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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  Its a blast! - 2010 Honda Fit
  By Anonymous - December 8 - 2:00 am

  Ive owned the Fit for over three months and 3200 miles. Averaged 38.8 mpg by the computer and my records. It is as much fun as a 60s MG or Triumph. Previous car was a BMW X-3 and this is more fun and Ive discovered I dont need the automatic air, fancy stuff and most of all, high cost. I love the car because it is fun and frugal and since mine is 5- speed and Milano Red, everyone breaks their neck looking at it.

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  Best value for a vehicle - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Anonymous - December 8 - 2:00 am

  First car owned where I didnt use the bumper to bumper warranty, and after 6.5 years, and 139K miles, never a broken item, or single adjustment. Replaced tires, brakes, rotors once, air filters, oil change every 3K, and transmission drain and fill every 15K. Still love the way it drives, hoping to get 300K.

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  Still love it after 5 yrs - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By Anonymous - December 7 - 2:00 am

  This truck served my need for a combination of SUV and truck. Nicely appointed and extremely comfortable, Ive had it for 5 years and still love it.

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  Not a cold weather vehicle - 2010 Honda Insight
  By Anonymous - December 7 - 2:00 am

  I really like my new Honda Insight. It is really fun to drive & I love the way I feel in the drivers seat. The only issue I have with this vehicle is that I cant get anywhere close to the advertised gas mileage when it is cold outside. The cold engine light comes on & I get about 20 mpg. Cant wait until SPRING!

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  Good mpg and very reliable - 2007 Honda Civic
  By Anonymous - December 7 - 2:00 am

  Bought the car new in 2007. Never gave us a single problem in the past 3 years. Averaged MPG at 43. In pure highway, can get to 50+. Battery is reprogrammed a few months ago. It feels ok with reduced capacity and power. Some mentioned battery problems in hot places though.

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  Still runs like new - 2000 Honda Accord
  By bobh - December 5 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car new, and still drive it ~80 miles RT each day to work. Just turned 254,000 miles. Original trans, exhaust, motor, etc. Had to replace wiper linkage and catalytic converter last summer. Otherwise, no significant issues.

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  Why all the negative comments? - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By happyhondaowner - December 4 - 2:00 am

  The 2003 Odyssey EX-L we purchased new about 8 years ago has been a very good, reliable and enjoyable car. I read on the post about all transmission and door problems, etc. but we have not experienced those problems. We drive about 12k miles/year. Im not saying were lucky... I think we take care of our car with maintenance, with not driving it hard, etc. This was our first Honda and we dont have anything bad to say about it. Its plenty spacious for the family and all the trips and things we take with us. My 2 cents. its a great car , but if you get a lemon, youll have a sour taste in your mouth - (we must have got the cherry)!

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  Transmission - 2002 Honda Accord
  By Red King - December 4 - 2:00 am

  Made it to 126K, the transmission started slipping and a few months later thats all she wrote. The lights began to flash (engine, maint, and the D). Brought it to an honest transmission repair shop and he told me it was JUNK. $2000. to $2500. to rebuild it, 6 weeks before replaced timing belt, balance belt, water pump, sway bar bushing, plugs, transmission seal between engine $$$. Was a 3 Honda family not again. Thanks Honda

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  Best car Ive ever owned! - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Dr. Blob - December 4 - 2:00 am

  Purchased the car used in 1/05 w. 16,500 miles. Car now has 108,000+. Rides and runs like it was brand new! Nothing but regular maintenance (5000 miles oil changes, trans and radiator every other year, 100,000 mile total makeover etc). I am still using the original rear brakes (the last year for the old drum style -very durable). 5 speed manual is still smooth - original clutch - no slippage or chattering. Approximately 30 mpg - mixed driving - regular gas. Everything still works - very comfortable - handles like its on rails. Cant rave about it enough! Love it!

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  Best Honda yet - 2010 Honda Accord
  By fnc119 - December 4 - 2:00 am

  I have had this car for 6 months and taken on several long trips. The performance is outstanding, the car is comfortable and the MPG is as advertised. Have performed the routine maintenance and expect to keep the car for years. My son-in-law liked mine so much he bought one too and feels the same as I do.