| Fit ▷ | from $15,425 |
| Civic ▷ | from $17,965 |
| Insight ▷ | from $18,600 |
| CR-Z ▷ | from $19,975 |
| Accord ▷ | from $21,680 |
| CR-V ▷ | from $23,120 |
| Crosstour ▷ | from $27,230 |
| Odyssey ▷ | from $28,825 |
| Ridgeline ▷ | from $29,575 |
| Pilot ▷ | from $29,670 |
Soichiro Honda was an entrepreneur who experienced many setbacks before founding Honda Motor Co. in 1949. Initially, Honda built motorized bicycles. By 1964, they had become the largest motorcycle manufacturer in the world and had released their first vehicles- the T360 mini pick-up truck and the S500 sports car. However, the small cars did not have worldwide appeal.
Honda did not get a foothold in the American car market until the 70s with their release of the Civic (a large car compared to their previous output). The Accord quickly followed and became equally popular. In 1982, Honda opened its first American plant. In 1986, they created the Acura luxury line to compete with American and European luxury brands. They introduced the V-Tec engine that controlled the valves based on whether the driver needed better performance or better fuel efficiency. In the 21st century, Honda’s research is focused on smart engines that improve fuel economy, including cars powered by hydrogen fuel cells, and safety features, such as pre-crash warning systems.
Honda is ranked third best when it comes to overall brand perception. It ranks in the top five for quality, safety, value, and fuel economy. The Civic and Accord are the two most successful models produced by Honda. The Fit, Insight, Pilot, Odyssey, CR-V, and the hybrid CR-Z are also popular.
Honda began by dominating the motorcycle segment of the market. By the 60s, they created trucks that used the motorcycle-style chain-driven rear wheels but have only dabbled in this area. Eventually, they began producing fuel-efficient cars. In the 80s and 90s, they expanded to mid-sized cars and luxury segments. Most recently, they have focused on the minivan, SUV, and hybrid segments.
A CEO, Chairman, and three Directors form Honda’s governing Board. Beneath them are 29 managing directors, directors, executive officers, the Head of General Affairs, and a Chief Operating Officer. Under them are thirty-three senior managing executive officers, managing executive officers, and vice-presidents, including the continent based vice-presidents and managing officers.
Honda sold 1.5 million vehicles in the U.S. alone in 2013 and represented 9.9% of the market share. Worldwide, they continue to show an increase in consolidated unit sales.
Last updated in May 2014. All prices were taken from the manufacturer's website. They're typically suggested retail prices (MSRPs) excluding tax, delivery, title, registration, license, dealer fees and optional equipment.
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