is great. Everyone in my family wants one after they have driven it. Honda hit the nail right on the head with this one, its a great value.

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  Well worth the buy! - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By akschaf - April 14 - 10:00 am

  I just took delivery of my new pilot on Monday 10/07/02. What a vehicle! I just took it on a 292 mile road trip and would you believe I received 23.8 miles per gallon with speeds between 60-70 mph. we only used 12.2 gallons of gas. Honda has done a great job on this vehicle. Very very comfortable. We are a former 1996 Honda EX Passport owner. This was a good vehicle, very few problems, we bought it certified with 15,000 miles on it. During ownership we put approx 60,000 miles on it. There is no comparison with the Honda pilot. We are truely pleased with our decision to buy the Pilot.

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  An awesom car! - 2001 Honda Accord
  By mc1223 - April 14 - 10:00 am

  I used to drive a Jetta which I loved, but decided to go with a Honda after my friend put 179k on her 89 Accord, which ran incredible. I have a 02 Accord EX Coupe (only 4cyl), which could be faster, but thats what performance intakes and exhaust systems are for. Its extremely comfortable and rides very smooth. Gas mileage is good, which helps me with the amount of miles I put on it. The car is good looking, which will turn heads once I finish with the work I am doing to it. Bottom line...this car will run forever if you take car of it and is one of the most reliable cars out there. Resale value is also excellent.