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:

• 

  Great Car, but Tires are a problem - 2010 Honda Fit
  By jodiepup - March 1 - 8:31 pm

  All, although I love my 2010 Fit Sport, there is a serious issue with tire selection, particularly for those that live in snowy areas. Because of all the snow and ice in Maine this year, I decided that I should remove the Dunlop OEM tires, put on higher quality all-season radials. Other than the Dunlop, which is backordered in many cases, a Honda Fit Sport owner only has two options in the 185 55R 16 size: Bridgestone Turanzo El 470 ($140 a tire) or a Bridgestone Potenza ($100 a tire). Neither tire is rated well in wintry conditions. I inquire about snow tires in this size nobody manufactures them. I asked my dealership if I could put on a different size tire, and they did not recommend it. Neither did they recommend a difference size rim. Please call Honda at (800) 999-1009 to voice your concern about tire selection for the Honda Fit Sport!

• 

  Its a LUXURY Car! - 2011 Honda Odyssey
  By sbinevv - February 27 - 10:33 pm

  Many owners are parents who looked for a minivan and liked the Odysseys features. Our kids are grown, no grandkids yet, and Im a businessman. We wanted a luxury car that would seat up to 8 adult family members or haul bikes or kayaks inside it. We got it all. We relied on owner/reviewers in Edmunds who often mentioned "comfort," "quiet," "room," "ride" and "handling." We bought the Touring Elite, but any model from EX-L up is a luxury car. The truffle interior on ours is dark grey/brown that has a rich look but also will hide dirt and marks. Every detail has been thought out and designed to be practical. The amount of technology is incredible. Chose it over Sienna and Enclave.

• 

  Honda Fit Sport 2008 very reliable - 2008 Honda Fit
  By tommyhonda71 - February 26 - 2:20 pm

  I purchased my 2008 Honda Fit Sport in January 2008. Ive had it 3 yrs now and never had a problem. Rides very quite, handles awesome and is quick. Love the style and runs well on gas. I only have 15,000 miles over the 3 yrs.

• 

  11 years of worry free driving - 2000 Honda CR-V
  By mr_blablabla - February 26 - 10:26 am

  Bought new in 2000. The air condition stop working in 2010 got the freon replaced and i was back in business. That was the only issue ive had in 11 years and its never let me down,not bad eh!. Its all about reliability and this little truck is still running strong with 335,000 kms on it. My daughter wants it so i guess ill go look at something new.

• 

  Better than the rest!!...no really! - 2011 Honda Pilot
  By andonakis - February 25 - 12:19 pm

  We looked at all the competing mid-size SUVs and we narrowed it down to the final 3: Maxda cx-9, Toyota Highlander, and the Honda Pilot. The Pilot was last on her list.(Dont know why) When the dealers gave us the cars to keep over night, the Pilot became the instant favored. The Mazda was a close second and the Highlander...well it didnt even compare. Sorry Toyota. The reason is simple. To us, the Pilot just felt like an SUV. What we mean is it drives like an SUV, it was comfortable like an SUV and it looks like an SUV. We are coming from a BMW X5 so our experience with the Pilot is not exaggerated, it truly is a wonderful car. Thank you Honda!!

• 

  Best car Ive ever owned - 2004 Honda Accord
  By 91_bmw - February 23 - 2:13 pm

  I have owned many cars including 4 Hondas, and this is the most reliable, lowest cost to own of them all. Tons of room for our family of 4 and only routine maintenance so far (oil, brakes, tires, etc.). Could get a little better mpg for a 4 cyl car, but gets over 30 mpg on the highway so cant complain too much. Very comfortable leather interior, good legroom (Im 65" tall), and plenty of trunk space. Car now has 132,000 miles and doesnt leak or burn any oil, and the transmission still feels very strong with no issues so far. Cant imagine being happier with another car. Have always liked Hondas, but this one is by far the best Ive owned.

• 

  Love my Honda - 1991 Honda Civic
  By kycivic - February 22 - 12:52 pm

  I bought my Civic used in 1992 with 29,000 miles on it. It has been the most reliable car I have ever owned. It is now at 270,000 miles and still going strong. Just regular maintenance needed. The only reason I scored lower on the comfort is because my AC went out 2 years ago,and it was going to cost me $650 to get it fixed. My husband has been through 3 trucks to my one car. Love My Civic si. Looking for another one.

• 

  Best Bang For Your Buck! - 2011 Honda Insight
  By mikeyt1818 - February 22 - 7:57 am

  I get better MPGs than EPA estimates (45.2 w/ mixed driving and AC always on). Great steering/handling! Awesome safety features, reliable. ITS NOT A PRIUS! Lol! Nothing against Toyota but way too many Prius drivers out there. I prefer to be distinct!

• 

  Best and most reliable car i ever owned! - 1995 Honda Accord
  By joweewag - February 21 - 11:29 pm

  This is my third Accord, starting with a 1992, then a 1989 that went to over 350,000miles and counting, and now my 1995 with near 350,000miles and running strong. I love the "zippiness" of this car! It handles amazingly and is a comfortable ride. There are a few problems but they are very small except the a/c not being powerful enough to cool the car. I am looking at buying a second 95 due to excellent ratings but this one will be an automatic for my daughter!

• 

  What is there NOT to like? - 2011 Honda Accord
  By ontheroad11 - February 20 - 8:15 pm

  Ive got About 2000 miles on my 2011 accord and I have to say its totally amazing. The ride is ultra smooth, to the point its the first thing people comment on when they get in the car. Im not sure what people are saying about the road noise. I have the V-6, so the 4 could be louder, Im not sure. The interior is ultra classy, not overdone like most of the other cars in this class. The navi is good, but not great. The accord seats are great for me, but not all. I have back issues and the adjustable lower lumbar support is excellent. The 271 hp 3.5 V-6 is one of the top rated engines on the road. The transmission is a 5 speed that gets 0-60 faster than any car in the class. Honda is quality