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:

• 

  Spoiled by Hondas - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Tom B. - December 23 - 9:33 pm

  I had an 98 Acura 3.0CL on which I put 175,000 miles. Since Acura no longer makes coupes, I went with the Honda because Ive been spoiled. The 3.5 in the Honda is very similar to the 3.0 I had. I loved that engine and it was easy to work on so my choice was easy. So far, I love this engine too although its different with VCM. Honda says the VCM works seamlessly but my experience is a little different. When it goes to 4 cylinders, you cant feel it. When it goes to 3, you can. When it goes back to 6, you cant feel it unless youre pulling a grade. Its not objectionable and the increase in mpg is worth it (22-23 city, 28-30 hwy). Watch out for a blind spot on the passenger side.

• 

  CR-V Beats Accord - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By ptb10 - December 23 - 7:40 pm

  This is a great car. My prior vehicle was an 02 Accord V6. The Accord had power but not much else.This is a really fun car. The SE in pewter pearl is beautiful. Interior is very comfortable. Controls are accessibe and easy to use.Radio & 6CD changer is a real plus. Plenty of room in rear seat for tall adults and plenty of storage. Exterior molding in body color makes the car. For a 4 cylinder car has excellent pick-up and is getting good gas mileage. I was looking to purchase an SUV; the Pilot was too big and so far I am completely satisfied w/ the CR-V.

• 

  Got another winner - 2006 Honda Civic
  By billbert - December 23 - 6:16 pm

  Our 14th honda since 1980. Could possibly be the most fun to drive one. We have 1200 miles since 9-17-5.High mileage 44.6 low mileage 29 mpg. It handles like slot car and performs well even in rain. The 1.8 engine is a great combination of performance/economy. An effortless high speed cruiser. Navigation is great. Im 6.2 325lbs and can sit behind myself. Body appears to be Acura tl tsx style. The new civic sedan looks great. Love the airbags and safety features. My wife loves HER new car. Rides almost as nice as our 2005 Accord sedan with leather does. It handles better. I hope its as great a car as our little 1995 Civic hatchback. It has been very quiet with sunroof open and windows cracked open

• 

  2006 Souped-Up Accord Rocks - 2006 Honda Accord
  By Honda Owner X - December 23 - 2:13 pm

  This car is more than I expected it would be. The transition from gear to gear is exceptionally smooth, and the car seems to float along the road. Its quick too, I was doing over 90 on the interstate without even knowing it (but a state trooper knew it when he clocked me with his radar gun). Jerk. The car has endless features too, from the XM radio, to the Navigation computer, to multitudes of voice- activated commands, and the fact that the computer tells you when you need an oil change, tire rotation, etc. by keeping track of your driving, maintiaing the car is a breeze. Plus, Im averaging over 30 miles per gallon on my way to work (which is not all highway). Sweet ride!

• 

  So far so good - 2009 Honda Pilot
  By Johnny - December 22 - 4:26 am

  Was looking at the Highlander and was totally surprised by the great deal Honda was offering on these. Very comfortable and I love the room and cargo configurations. Cabin is slick. Heating controls are kind of an odd design, but you get used to it. I think the Highlander ride was smoother and more car like, but the Pilot takes bumps well enough. Very versatile. Road trips, tailgating, cargo hauling, towing (included!). Its great for just about anything. MPG is about as advertised, not great. So far so good. Im very happy with my choice.

• 

  I like my Pilot - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By 2004 Pilot EX - December 21 - 7:23 pm

  I was a 20 year BMW owner and find the Pilot to be perfect family vehicle for a group with an active lifestyle. It is an easy drive, uses regular gas, very reliable and good in town and on the road. No reservations about any part of this vehicle.

• 

  Great Car - 2008 Honda Civic
  By Lewis - December 21 - 5:56 pm

  After 20 years of driving small 4- cylinder pickups, this car is a joy. I wanted to finally get something fun to drive and with the stick shift, this is it. Practical, inexpensive, fuel efficient, great styling and outstanding engineering/manufacturing quality. I found that I disagreed with virtually all the complaints I read in the owner reviews. Of course, my last car (er.. truck) wasnt a Beamer either so Im easy.

• 

  Small SUV - 1999 Honda CR-V
  By Great Small SUV - December 20 - 10:45 pm

  We purchased this vehicle 6+ years ago because we intended to own it for a long time. It has proven to be an excellent purchase. 4 cyl engine with automatic transmission has always been a little sluggish but has been very reliable and dependable. Only expenses have been front brake pads, tires and regular maintentance. All of the recommendations for improvements for this model (armrest for passenger seat, etc) have already been made including more horse power. Gas mileage has been about 22-28 MPG overall. We will buy another CRV in a couple of years.

• 

  CW4JSOCFBNCs Accord Crosstour Update - 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour
  By CW4JSOCFBNC - December 20 - 6:23 pm

  I am upgrading my review that I wrote in March 2010. We are more pleased than ever that we purchased this vehicle. We believe that this is the best Honda produced for 2010. Our vehicle is black on black with dark tinted windows and we continue to get compliments on the vehicle everyday. Most people say that they can not believe that this vehicle is made by Honda. My wife has taken over being the primary driver of this vehicle and she is impressed with the performance of the vehicle in the city and on the highway. I am glad we purchased the all wheel drive which has been a great benefit in the heavy rain. I look forward to testing the all wheel drive out in the snow this winter.

• 

  Great Car - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Archslater - December 20 - 4:13 pm

  This is a wonderful little car. It has a much higher quality feel than previous civics and seats four adults very comfortably. Just dont purchase the car expecting to get the EPA mileage estimate... no cars get EPA under normal driving. Real world driving will yield low 40s for this car and around 30 for the standard Civic. With a little effort you can learn to achieve 50 and beyond on a regular basis with this car.