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 vehicle!! - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By defan3 - October 23 - 2:51 pm

  I purchased my 03 CR-V back in June of 03 and already have 46,100 miles on it. I really love it and have had no major problems. It is very roomy, interior was carefully thought out. It has so much room, I used it to haul a corner shower kit that wouldnt fit in my S-10! Love the oversized climate controls, perfect when wearing winter gloves. We can drive it from Ohio to Wisconsin (about 430 miles) on one tank of gas! We go about 6 times a year and really enjoy the ride. Definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a reliable, fun-to-drive SUV.

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  Awesome First Car - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Elisa - October 23 - 1:26 am

  This was my very first car purchase and Im so glad I chose the Civic ex coupe. I love the way it turns and the stereo is very nice. My first fillup gave me 33 miles per gallon- I had a lot of in-town driving. The a/c is good as well. Ive only had this car for 4 days and Ive enjoyed every minute in it.

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  Best car Ive ever owned - 2000 Honda Accord
  By Laura - October 22 - 7:46 pm

  I love my 2000 Accord because its so reliable and fun to drive. Although it lowers the fuel economy, I love the speed of the V6 and feel its well worth it. Ive owned it for over 2 years and never had a single problem with it (quite the opposite of past cars Ive owned). The inside is very spacious and great for long road trips. If you take care of these cars, they will take care of you for a long time!

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  A Nice Drive - 2003 Honda Accord
  By DreArf - October 22 - 6:36 pm

  First vehicle I have ever owned and it was new when I bought it. I have had so much fun driving it. Power is quite pleasant, but I do notice a slight hesistation before it kicks in when I accelerate hard. I have fine tuned it some by adding chrome rims, AEM cold air intake valve, AERO turbine performance mufflers, and special paint striping. Im 54 and the visibility is okay, but if youre short you need to just get use to visually compensating when parking and driving in tight spaces. The design a lot of people seem to complain, but of course, if you own one it grows on you. The car has been a surprise to drive and I hope someone can enjoy this model as much as I have.

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  I love my new CRV ! It has everything I want. - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By Ginny - October 22 - 7:22 am

  I wanted a 4 wheel drive vehicle with good (nimble) handling, reasonable gas mileage, good acceleration, up to date electronics and convenience features. I wanted a great backup camera, good airbags, bluetooth /audio that works flawlessly with multiple phones, easy loading and roomy space for groceries and large bulky items, and NO navigation. The phone navigation apps are better than anything built in to cars, and most navigation systems ( built in) are costly and out of date before the car is shipped. My phone has multiple apps, with better AI built in, and I prefer to use it. Bonus feature on CRV is the right blind spot wide angle camera that comes on the big screen when you signal a right turn, or push a handy button. Both side mirrors have these extra features to allow viewing your blind spots and cyclists on the road. the price is really good considering this is my dream car. I traded my Jeep Wrangler as down payment and only pay same loan payment. I got a better extended warranty, and the CRV is MUCH better than my Wrangler.

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  Cant beat it for the money - 2005 Honda S2000
  By Bob - October 21 - 3:33 pm

  For the money you cant get a better sports car. This car is better than a Porche Boxster and almost as good as a Boxster S which cost almost twice as much money!

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  Geat Car - 2004 Honda Element
  By joerogg - October 21 - 10:00 am

  I wish I would of owned a Honda sooner. This is a great car/truck. Great looks, and its a Honda. What more do I need to say? Buy one, its worth the money.

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  Great Car for Travel and Cargo - 2004 Honda Element
  By LBB - October 21 - 10:00 am

  Have my Honda for one year. Happy with it so far. Great for travel and camping. Love the interior, build like a truck, lots of cargo space. Never worry about no place to sleep.

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  Gracie - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By joe carroll - October 21 - 10:00 am

  Extremely roomy - 27mpg highway. Had 8 large pieces of luggage, 4 people and 5 carry ons in the car with all of the doors shut. In my opinion, this SUV is the best in its class. I would highly recommend this car to everyone!!

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  My blue smurf - 2003 Honda Civic
  By Zoe777 - October 21 - 10:00 am

  I love my car the only thing that gets me is that I have had my driver door tumbler replaced and I need it replaced again. It is fun to drive reliable and really cute. I have had alot of fun putting a few custom things on it and everyone knows it is my car when I drive down the street.