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:

• 

  ODYSSEY TOURING IS THE BEST! - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By MELATAZ - June 28 - 9:50 pm

  Ive taken all of the test drives of the many vans that are out there today. I highly recommend the Odyssey for its ride, comfort and style. Even though I only have 100 miles on it I know its going to be everything Honda says it is. Ive been a Honda owner for over 20 years and highly recommend it. I will report back when i have more miles Thank you again honda for making a very nice and dependable vehicle.

• 

  98 Honda Odyssey - 1998 Honda Odyssey
  By kerrykelty - June 28 - 7:24 pm

  Great Gas Mileage Unbelievable cargo space because rear seats fold flat and away Compact Size makes for easy driving and parking in the city Unbelievable repair record Body structure and paint are made so well, it still looks like new Four conventional doors make for easy passenger exit from the back (especially for youngsters who often cannot open the larger sliding doors)

• 

  Excellent fuel economy and performance - 2002 Honda Civic
  By Rhino - June 28 - 3:19 pm

  I purchased my Civic new in 2002. Its been driven hard over the last three years....it has not been babied. It hasnt had any problems whatsoever. I get over 30 mpg all around driving, Mid 30s on the highway. My Civic is a 4 dr LX model with a 5 speed transmission. It has excellent performance with the standard transmission...plenty of pep. If you are looking for a strong, reliable, fuel efficent and fun to drive car give the Civic a try!

• 

  Awesome Orange - 2003 Honda Element
  By Charlotte Holt - June 27 - 9:26 pm

  I love it.. when I first saw them I thought they were so ugly they were cute. Now I just think its so cute. It drives nice, rides nice, and cleans up so easy.. We race and get alot of mud and it washes right out. Grandkids are no longer reason for panic.. If they spill it cleans right up..I loved my CRV but carpet and cloth seats were a problem, especially at the track.. Love the theater seating when they stick me in the back.. Thats when I let them drive it..Wouldnt trade it..

• 

  The right choice! - 2017 Honda CR V
  By DJ - June 27 - 7:20 pm

  We love the safety features on the 2017 CR-V. The car is very comfortable. Our first time driving it was on a 6 hour ride and it was a pleasure. The heated seats are great for our cold, mountain climate. So far we are averaging 29 MPG. We are very happy with our choice.

• 

  What a Difference - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Kelly Jones - June 27 - 1:43 pm

  I traded my 01 v-6 sedan in for the 08 v-6 coupe and its a totally different drive. Im impressed with the performance as well as efficiency gains. The ride is a great balance between handling and comfort.

• 

  Buy This Car!! - 1998 Honda Civic
  By Elise - June 27 - 2:08 am

  I sold my Civic for more cargo room but miss it so much! This was a great car! Excellent gas mileage and incredible reliability, especially for a traveling college student. It NEVER gave me ONE problem. And my fuel indicator would be on "full" for days!! I could always count on this car. Very fun to drive. Honda knows what theyre doing! Ill never stray again! BUY THIS CAR! You wont be disappointed!

• 

  Civic Hatch Challenge - 1998 Honda Civic
  By Tou Chang - June 27 - 2:00 am

  Ive had this car for two months and its really fun to drive. I wish it had power steering though. The D16Y7 engine isnt all that strong but could use some VTEC. I also wished it had an RPM gauge. I love the exterior design with its aggressive look. Most of all there are many aftermarket parts to tune-up this little civic to make it one of the best cars to have out there.

• 

  The Pilot does it all! - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Anitajd - June 27 - 2:00 am

  We needed a bigger SUV for our family, because the Jeep Gr. Cherokee didnt have a 3rd row of seats. When the Pilot came out, we jumped at the chance to get one, especially w/ Hondas reliability. It handles AWESOME in 2 feet of snow. You actually CAN go off-roading in this SUV. And we were able to fit 8 in the Pilot this summer (4 adults and 4 baby seats). The Pilot has passed every test my husband has given it. Hes very happy!

• 

  Honda Mini Van Rating EX Leather / Auto - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Bob Buys - June 27 - 2:00 am

  This is a great all around van and and does everything well. I noticed an air noise coming from around the drivers door or window. Brought it back to the dealer who gave me the run around and said it was normal and all seals were in place. Adj. the door lock and changed the oil for free, because they couldnt fix the problem. Poor dealer service and i wont use them again. Nice van and plenty of room, great for travelling and the seats that fold into the floor are terrific. Nice smooth ride and handles well. All controls are laid out nicely and within arms reach.