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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  Great Car - 2016 Honda Pilot
  By ar martin - October 2 - 4:47 am

  It is everything I expected and more, I think it should have a satellite system

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  First Car - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Mrs. P - October 1 - 12:33 pm

  Son just graduated from college and chose this car for his first car purchase. Its a black beauty with comfy leather seats. Interior very high end, exterior very upscale look. I like the coupe style better than sedan. Having previously owned two Lexus vehicles, I think this is a comparable car at a much better price. Also, Im impressed with all the safety features. Sound system is great too. Now Im jealous of my sons car, maybe Ill part with my 2001 Subaru Forester and get myself a Honda!!

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  Not as good as I hoped - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By pdxcrv - October 1 - 11:20 am

  I have had my CRV for about a week and have put on about 600 miles. The fuel economy stinks for a 4 cylinder! I am averaging just around 20 MPG. The average meter moves up very slowly on the freeways and I seemed to max out at 21 MPG. However, it plummets rapidly when driving in the city getting around 15MPG. This is a lot worse than the 2008 Equinox that I was driving and it was a V6 with a lot more power and interior room. The other reviews are correct about the limited storage option in the CRV. Honda really needs to put in a coin holder. The three slots that are at knee level are small and difficult to access. Actually, they are kind of useless.

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  Love it - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By HondaMommy - October 1 - 10:00 am

  With two children, age 4 and 13, I love this vehicle. I never thought I would be caught dead in a minivan, but I must admit, this is a cool van. My kids both love it and dont mind the long trips anymore.

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  DADO - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By Arsen - October 1 - 10:00 am

  Its a good car. I love it!

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  Yes a Honda SUV - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By work999 - October 1 - 10:00 am

  Same quality as the rest of the honda fleet. Great comfort and workmanship. Best all around car I have had. I call it a car because I never intend to go off road. I just like the fit of a SUV because I am 64" tall

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  try before you buy - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By dinosaur - October 1 - 10:00 am

  On paper an excellent choice; reasonable prices, outstanding reliability, high resale. I find the driving position very poor. Front leg room is VERY tight for anyone of average height. Front seats are very hard and flat;the worst Ive had on a new vehicle. Engine and transmission are very smooth and quick. Car is built very well, no squeaks or rattles. Incredible number of storage bins. Ride quality is quite rough; youll feel every tar strip and expansion joint; does improve somewhat with more passengers. Road noise is very high and the sound of a hard rain on the roof is incredibly loud. Body roll is pronounced. Overall, not fun to drive

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  Outstanding Vehicle - Cant Go Wrong - 2003 Honda Accord
  By bluto408 - October 1 - 10:00 am

  After owning this vehicle for 1.5 year, I can truly say that Honda builds an outstanding vehicle. I get consistantly 28+ MPG, even when driving it hard, and it is exceptionally quiet and comfortable. Additionally, this is a DRIVERS car, not your standard sedan. Performs like a sports car.

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  Great Car - 1998 Honda Accord
  By rlb - September 30 - 9:06 pm

  This is the best auto I have owned over the last 25 years. I never have any concerns for my safety or for that of my sons. It is fun to drive, handles well, and gets great gas mileage.

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  nice van with some quirks - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By luando - September 30 - 7:03 pm

  No regrets spending $36.5K. It drives and handles better than our Volvo S70 GLT 98. Gas mileage is between 16- 21.5 mpg with 1,400 miles on odometer. Brakes could/should be more powerful to stop this hefty car. Steering is precise and not overly light but brakes feel vague.