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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  Surprise in a little package! - 2005 Honda S2000
  By 2000 Honda S2000 - June 3 - 1:46 pm

  I traded a corvette for this Honda S2000 when it first came on the market. I have never regretted one minute of being the owner of one. It corners like a dream, drives with the power of any sport car I have ever had and I dont have to worry about the market being saturated with them. I feel unique. My dream car.

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  Cool. - 2002 Honda S2000
  By Jun - June 2 - 6:46 am

  Cool.

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  great car - 2002 Honda Civic
  By ScottieEx - June 1 - 12:26 pm

  the honda civic is a great car if you take it for its true purpose: to be an well built and capable economy car. its not a race car, but its a car that will get you to your destination for years without problems and save you countless dollars on fuel. of course the car itself looks great and there is a good aftermarket for any modifications. any questions ponder at the forums of www.7thgencivic.com

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  I drive with a smile - 2017 Honda Ridgeline
  By Aubrey - June 1 - 8:49 am

  You have read it other reviews, but the full throttle power is pretty awesome. I have the front wheel drive model and have to back off of the pedal due to spinning the tires too much. The braking is very good. The ride is so much more quieter than the older model. The suspension handles potholes and big bumps without worry, as in the beginning I would wince and brace that I surely would have a jarring experience. The sound system is very good. I had not heard HD radio before and now I wont use XM radio. Old songs sound great again on HD radio. I do have some comments and complaints. The -T in RTL-T stands for technology and lots of computer processing. After starting engine, the navigation takes a while to boot up and I have learned not to touch it until I think its available and then wait 5 more seconds before I use it. You cant jump in and start your truck, plug in an address in the navigation and take off. Also after starting, the steering wheel volume buttons dont react at all sometimes and your natural instinct will be to keep pushing the volume buttons. Eventually, the volume will react to all of the pushing on the volume buttons and will give an extremely loud or quiet volume. These are minor and you learn to adapt. My complaint is that my truck comes with receiver to tow trailers or boat, but is pre-wired for the trailer lights. When I asked for the wiring kit, it was $266 at thdealer. Really Honda? Update: I bought the trailer wiring kit for $200 and installed it. If you plan to install yourself, download the instructions to see if you want to take it on. It wasnt an easy task. You have to remove the rear seats, remove covers, and remove the trim by the side air bag to access the brake controls. A special rivet nut tool is needed to mount the 7 pin socket/harness.

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  First Time Honda Owner - 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour
  By Elvin - June 1 - 8:20 am

  I am really enjoying this extremely road competent and comfortable luxury sedan/hatchback. This car cannot be photographed well, but you must see in person to appreciate the beautiful lines inside and out. It turns heads on the road and I get questions in parking lots. The styling is like no other car our there. I think it is a solid bargain for the money. I live in Colorado and have no issues climbing steep grades (plenty of smooth/quiet power)or snow handling. I love the hatch back, cargo area and hidden compartments! I look for excuses to go driving!!!

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  Great car - 2008 Honda Civic
  By Bob - June 1 - 6:23 am

  Had the car two weeks and love it!! Fun to drive, peppy, great package for the price, outstanding fuel mileage, avg 30 mpg and the leather interior brings the car up to a new level of luxury.

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  Nice Car! - 2009 Honda Accord
  By Dawn - June 1 - 3:16 am

  Ive been driving my Honda for about a month. Ive driven it on the interstate, on country roads and in town and am very pleased with the performance, comfort and fuel efficiency. I was worried about comfort when I read the reviews but I think the seats are fine. I am looking forward to trying out these heated seats. I think the stereo system is great. Im hooked on satellite radio now though so thats going to be an added expense for me. When I was looking for a new car, it came down to this or the Chevy Malibu. The reliability of Honda won me over. Well see if Im still driving this at 100,000+ miles - I hope so.

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  Great Car - 2003 Honda Element
  By Mattzky - June 1 - 2:00 am

  This is a tremendous vehicle. I couldnt believe how roomy it is inside. I also own a Toyota Sequoia and the Element feels roomier inside! I love how functional it is for my kids. I dont care what they spill or what mess they make. Its great for camping and the four wheel drive system is excellent for the snowy winters. This is the most functional vehicles on the market. Everybody stops me and wants to know what it is and wants to look inside. This is a very cool vehicle.

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  Youll Love It!!! - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Ann V. - June 1 - 2:00 am

  I never thought how much Id love this SUV. This is the 1st SUV Ive ever owned and I think its spoiled me for all others in its class. I originally was considering the Lexus RX300 and the Toyota Highlander. But I think overall the Pilot offers the best value and performance. This is a definite must see before making your buying decision.

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  What a Car! - 2003 Honda Civic
  By MichaelP - June 1 - 2:00 am

  We thought a "green" car would be like driving a golf cart. Honda has really impressed us. The car has plenty of pep, is quiet and handles well. Good sound system with CD player standard. Plenty of trunk space, and no, you dont have to plug it in. Were averaging 45 mpg! We regret that Honda did not have a better selection of colors (only white, blue and silver) because if they had better alternatives, we would have bought two cars!