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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  I love this car - 2006 Honda Civic
  By V Squared Over R - December 5 - 8:26 am

  This is the most competent car I have ever owned. It gets me to and from work without complaint, will drop an M3 like a bad habit on a twisty road, averages 27 mpg, screams like a porn star and looks great doing it. You simply cannot upset this little rockets composure when the turns come close and fast. Just dont smoke the brakes.

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  Fun to Drive - 2005 Honda Element
  By Jim - December 5 - 12:05 am

  Fun car - well thought-out. Great for outdoor activities. Interior made for bicycling, fishing, camping, etc. Far above average stereo. Very stable, brakes superbly. A life-style choice.

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  A Mean Little Hybrid - 2010 Honda Insight
  By Misty - December 4 - 1:30 pm

  I absolutely love my Insight. I love the way it handles like a Honda versus other hybrids. The dash panel makes viewing and learning how to properly drive a hybrid a breeze. I highly recommend this vehicle for handling, gas mileage, and a stylish look for the exterior. It is the meanest looking hybrid on the market (if a safer for the environment car can be mean).

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  My Honda CRV-EX - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By Davette Robinson - December 4 - 12:20 pm

  This is a fun car to drive. Huggins Honda gave me a fair price and were not high pressure, and did not treat me in a sexist manner.

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  Great Choice for Family & Fun - 2008 Honda Accord
  By eyc51k - December 4 - 6:40 am

  Love the car all around. Comfort is great for my six foot 215 lbs. Stereo rocks. Handles great with solid quick response. Mileage is great considering the size and the power more than enough. Excellent visibility. I drive a 140 miles daily and this car make it a pleasure. My only negative-- I donÂ’t really like the electronic mirror because I have sensitive eyes. I was told by Honda service it canÂ’t be replaced because of wiring harness. I opted for fog lights which are costly, my only extra along with mud flaps.

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  superior in its class - 1995 Honda Civic
  By HondaConvertee - December 4 - 6:30 am

  I had thought used Hondas were overpriced. Then I got lucky and found a 95 EX coupe/automatic that was a bargain. Now I gladly pay the premium to buy Honda. Civics are well designed, well built. The EX is sporty, economical, reliable. If I were to give this car a report card, it would get all As, with the one glaring weakness being very poor traction in the snow (special compound snow tires addressed that issue). In sum, the only way you can go wrong buying a used Civic is to overpay for it.

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  Great Car!! - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By thrilled owner - December 4 - 4:58 am

  Ive had my Pilot for almost 6 months now and I love it!! The storage is great...drink holders for everyone too! The seat warmers are great. Has great "get up and go" and very easy to handle when driving. Smooth and quiet. I absolutely love my car and am so glad I have it!!

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  Excellent! - 2010 Honda CR-V
  By Carl Farg - December 4 - 4:53 am

  As our boys are getting older, we decided it was time to downsize from a Toyota Sienna to a compact SUV. We considered all makes but we kept returning to the CR-V and we could not be happier. The features are spot on and all the controls are well thought out. It has plenty of power even when hauling around 4 adults and their gear. There is a bit of wind/road noise, but it was a lot less then competitive vehicles like the RAV4. We were a bit concerned that it would be under powered, especially compared to the V-6 in our Sienna, but it is just fine.

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  Great car...Good price - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By Steve - December 3 - 10:28 pm

  In need of a good dependable car, I researched the Toyota and Saturn.The Honda was, in my opinion the best. The ride is comfortable and reasonably quiet. The gas mileage could be better but not terrible. Overall, A quality vehicle.

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  Atlanta Driving - 2004 Honda Element
  By Benjiz - December 3 - 8:49 pm

  This is the most utilitiarian vehicle I have owned. Much more interior space than my other Jeep Cherokee. I have moved everything from big TVs to a pullout sleeper sofa in it. It has adequate power and mileage. I do mostly highway driving. Avg HWY MPG 25. Love the vehicle, could use minor improvements then PERFECT..