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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  Cross Tour is for me - 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour
  By Philcrow - December 13 - 4:46 pm

  I had a 2005 Honda Accord EXL Coupe for 5 years and traded it in for the new 2010 Accord Crosstour. WHAT a good choice. I have only had the car 3 weeks but am "in love" already. I love how it rides and looks and the room is unbelievable compared to the coupe. The easily let down back seats is a real plus when loading large items from the store. I feel so classy in this car which is how one should feel when driving. I would recommend this car to anyone wanting a nice ride and sporty looking car. I plan on driving this baby a long long time....

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  SurvivorOfTheCivic - 2002 Honda Civic
  By ISurvivedTheCivic - December 13 - 12:43 am

  My Civic had been pretty good form the most part. This is the 2nd Civic Ive owned after totalling my first in a rear-end collision. I still feel like I got a little less car for a little more money. I enjoy all the amenities that come standard on the EX model. The A/C is a freezer, heater is a sweat box, and it very manuverable. The 2 door model does not comfortably seat 4 at all. I am a college student and sometimes space is a need. The gas mileage is great. I feel like the quality of my first Civic, which was a 97, was must better than that of my current 02 model.

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  Perfect for what it is designed to do - 2005 Honda Element
  By Larry - December 12 - 11:52 pm

  The vehicle is just about perfectly suited for our needs (2 adults, 2 teenagers, one large dog) both long and short drives. It cruises easily at 80/90. The vehicle corners well and is surprisingly quick. Some other reviewers wanted a larger engine – none is needed if you get the manual transmission and rev the engine a little while shifting – Honda has low rev shift points the auto transmission. The EX comes with a better suspension than the model below it. I have had several vans, various sedans, and several sports cars, so I have a reasonable idea of different vehicles – no one wants to use our much more expensive conversion van anymore, other than for camping trips.

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  good ole reliable - 1997 Honda Civic
  By Eric - December 12 - 6:22 pm

  What can I say about the civic. Light, nimble, with a quick feel. The only expenses other than fluids, filters, batteries, and tires was the timing belt at 90,000. The car runs effortlessly and still gets 37mpg combined. Honda did a great job making a very economical car sporty and fun. The only problem with mine is a slow passenger side window motor. Now the 2006 civic looks to do it all over again. Get in line to get the Si.

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  Practical and fun to drive - 2009 Honda Fit
  By DesmondVT - December 12 - 5:50 pm

  The Honda Fit offers the utility of a mini-van, the efficiency of a subcompact, and the go-cart handling of a Mini Cooper, all in a single package. Make no mistake, compromises abound in the Fit--from its tendency to sway in a crosswind to the buzzing engine to the terrible seat fabric. But the Fit does something few cars can manage--it is both eminently practical and absolutely fun to drive. The 5-speed manual shifts smoothly and the little 1.5L engine is both willing and responsive. Handling is nimble, and the tight suspension gives you the sense that you are carving turns on the asphalt. A fantastic value.

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  Its GGGRRREEAATTT!!!!! - 1995 Honda Accord
  By Teddys mommy - December 12 - 10:00 am

  I love my baby. This is my first car and its 7 years old. Ive driven from home to Pittsburgh at least 10 times and I have yet to be dissatified by the ride, comfort level, or dependendability. My commute to work is 100 miles a day; I couldnt ask for a better car.

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  groove - 1999 Honda Civic
  By groove - December 12 - 10:00 am

  this honda civic is a great car and is great on gas mileage. I love driving this car. The V-Tec on this car is also very helpful for street racing

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  Great!!! - 2002 Honda Accord
  By Roger2522 - December 12 - 10:00 am

  Great!!! This car is amazing! I love how it rides, the interior is amazing! Everything about this car is supberb! Keep up the good work Honda!

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  Love my CR-V - 2010 Honda CR-V
  By MamaG - December 12 - 6:36 am

  Have had my CRV for almost 3 months now. Bought a 2010 sight-unseen after my 16 year old acura was stolen from the driveway. I have a 4 year old, and knew Id be giving up my youth when I finally upgraded to the much needed SUV. But, after driving every other crossover and small SUV available, was pleasantly surprised when I finally tried the 2009 CRV. With the extra horse-power even being added for the 2010, decided to purchase it before it was on the lot. It is quick and handles great. I can fit everything I need and not feel like Im navigating a small barge through the city.

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  i love it - 2006 Honda Civic
  By civicgirl220 - December 12 - 3:06 am

  i never had a car run so good like this one and i love to race it cuz the power is great and everybody gives me good feedback on the car