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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  I love this Civic - 2003 Honda Civic
  By Molly Jo - June 22 - 10:00 am

  Whenever I go through drive through restaurants, people ask me about this car. What gets them talking initially is that the gear shift doesnt rise from the floor but from out of the dashboard. This cars got so much pickup -- owing to the V-TEC engine and the relatively light weight. I owned another Honda Civic Hatchback for about 10 years prior to buying this one.

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  Gentle Car - 2003 Honda Civic
  By LJS - June 22 - 10:00 am

  This is the gentlest car that Ive driven. There is no excess of shifting from the transmission. The micro filter is a lung saver when in heavy traffic, it eliminates all smells. The air conditioning can almost compete with my refrigerator, it is a life saver in the hot weather months. The best part of my purchase of this car is the fact that it saves me time by not visiting fuel pumps weekly and by having the cars oil changed. My time is worth more then money and this car is saving me time. This has been one of the best purchases Ive made in a long time. Thank you!

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  Best Ever - 2003 Honda Accord
  By sercatmb1 - June 22 - 10:00 am

  Great Car. Reliable, fun, versatile

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  Honda Believer - 2003 Honda Accord
  By DeyDey - June 22 - 10:00 am

  My second Accord. Previous was 1990 coupe. The 2003 is more comfortable and quieter with a softer ride but feels less sporty than the 1990. The car feels very safe to drive and is easy to control. The 4cyl 160 hp has a lot of pep from the start but slower to accelerate at hwy speeds, probably due to the computer controlled throttle which Honda claims maximizes your mpg (the 6cyl is still a direct cable), however, I get approx 28 mpg avg with 60/40 hwy/city driving! Overall a very well thought out machine and easy on the environment, another winner!

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  I love mine - 2003 Honda Accord
  By DonA - June 22 - 10:00 am

  Extremely fun car to drive. Very responsive, but could use some work in the handling department. Otherwise sharp design especially with the OEM bodykit. Very nice comfortable interior design as well.

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  Best Accord Ever - 2003 Honda Accord
  By adrienne - June 22 - 10:00 am

  I love this car! I originally liked it because the more rounded tail lights; it almost looks like the Mercedes coupe from behind b/c they have the same lights. When I got in my car for the first time to drive it I fell in love with it! The interior is GREAT, and everything looks a little different than the previous models so its a good change. The way it drives is probably what sold me. Its VERY smooth and comfortable; not jerky when the gears change or bouncy. Also, this years seats also seem more comfortable.

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  my 3rd oddssey - 2016 Honda Odyssey
  By Jeffrey Williams - June 22 - 7:13 am

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  First impressions - 2008 Honda Odyssey
  By Off A Cough - June 21 - 9:54 pm

  We lost our 2007 Caravan Special Edition to another driver who didnt understand the word "stop". While Ive always felt Chrysler wins hands-down in the innovation department, I was leery of purchasing a 2008 model due to this being the first year of a major overhaul. The 2008 also lost some aesthetic points that it once had over the Ody (IMHO). The Ody wins hands-down in interior quality. The leather is nicer, the seats are more comfortable, and the fit and finish is better (but still not perfect). The Ody is still breaking in, so too early to tell on mileage. Acceleration is smooth. The vehicle is larger inside and out compared to Chrysler, so watch your parking/garage issues.

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  Great - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Gregg - June 21 - 9:36 pm

  I have found the Honda Accord to be an awesome car. I have never owned a Honda before, but really have found it to be great. The room inside the car is outstanding. I am 6 ft 7in tall and have plenty of room. My family of 5 can comfortably ride in this car.

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  My Accord Stinks - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Lorraine - June 21 - 9:20 pm

  Since buying my Accord in Oct 2002 I have had a terrible sulfur odor. It seems to be worse during the winter. The catalytic converter was replaced at just over 3000 miles. The dealership discounts the odor to California emissions since the car was made there. I had always heard how great Hondas were. I doubt that I would ever buy another Honda. I also have complained about my brakes. The car is going back in for the second time to have the brakes repaired.