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 for DINKS - 2005 Honda Element
  By foredaughs - January 11 - 9:36 pm

  This car, albeit a design for the under 28 crowd, is also perfect for 40+ year old DINKS (dbl income, no kids.) It is one of the most comfortable cars you can drive; we drive it long distance, 1100 miles non stop on a bimonthly basis. With the 3 dogs in the back! They are Eskies. And there is still enough room for the non-driver to catch some easy zzzzs. Vehicle is fun and ultimately practical. We plan to buy another when we hit 160,000 miles.

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  One thing missing - 2007 Honda Accord
  By A. Harper - January 11 - 7:50 pm

  Car is excellent in nearly all respects, but the gear box should be illuminated for easier, safer use. The gear youre driving in should be clear when you move the shift lever. You shouldnt have to consult the dashboard to see if youre in drive or reverse, especially at night.

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  Great Car!! Ignore Consumer Reports - 2003 Honda Insight
  By J Baxter - January 11 - 5:57 pm

  Bought this car in 2003 so I could retire my 1987 BMW convertible to preserve it. Interior layout and "look,touch,feel" very similar to BMW, so I was at home right away. Acceleration is zippy, but not faster than the rest of the pack. Handling is really good and suspension is very taut (like performance-oriented European cars). Lifetime average fuel economy has been about 56 mpg and 60+ on the highway is the norm. Tires are the biggest problem with stock setup-the OEM Bridgestone Potenzas stink. Am now using 1+ size Kuhmo Solus so handling is vastly improved esp. under wet/snowy road conditions. Totally reliable car, and outstanding dealer support (way better than Audi/BMW dealers).

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  Buy the 4 cylinder / Manual!!!!! - 1999 Honda Accord
  By Dan S. in MI - January 11 - 2:28 pm

  I purchased this car in 01 (its now 06) and I am very happy with the value. I have experienced no powertrain issues, as are common with automatic transmission models. I average 32 MPG on highway. 4-cylinder has plenty of spunk. The ride leaves a bit to be desired. Engine noise noticeable - air noise noticeable - not as smooth as my 16 YEAR OLD Lexus LS 400. Very easy for my local $40/hr mechanic to work on - or if Im feeling brave I have tackled a few issues. Plenty of room in engine compartment to manuver. BUY THE 4 CYL!!!

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  2009 CR-V Good buy - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By chivazo - January 11 - 3:30 am

  I sold my 2005 Murano, I thought I downgraded to a CR-V but I was wrong. Better handling, excellent interior design, fun to drive. Handles extremely well on snow and heavy rain.

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  Comfortable ride - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By NYer - January 11 - 2:00 am

  The truck rides smoothly and feels very solid as I put more than 1000 mile on it. The interior design is flawless as I found everything is quite handy. But recently, I feel there is noise from right front wheel as it goes over a bump. The dealer should not be only concerned about selling cars, but also how the consumers feel

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  Better than a Suburban! - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By KCB - January 11 - 2:00 am

  I have 4 girls aged 11-4 years. I was nervous about downsizing from a Suburban, but figured we always pack light anyway. This car is great. It is unbelievably quick, both in starting from 0 mph to 65 and in how quickly it stops when you break. Even my husband admitted it was SO much nicer to drive than the old truck. Additionally, it has a huge amount of space -- the cargo space in the back is very deep.

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  Si Grows Up ! - 2003 Honda Civic
  By Si_Guy - January 11 - 2:00 am

  No longer a high-strung peaky hot rod, this new Si is aimed at a new market. This is the most European Honda ever sold here. Designed in Germany, built in England, this car is all a GTI should be, but isnt. The flat torque band pushes drivability far beyond any prior Si. The new 2L is perhaps the smoothest 4-pot made today and the 5 speed is the best of any FWD Honda. Other hatches may be hotter, but none can beat the refinement, smoothness, reliability and precision of the Si. If engineering excellence matters more to you than loud exhausts, slamming your ride or drag racing, this is the Si youve waited for.

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  Great car! - 2002 Honda Accord
  By Alper - January 11 - 2:00 am

  Excellent choice. Would consider only Infiniti G35 as an alternative.

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  Ridgeline - 2017 Honda Ridgeline
  By Gary - January 10 - 10:11 am

  Good so far, hope it holds up to other hondas in reliability