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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  Space Ship - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By challs - June 12 - 11:06 am

  This is the best Minivan I have ever driven. I test drove both the MDX and the Odyssey and I have to say the ODyssey won hands down. I felt like sitting inside the big Van yet it handled like a car.

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  The Fit Fits me! - 2007 Honda Fit
  By Jamin - June 12 - 2:06 am

  I am loving this vehicle!! Ive had it for about 3 weeks, and I have already put 1500 miles on it. I have taken it on many out of town expeditions, and have thouroughly enjoyed it. I have fit a total of 7 people in it so far!! It has plenty of room, you would be surprised how much head room this thing has!! I recommend buying one right away!

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  Civic a solid investment - 2017 Honda Civic
  By Rich Campbell - June 11 - 11:30 pm

  Verify features on trim levels

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  Civic a solid investment - 2017 Honda Civic
  By Rich Campbell - June 11 - 11:30 pm

  Verify features on trim levels

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  Civic a solid investment - 2017 Honda Civic
  By Rich Campbell - June 11 - 11:30 pm

  Verify features on trim levels

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  A very special truck - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By Kevin - June 11 - 9:13 pm

  This is a solid truck! When you get behind the wheel you feel like you are driving a well oiled machine. We have had, a Bronco, Blazer, Cherokee and a Navigator. The Ridgeline blows them all away. Its better and more practical than an SUV. The gas mileage is very good, especially based on the performance of the truck thus far. I drive a cadillac and for the first time I enjoy driving the other car in the family.

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  EXL with DVD 2005 - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By exlpilotwithdvd - June 11 - 9:13 pm

  I got a great deal, base price of $28800 with running boards and tint included. It runs great, and I have no complaints. An awesome purchase. I love the DVD and leather. Fit and finish inside and out is perfect, and the engine is sublime. I test drove every SUV in its class, and the Pilot beats them all hands down. I am thrilled!

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  The best van out there... - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By dcap - June 11 - 6:10 pm

  Who said driving a minivan isnt cool? Finally, a van that drives like a real car!! Kudos to Honda for doing it right. Great feel, comfort, versatility, and in the long run, a great value.

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  Great Accord - 2008 Honda Accord
  By A.MOSS - June 11 - 3:56 pm

  This Accord is a great auto I have owned a new 1994 and 1997 Accord this by far the best design. The ride is very good The interior is awesome.Great features for the money.

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  8 years, and virtually problem-free - 1997 Honda Accord
  By Ann Marie - June 11 - 12:17 pm

  This was the first new car I ever purchased. Nearly 8 years and 130,000 miles later, Ive hardly put any money into it other than regular maintenance and maybe 2-3 repair jobs in the $500 range. My last car, a Ford Topaz, I got rid of after it was 6 years old and had only 85,000 - and that was after the transmission was replaced. I plan on driving this Honda as long as possible, and because its been so good to me Im almost scared to buy a different type of car next time for fear that no other can match its reliability.