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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  Perfect Roadster - 2006 Honda S2000
  By Hondo - May 20 - 3:17 pm

  If you are after a true roadster, then this "is" the car. I have owned it now for two years, and each time I get in it, its as if it was the very first test drive of the car, never loses the excitement. For a roadster, this car is very comfortable, tightly put together, and perfect handling and response. I really get on it on the curves, and have still yet to find its limit, thank God. The rigidity for a convertible is amazing. You want Fun, drop the top and find some curves.

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  Very Impressed - 2001 Honda Accord
  By xoquixxoqafxo - May 20 - 10:45 am

  Used to drive a 93 Honda Civic sedan and this car feels like a luxury car next to the civic. Dont get me wrong, i kind of wish i still had the civic b/c of todays gas prices but overall, this car is a nice change. The V6 engine is so unbelievably smooth but it is also FAST, and chirping the front tires at a stoplight is not a difficult thing to do. I love the handling as well, I have also driven a Toyota Camry and that car feels downright mushy next to the accord. I am a bit concerned with the failing transmissions with this generation but i recently had the fluid flushed and it has shifted smoothly since I bought it. I bought this car from the orig owner and Im very pleased with it.

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  Finally got my Honda truck - 2008 Honda Ridgeline
  By Michelle - May 20 - 7:09 am

  My husband and I always said, "If Honda would just make a truck." Up until now, we had another make and no reason to get a new one. However, with the great deals around, we just had to trade in the 3 year old Tacoma. We use our truck basically to take trash to the dump and, occasionally, to get building supplies. We were pleased with the comfort and great ride in the Base RT model, and, since its not our regular car, decided to get it. I LOVE THIS TRUCK...best we have ever owned. As a Honda/Acura loyal family, we finally got the truck we wanted, too!

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  Just what you expect from Honda - 2017 Honda CR-V
  By Rob - May 20 - 2:20 am

  2017 redesigned CRV is right on the mark. I highly recommend the EXL model; it is loaded with the latest technology and features. The safety features are one of the main reasons I purchased a new vehicle. The CRV is practical, economical yet fun and easy to drive. Expect to enjoy this vehicle for many years to come.

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  I love it!! - 2008 Honda Ridgeline
  By newlife08 - May 19 - 11:07 pm

  In 1992 I drove a brand new GMC straight off the lot, 1st new truck ever bought, ended up with 273,588 miles when I sold it, clean as a whistle, best truck I ever bought. Did a lot of home work and decided to buy the Ridegline, best decision I ever made. I love it, parallel parks like a dream, will tow everything I need as I plan to a small trailer for my dog & I to hit the road feeling very safe and secure in the fact that what could be better than a Honda?? I havent even got a oil change yet! Plus its SO SASSY! The dealer was great service was stellar and I Love IT, better than ever.

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  Reliable, Great MPG, Perfect color - 1997 Honda Accord
  By sadtoseeitgo - May 19 - 7:44 pm

  This car was 2 years old when we bought it. Loved the look & at the time it was a good fit for us however due to back trouble I have to find a vehicle that sits up a little higher. No complaints about this car otherwise. We get about 23 MPG in town. IN LOVE with the color somewhere between silver & gold. Compared to my sisters Camry of the same year the Honda paint job has held up better. We have kept all scheduled maintenance up, so this will be a great car for its new owner. Also I think this is still a very attractive car

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  As Close To Perfection As Possible - 2008 Honda Accord
  By KUMARSYNC - May 19 - 7:16 pm

  I was shopping for a nice fuel efficient midsize and looked at Camry, Altima, and Accord. The super-large 08 Accord was a no-brainer. It seems to be inspired by the $53k Acura RL w/its massive size and well placed and engineered controls. I cant think of a single bad thing to say about this car. It handles excellent, has a rump shaken sound system, plenty of power even from its I-4 and looks to die for. This car is worth every penny and more.

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  My fit - 2007 Honda Fit
  By jbadams - May 19 - 6:47 pm

  Great sporty little car. A lot of interior room.Looks small on the outside but a lot on the inside. I put a 8 ft book case in back. The car handles excellent. Great cornering ans stability.The gas mileage less than advertised.30 mpg on highway and about 26 in town. Still ok but a lot less than advertised. In the winter time the windows fog up very easily. Very frustrating.

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  Love it to death - 1996 Honda Passport
  By Honda Man - May 19 - 1:55 pm

  I have a 96 Passport with 218,000 and counting. Mechanical issues have been almost non existent. I use it to drive on the beach, pull my trailer and it has been on several family vacations. Most wonderful vehicle I have ever owned Honda buyer for life.

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  Mousetrap - 2007 Honda Pilot
  By N - May 19 - 1:52 pm

  The Pilot was great, and I certainly would not have traded it in, but the mice decided to make it home. They had no problem getting in and out of the interior, which doesnt work with a young child. Other than that and the poor gas mileage (15 MPG) I liked the car. I do not have the same rodent problem with my 07 Ridgeline