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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  Accord - 2001 Honda Accord
  By Lenny Mai - August 21 - 2:28 am

  I own a 01 Lx V6 coupe and my cousin has a 2000 TL. believe me the interior is very much alike leather and trim. Accord is the fun car to drive even though it lacked in speed, but after some basic modifications it can be real tough competitor with the 3.0liter SOHC 24valve

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  Best Car Out There! - 1991 Honda Accord
  By Neuman - August 20 - 5:36 pm

  Wow, this car is unbelievable! I have never had a problem with it since the day I bought it to present day. It is extremely reliable, starts up every time hot or cold. It runs very smoothly no sputtering, this car runs the same as it did when I drove it off the lot..I bot it with 184K miles on it, and it now has 245K miles on it and still runs like new, IT WONT DIE..after all its a Honda...Retail value still at $3400 not bad for a 14 year old car! Oh and its very economical, between 450- 460 miles to the tank!

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  Nice Truck! - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By f4oXr4d - August 20 - 12:46 pm

  Nice riding truck. Love the trunk space, with the removable plug so you can spray it out. Honda always thinks of the little things.

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  Do This , Be Happy - 1998 Honda CR-V
  By Billy Clevenger - August 19 - 10:26 pm

  Just a few words to the wise.Change the transmission fluid every 30,0000 miles or so being its cheap because there is no filter. I waited and transmission started acting up after 60,000 miles. Also be sure to check cabin filter. After 7 years it was terrible. It is located behind the glove box. This is a VG vehicle and I recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable used car. Fun to drive and like a cat in snow. Go Honda !

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  Fitting in a Fit - 2017 Honda Fit
  By Carol Theiss - August 19 - 7:24 pm

  It is a great car for a small person like me. I am very comfortable in it and enjoy driving it. It makes me feel young again. We all need a pick me up and the car gives it to me. Dont hesitate to try it out and see if you fit like I did.

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  Best Car Ever Owned - 1997 Honda Civic
  By Honda Fan - August 19 - 6:13 pm

  I just turned my car over the 100,000 mile mark yesterday and it still runs like it has only 10 miles. I purchased this car new and have not had one major problem with it. In fact, this is the best Honda Ive ever owned (after having 3 Accords prior to this purchase). I was only buying this car to keep for a short time, but just cant seem to part with it.

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  Great car - from a former Toyota lover - 2007 Honda Accord
  By Andy - August 19 - 5:40 pm

  I was a 100% Toyota fanatic because my grandparents and parents swore on Toyota vehicles. After driving around a Scion tC for a while, I decided to try a Honda. I am now 100% convinced that the Honda Accord is the best car ever made. It has plenty of power, great fuel economy and it is a joy to drive. I will forever be a Honda owner now!!!!

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  Good Van - 2000 Honda Odyssey
  By VFRBEE - August 19 - 4:46 pm

  The driving dynamics and utility of this van are outstanding. Better cargo, passenger room than a large SUV with fuel economy of a car. We currently have 90K miles on the van with no costly problems. Small irritations have been numerous: Squeeking rear brakes under light braking. Sliding door sticking problems, check engine light on for bad EGR valve under warranty, if tires are cheap and/or cannot be balanced perfectly you will get vibration at freeway speeds. Overall Im happy with our van and expect to keep it for 10 years and 200K. Im a bit concerned with all the transmission failures, but even if I have to replace it once it will still be cheaper than buying new.

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  M3 to Insight Convert, Yes, True. - 2010 Honda Insight
  By Honda Insight Rocks - August 19 - 3:13 pm

  I have LOVED and own BMW M3s, S4s, TTs, for the past ten years. You guys say: So...whah? You gonna try an Insight??? Yeah, I drove it and dug it. This car surprised and delighted me, quick, fun, great cargo.

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  2004 Pilot EX-L with RES - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By klossfam - August 18 - 7:20 pm

  Figured a higher mileage review was due (40K miles at 1.5 years since driving off the lot) Perfect track record and we tow a boat (2700 lbs w/trailer) and snowmobiles (2000 lbs w/trailer) a lot. Average 18-20 in around town driving. Approx 22-24 for a dedicated highway drive. Realistic towing mpg is 15-16. Great overall ride but the spring rates from the MDX (slightly stiffer) would be nice. Power is more than adequate. If cheap Goodyear Integrity OEM tires are rotated every 5K, theyll provide a lot of useful life (still good tread at 40K). In Northern climates, running boards and rear splash guards are a must. MAKE the dealer throw them in (they will). Next SUV will be a Pilot.