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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  Great car - 2016 Honda Accord
  By Allen S - October 25 - 9:15 am

  Just have it a week so far it performs wonderful.

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  Great car - 2016 Honda Accord
  By Allen S - October 25 - 9:15 am

  Just have it a week so far it performs wonderful.

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  What a relief - 2007 Honda Accord
  By Discriminating Owner - October 25 - 9:03 am

  I researched every car trying to decided what to replace an 04 Pacifica with. For the money, there is no other car with this level of refinement, performance, handling and price. The V6 is absolutely unnecessary, as the 4 cyl engine is smooth and powerful, AND efficient for this nimble, well balanced auto.

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  After Three Months - 2008 Honda Civic
  By rn5 - October 24 - 11:13 pm

  After 3 months of driving, Ive settled in. The car is very fun to drive. Handling and braking: Superb. I am 56" and seating: Fine. Acceleration: very adequate. Stick shift: easy. Road noise: Not absent but certainly tolerable for conversations. Stereo is v.good and controls on the steering wheel are very handy. Plenty of storage in main compartment and trunk. The instrument panel takes very little to get used to. Panel can be adjusted for trip odometer (up to 2 trips), total mileage, outside temperature-nice. City/Hwy Mileage has been 31 steady. Hwy = 37/38. Moonroof is a must-fun! Only problem: Headlights needed adjustment (too low).

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  A must for a Growing Family - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By Eddie - October 24 - 5:23 pm

  After we had our first son we bought a Lexus GX470, Great SUV, but we quickly grew out of it. The Honda mini van was a tough sale to my wife, but after she drove it and realized how much more comfortable it was, she was sold. So now I drive the Lexus, but when it is time to go out with the family I drive the Honda, and it drives great. I like the features, the drive, the value and fuel economy much more than the Nissan Quest or the Toyota.

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  Great Car - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Carfanatic - October 24 - 4:16 pm

  I purchased this car on 8/25/06 after a 2 month wait. I have not been disappointed. Even though I am still in break in and have not gone into I- Vtec, I can tell this car has alot of power. The fit an finish is awesome.

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  Lovin the 2006 Pilot - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By Silvrmedic - October 24 - 12:56 pm

  Getting a true 18mph and expect highway mileage to be right on at at least 24mpg. You learn to drive in the "eco" mode (three cylinders shut off for more economy). On level highway you cant tell the difference. Overall great vehicle. Its as quiet as my wifes Lexus and more comfortable than my trade-in, a 2003 Infiniti G35. Pilot rocks

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  I love my truck - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By D Cox - October 23 - 9:23 pm

  My new truck is a perfect mix of a SUV and a truck. Loads fo room in the back seat and a great trunk in the bed. Im very happy with it.

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  Excellent car to drive - 2007 Honda Fit
  By margarer - October 23 - 7:16 pm

  I love to drive this car. It is so much fun. The pick up is great, gas mileage is great. Just an all around great car to drive. I really love getting in it and going for a ride.

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  Fits Me Fine - 2007 Honda Fit
  By Fittobetied - October 23 - 6:43 pm

  I cant say enough about this vehicle. I have always owned Toyotas and could not resist the Fit. After 34 years of driving and over 6 new cars, this is by far the most fun and practical car I have ever owned. I am still trying to research cars that I think might outdo it in some capacity, but they never live up to it. Especially for the price, cargo, and quality. You will not be disappointed in this car.