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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  superb - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By david w - June 15 - 10:00 am

  I absolutely love it. it s dependable,good ride , handles great on corners.interior is roomy for vehicles over all size.

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  How I rate my Honda CR-V - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By Mick Sanchez - June 15 - 10:00 am

  I really like/love my CR/V. I find it very enjoyably to drive. There is very little about the vehicle that I dont like. My CR/V has brought me joy and happiness as a owner. I think that Honda improves on their designs consistantly year after year. I am constantly looking forward to the new years models to see where they improved over the following year(s).

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  I love passing gas stations! - 2004 Honda Civic
  By Granola Girl - June 15 - 10:00 am

  Since I drive 1000+ miles per week for my job, I bought the Hybrid to give my beloved Xterra a break....as well as to improve my gas mileage from 15 to 50 mpg. Though I still love my Nissan, the Hybrid has been everything that I expected and more. In order to keep it at optimum fuel efficiency, Ive noticed that I need to check the tire pressure and adjust regularly.

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  Fast Fun, and never lost - 2004 Honda Accord
  By arcgangel31280 - June 15 - 10:00 am

  I have had the car for a little over 7 months. The car handles real well and accelerates like a demon. I had a 1999 Chrysler 300m before this car, and for the most part am glad I changed. Even though the Accord is 13hp less then the 300m it acccelerates faser and is much more refined. The Navigation system is a must have, but hasnt always steered me the best way. It doesnt always have the up-to-date info, and I have the newest disk.

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  2008 Honda Civic EX - 2008 Honda Civic
  By bellaloo08 - June 15 - 8:36 am

  I test drove so many cars (Camry Hybrid & 4 cyl, Prius, Altima, VW GTI, Highlander, CRV, G35)! My most recent car was a 00 Mercury Cougar, 5 spd V6. I was seeking better MPG and more room since I frequently take road trips and dont pack lightly. I wanted something that held its value and wouldnt constantly be in the shop. So far I am THRILLED! I love my Civic more and more every time I drive it! I get a combined 34-38 MPG! I drove it from FL to NC, NC to FL and back again. I averaged about 40-42 MPG! I am also very comfortable when I am driving! I like the fact its quick and blind spots arent too bad either. They can be so much worse. Road noise can be pronounced at times.

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  Maximize your dollar with Honda! - 1994 Honda Accord
  By Jack - June 14 - 10:59 pm

  This was the first Honda my family owned. My dad needed something to last long miles for his 60 mile one-way commute to work (all highway). He couldnt believe how much he got out of it by just doing oil changes and basic maintenance (rotating tires, fluid levels, etc.). I inherited the car during college (6 hours away) at 150,000 miles. That car went back and forth from Ohio to Illinois, to FL for a spring break, to New England for a summer, and got me through grad school for 2 years in Chicago...and its still going at 269K miles!! Now I have to part with it since I dont need it living in the city. Do the preventive maintenance and Honda will take care of you! Excellent vehicle.

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  Runs Fovever - 2000 Honda Accord
  By Runs Forever - June 14 - 9:11 pm

  See similar reviews for 97 and 2005 Honda Accord LXs - This is our 2nd Honda Accord purchased new, oil changed every 3000 to 4000 miles, has 73000 miles on it and runs the same as when purchased. Only one actual repair to date (power window regulator replaced). Comfortable and reliable car for around town or cruising down the highway. Has great power / acceleration for a 4 cylinder when needed.

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  Excellent small suv - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By Tomas - June 14 - 8:20 pm

  I have had my 2008 Honda Cr-v only a few weeks and so far i am very happy with this car. The ride is smooth and the build quality is excellent. I am getting 28 mpg on the highway and 25mpg overall, I am sure this will improve once the car is driven more. Honda is so focused on small details of the car, both interior and exterior features, and the ride is very quiet and comfortable. The styling of my suv, and it is the base model, is extremely sharp looking and rivals the appearance of much more expensive vehicles. The dealer experience has been great so far, I hope to have this Honda for many years. I would recommend the Honda Cr-v,

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  Runs Forever - 1997 Honda Accord
  By Runs Forever - June 14 - 6:52 pm

  Finally retiring our 97 Accord LX for a new 2005 Accord LX replacement after 209,000 miles. Engine & Drivetrain still going very strong, but rest of car starting to go. This is by far the best and longest lasting car my wife (aka lead foot) has ever owned. Still getting 24 MPG, we have changed the oil every 3000 - 4000 miles on this car and will continue doing the same with the new one.

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  Absolutelywonderful!!! - 2005 Honda S2000
  By HAPPDAZ - June 14 - 2:20 pm

  I love to look at it...drive it and play with it!! The acceleration is terrific, the sports car noise reminiscent and the "package" extraordinary for the dollar. Ive had mine since 2002 and will not get rid of it...