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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  Got my moneys worth - 1997 Honda Civic
  By cant believe - April 24 - 12:45 pm

  I bought this car in 97 with a mere 7 miles on it. It now has 135+K miles and has overall been a great car. Its never had any major problems except that its almost been stolen twice. I am having the problem that (2nd time around) my drivers side window in not working and the passenger side is slow. And there is something rattling whenever I turn. It has taken me everywhere & has been extremely reliable even when I wasnt so nice to it on the road. My older brother wants this car to tool around in & my soon to be 16 y/o wants it, so theyll have to duel it out when its time to retire it for a 4 door which is going to be soon.

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  01 S2K w/ Vortech S/C - 2001 Honda S2000
  By Estreka - April 24 - 12:40 pm

  My S is a little different than most. Having 320 hp really extends the enjoyment of the S. While theres still a lack of low end torque, there are few cars out there that can compete with the fun of an S2000 over 4,000 RPM. It cant be compared to other sports cars. It must be viewed in terms of a livable go kart. Its that responsive. The shifter is a particular joy. Few manuals can be maneuvered with the flick of your wrist like the S can.

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  Better than I expected. - 2017 Honda CR-V
  By Love Hondas - April 24 - 7:02 am

  Car rides more like an upscale SUV. 2017 updates are excellent. I compared the CR-V to Mazda CX-5 and went with the CR-V for extra cabin space ESP trunk area. This car is so much fun to drive. I love the technology and Apple CarPlay.

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  Right Choice - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By S Schumacher - April 24 - 7:00 am

  I bought this car needing something with AWD and good fuel economy. Ive moved to the country and the roads are, shall we say, challenging. This car has been a gem. Its beautiful and flawless on the roads I navigate through. Weve had a tough winter with much rain which turns to mud on dirt roads. One morning going to work in the dark and much rain I turned on the dirt road only to discover it was flooded. I kept going through a torrent of water (yes I know youre not supposed to!) and this car never faltered for a moment. It was like it knew what to do and where the road was. Im getting about 25 mpg and feel very safe both on paved and unpaved roads. This car is sturdy and nimble

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  Honda Ridgeline - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By rbuccino - April 24 - 5:10 am

  I was not thrilled about the fact that I needed a truck. Trucks are bulky underpowered gas-guzzlers - arent they? Not the Ridgeline! This "truck" handles more like a sportscar than a truck. The ride is extremely comfortable. The in-bed trunk is a must have! The rear seat is very comfortable and folds-up for additional storage. The AWD rocks! Great job Honda!

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  Great car for under $20k - 2016 Honda Civic
  By Victor Kostenko - April 24 - 3:49 am

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  2003 Honda Element EX AWD 2W (2.4L - 2003 Honda Element
  By Cris - April 24 - 2:58 am

  I was the 1st person to have this kind of car in Texas, people looked me at as if I was from outer space or some kinda stupid to have a bread toaster looking car. But I dont mind that negative image because I was more concerned about the space and style versatility of the car. After driving this for 5 years now, I realized that I hate this car at all. I drove Nissan, Toyota, Porsche, Dodge, Chevy, Mazda and I realized the difference. There are far more better cars out there than Honda. I give credit to the reliability of this company but because of this prestige they had, they were too overconfident about their market and they made less effort of better design and worth your money to buy their car.

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  Love it - 2017 Honda CR V
  By Vannessa Carbajal - April 24 - 12:40 am

  Best bang for your buck

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  Do your homework think twice - 2009 Honda Civic
  By Terry G Watson - April 23 - 11:36 pm

  I have 2009 that has been in the shop three times under 6000 miles,once for a failure of the tire pressure sensor, twice for IMA battery failures. The car is currently experiencing the same type of behavior as before the last IMA failures. Honda states they are having battery problems. In addition, Honda customer service states the MPG is actually normal for winter driving for Missouri. Dealer failed to inform us of this when we purchased vehicle. I find this to be an unethical deceptive practice by Honda. Car is not the quality we expected from Honda.

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  hondas best - 1996 Honda Prelude
  By preludedude96 - April 23 - 8:39 pm

  I bought my 96 si 1 year ago with 127k miles on it the only thing I have had to fix on it is the clutch and a rear wheel bearing this car is by far the most reliable car Ive ever had. If you are looking at this trying to decide if you should buy one stop thinking and go get it.