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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  New Owner of Used CRV - 2000 Honda CR-V
  By New2hondas - January 19 - 8:23 pm

  Recently bought a used EX in great condition and 68k miles. Runs like a champ and very easy to drive. The quality is so top rate - and maybe the previous owner took good care of the car - that it scarcely feels used. Now I know when people say that Honda builds good vehicles.

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  Honda Listened to its Customers - 2013 Honda Accord
  By aviationguy - January 19 - 5:23 pm

  Im very pleased with my new metallic beige EX-L. I had bought a 2009 Civic because I didnt like the 8th generation Accords at all, but when I saw what Honda did with the 9th generation Accord, I had to have one. For me, coming from a noisy, teeth-jarringly bumpy Civic, my new Accord feels like pure luxury.

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  My first Honda - 2007 Honda Accord
  By marcos258 - January 19 - 3:56 pm

  Ive driven a Camry before, but I liked the body style of the Accord better this time around, so I researched and realized that theyre pretty similar under the hood. Ive had this car for almost a year and have not had any type of mechanical problem with it. Its pretty quick and fun to drive and the sound system is really good. The only issue Ive had is with the passenger side window. When Im on the highway, the wind noise is a little louder in this window than any other. I took it to the dealer to get checked out, and they said they replaced the seal. But I can still hear the noise sometimes.

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  Practical and fun - 2007 Honda Civic
  By Eileen - January 18 - 9:23 pm

  I needed a fuel efficient vehicle that would hold up over time. I drive approx. 125 miles per day, mostly on the highway. So far, this is a wise choice. It meets the familys needs and mine especially when I fuel once a week now instead of every other day!

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  No problems! - 2000 Honda Civic
  By justjess - January 18 - 10:00 am

  Imagine getting in a vehicle every day with no problems. NONE. Thats been my experience with my 2000 civic EX coupe. As with most Hondas, if you take care of it, it will take care of you! Sometimes Ill notice someone driving a late 70s model civic on the road (no wonder most Honda dealers have the 100,000 mile club). Im leasing my 2000 civic, and will probably miss it when it goes back next year. Ive considered getting the Jetta next year, but when I hear about the window problems with the jettas and all of the other annoying problems with the vws, it of course gives me second thoughts. If Im smart, Ill get another Honda!

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  No regrets! - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By amcarroll - January 18 - 10:00 am

  At first glance, I loved the 2002. The CR-V is a hoot to drive and compared to my two previous Accords, the power is fine for me. Dont need to tow with it, Ill let my Chevy truck handle that. The CR-V is a daily commuter in all types of weather and a weekend mountain hopper. At 600 miles, no problems to mention(knock on wood) and figured milage out at just at 25 mpg. Very satisfied with my choice.

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  My Review - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By RSB - January 18 - 10:00 am

  Excellent

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  Get smart-get Pilot! - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By sgershfeld - January 18 - 10:00 am

  If you want to get a car for your family, but not a minivan than you definitely should consider oversized SUV with third seat. For me choice of "PILOT" was easy- I trust Honda on reliability and quality (my other Honda has 250.000 miles). Super slick, very detailed interior design. Even though it doesnt look huge from outside, it is very roomy inside! Smooth ride! Just one little thing I did not like: floor mat at driver side doesnt cover all surface- so I had to put an extra floor mat over the top.

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  Wind noise - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By mossy - January 17 - 3:06 pm

  It is fun to drive and the looks are great. It has plenty of power and the mileage seems to be outstanding for a truck.

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  Hybrid Drivers make it last! - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Easy - January 17 - 2:56 am

  I have thought of making bumper stickers for my Civic but I love it some much I dont want to mar its appearance. I guess Ill have too once I get my HOV sticker. I havent gotten my registration yet so it will be awhile. Anyway - on with my review. My wife owns a Prius which I have driven so I can nake first hand comparison. Prius hybrid system is slightly better since it can move the car from a stop without the ICE, perfect for traffic jams or congested freeways.The Prius averages 45 MPG so far.The Civic beats the Prius in all other categories. The Prius interior looks cheap by comparison. If you are after the highest MPG car get the Prius, but if you want a fun to drive car get the Civic