What luxury brand does Honda own?
Acura.
Acura is the luxury vehicle division of Honda Motor Co., formed in 1986 to compete in premium segments and distinguished by a focus on refined interior comfort, advanced technology, and performance-oriented engineering. Today, Acura operates as Honda’s upscale marque in many markets worldwide, separate from the mainstream Honda lineup.
Background and brand positioning
To understand Honda’s premium strategy, it helps to know how Acura fits into the company's lineup and market approach.
Origins
Acura was launched in 1986 in North America as Honda's response to established luxury brands, marking the debut of Japan's first luxury automobile marque.
Global strategy
Though rooted in Honda’s engineering, Acura operates with its own branding, dealer network, and product cadence designed to appeal to buyers seeking premium features, performance, and distinctive design language.
Key facts about Acura:
- Founded: 1986 by Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
- Parent company: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
- Global markets: North America, Asia, Europe, and beyond
- Notable models: NSX (hybrid supercar), MDX, RDX, ILX
- Brand positioning: Honda’s luxury/mid-luxe marque with a focus on performance and technology
Acura remains Honda’s luxury brand, operating as a distinct marque with shared engineering roots but separate design language, features, and customer experience tailored to premium buyers.
Summary
Acura is the luxury brand owned by Honda. Since its 1986 inception, Acura has served as Honda’s premium division, delivering a blend of performance, comfort, and technology across a global lineup.
