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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  Middle/End of the pack? Waitaminute folks! - 2011 Honda Pilot
  By crgeorgia - January 3 - 4:06 pm

  Traded an 08 RDX for an 11 EX-L 12/22/10. Came close to ignoring the Pilot after reading the editors review. We had an 05, so visited the local Honda dealer for a test drive. Bought it immediately after. Here is my take after a 1200 mile round trip from GA to FL (7.5 hrs ea way). Performance, acceleration, handling, and braking are fine. It is relatively quiet, quite comfortable, and a pleasure to drive on a long trip. We got 22.8 mpg with a new engine & cruise set @ 77-83. Center stack does have a lot of buttons but, the layout is quite logical rendering it a non-issue. The vehicle also features outstanding reliability and owner satisfaction over the long term (check Consumer Reports).

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  2011 Honda Accord - 2011 Honda Accord
  By mgrow - January 3 - 1:04 pm

  I recently purchased my 2011 Honda Accord from Maddy Zaalouk at Leith Honda in Raleigh, N.C. My experience was excellent. It was an easy and hassle free purchase. I also considered buying a Camry and an Altima. After comparing all 3 vehicles the Accord won me over for its overall package inlcuding body style, standard accessories, reliability, driving experience and price.

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  I would buy it again!! - 2010 Honda Pilot
  By notijeka - January 1 - 4:58 pm

  Traded in our 08 Accord in Nov. 09 for our 10 Pilot LX. First thing we did was go to ebay & bought (4) Touring wheels (Brand new). Then we bought the running light kit from a Honda dealer in Ohio. I then bought a custom grill kit from CarID in Ca. and two chrome pipe extensions. We also bought the faux chrome strips that go in the door guards. After taking off that goofy looking grill, installing the awesome billet grill (2 pc. upper & lower) installing the running lights and exhaust extensions and door chrome this LX is awesome. The good part.... I saved $4500 by doing it myself. Absolutely love the big roomy SUV.... have driven it to Florida and back and to Ohio and back. # 1 car

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  Great in snow (and all year round) - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By darwinzfolly - December 31 - 12:55 pm

  Tested the CRVs mettle in a recent MN snowstorm (where we got 20 inches of snow). On the way home from work, the car plowed through the snow as if it wasnt there. I was impressed & felt very safe. Its great for shopping,hauling people and pets, and gets decent mileage.

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  Insight is out of sight - 2010 Honda Insight
  By peta - December 29 - 9:57 pm

  I just got my insight and it seems to be a very good car to have. I love the econ assist light display. The car gives me all the power I need get there in. Tonight when I say my prayers I will thank God for letting me have this car.

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  Suburban for Odyssey - 2011 Honda Odyssey
  By hurs - December 22 - 7:01 am

  We traded in our 07 LTZ Suburban for the 11 EX-L Odyssey. COULD NOT BE HAPPIER! We have Triplet 5 year olds that we wanted to keep in their Britax seats so had limited availability. Wow! What a dream this "trucklet" is. I never wanted to be a mini-van owner, but this is heaven on earth! The Odyssey has much smaller exterior then the Suburban, but more interior room! Comfortable, sporty (2011), ease of use, seat capabilities FAR exceed the Suburban. We wanted the Mercedes R Series or the GLK and the Odysseys options/ease of use blew the Mercedes out of the water! If you have multiple children and want a fun and comfortable ride try the ODYSSEY you will NOT be disappointed! Delighted!

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  Faithful Honda Owner - 2011 Honda Accord
  By brendawms - December 21 - 5:10 pm

  My first car was 1995 Honda Civic LP (drove for 11 yrs). I purchased a 2007 Honda Accord SE in Sept 2006. I was forced to purchased a new car because my 07 was totalled on Aug 12, 2010. I decided to wait on the release of the 2011. I ended up purchasing the 2010 Accord SE instead of 2011 Accord LP (more features for the same price). The 2011 Accord SE does have a front shock tower bar, USB interface, and auto on/off headlights. I still havent seem any of the 2011 on the road, but I dont regret my decision.

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  2011 Odyssey EX-L w/ NAV - 2010 Honda Odyssey
  By kmich71 - December 21 - 1:10 am

  Purchased a 2011 Odyssey EX-L w/ NAVI 2 wks ago and really like it. Looked at the Pilot, but needed the 3rd row seating with trunk space and the Odyssey made the most sense and was more practical. Did a ton of research and compared it to the Sienna, but actually like the style, drive and interior more with the Odyssey. Wife was on the fence about driving/owning a mini van, but after 2 weeks she absolutely loves it. Kids have enough space to spread out between the 2 rows and trips to the store or kids sports activities are a breeze with car-pooling and the trunk space. I drive a luxury sedan which this doesnÂ’t compare to, but for a functional family vehicle, you cannot go wrong.

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  Outstanding - 2008 Honda Pilot
  By wvhonda1 - December 19 - 8:31 pm

  This vehicle was thought through very well when designed. Great room for its class size. Gas mileage exceptional. I have heard a lot of negative comments about road noise. I have not experienced this road noise and feel it rides very smooth and quiet. AWD works well for normal winter and typical off road driving. Would not recommend taking it on the Rubicon trail but will hold its own on basic rough terrain. Thumbs up again Honda for a job well done.

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  Nice car to own - 2011 Honda CR-V
  By whkg - December 19 - 1:48 pm

  Before I buy CRV, I read some of negative review about this car. I had similar feeling while I test drive. 1. Not able to pick up to 60 MPH 2. Engine wind noise But after I compare some other cars, I am glad I bought the car. I found it is not bad when you pick up. And most small car has similar wind issue. For the price, value of the and build in features, I think this is a nice car to own.