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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  great car and fun to drive for an 18 yr - 2006 Honda Accord
  By jordan - May 29 - 2:10 am

  great handling and very comfortable. just as fast as i need it to be. im kind of a nuts driver so the 4 cyl keeps me good.good gas milage. i have the black cloth seats which are nice but get very dirty easily. next time ill go with the leather.

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  Amazing car - 2016 Honda Civic
  By John L. - May 28 - 11:24 pm

  My new Civic Touring is a great car with a lot to love and a few issues. The car handles beautifully, is very comfortable, a great ride and incredible fuel economy for a car that has decent power. The car also looks great. The issues: the audio system while it sounds great, is clunky to work with. The Honda sense features, such as adaptive cruise control and lane watch, are impressive and they do work, but the features need refinement. In particular, the automatic breaking during cruise control can be too abrupt and someone following too close behind is liable to rear end you in some situations. I accept the fact that some of the new technology needs refinement and since its all in the software it would be nice if Honda provided updates as they inevitably make improvements, but they probably wont (unlike Tesla). Its a woderful car so far and I have no reason to believe it wont be as amazingly reliable as my last Civic.

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  SO fun - 2007 Honda Civic
  By Suzanne - May 27 - 10:03 pm

  I owned a 2000 Honda Civic Si a couple of years ago and then decided to go SUV. After seeing the body style of the new 2007 Si, I knew I had to go back. This car is such an improvement from the old Si. Its gorgeous and zippy! I love the handling and the interior display. Honda did a great job at putting bells and whistles in this car for a decent price. It was hard to find one with a navi and I was told I would have to wait a month and I couldnt wait. Luckily I dont get lost too often to need one. This car is worth every cent.

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  Tremendous Second Vehicle - 2004 Honda S2000
  By adguva - May 27 - 7:40 pm

  Bought the 2004 S2K as a second vehicle to add a fun alternate to the fully owned, practical SUV. Tried a few competitors, but the S2K came in ahead of them all. Performance, for the price, lays all the others aside (save possibly for the Nissan 350Z). The S2K has become the vehicle of choice, but for bulk errands and carting the (large) dog around. The car is not for family convenience, but driving pleasure. Even a short commute is enhanced by the fun and, frankly, driveability of the S2K. Clearance (into work garage ramp and driveway) were no problem (slow and at an angle) for city driving, but the fun comes in on the open highway. Watch your speed - it takes you past legal w/o thought.

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  great minivan - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By scott kilgore - May 27 - 4:10 pm

  recent purchase, only 900 miles to date. my 2nd 0dyssey - the 2001 was the best auto i have ever owned. we love the updated features on the 06. This van is quiter than the 01.I look for reliability when purchasing a vehicle. i hope this 06 is as reliable as my previous 01 odyssey.

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  wow.wow.wow. - 2003 Honda Element
  By pitts - May 27 - 10:00 am

  looked at sport tracs and jeep cherokee but with same equip and stuff this was 10000 cheaper. Even without doscount financing the payments are way lower than the 28000 dollar stuff. They will discount them. Suggest you split the markup with them. I got mine from carlos paulino at coggin. He did everything he promised. Car was immaculate when I picked it up sight unseen, Drove one locally but they would not deal. Live it so far. A little more road noise thab I am used to but what an attention getter. Do not look at and drive one unless you plan on buying it, cause you will buy it on the spot if you do.

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  Element of surprise-outstanding - 2003 Honda Element
  By elemantman - May 27 - 10:00 am

  Purchased my EX last Friday. Left dealership for 800 mile 5 day roadtrip to Panama City.Boy was it great drive.Killed tons of bugs(and a quail) with the blunt nose and windshield.Traded 03 Tahoe for the Element.Had grown tired of Tahoes bulk and cost to operate.A bit afraid of being disappointed after being in the huge and handsome Tahoe. Man was I surprised. Awesome room, versatility, utility, ride,comfort, handling and operating cost-and I love its unique look.Reminds me of combination Jeep, older Trooper, Hummer and Mini- cooper.I think its a classic.Have not been disappointed-am thrilled with the Element.

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  Indestructable - 2000 Honda Civic
  By Mike Tupka - May 27 - 10:00 am

  The car is like a rock! It takes bumps well and has a easy to use dash with large climate control dials. The radio has ok resption but the speakers have great sound quality. I would buy another. I coulnd not be happier.

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  Very nice, fun and comfortable - 2003 Honda Civic
  By ahhhonda - May 27 - 10:00 am

  I had a great buying experience with this car, and Edmunds TMV helped out too. I ended up paying Less than TMV. This car has been a blast to drive, even while still breaking in the engine. Ive had nothing but positive comments from friends and family. The only thing Ive noticed about this car so far is how the electric assist steering feels different, but its easy to get used to. I would highly recommend this car to someone who enjoys having a small peppy car. Its no drag racer, but its certainly quite fun to drive.

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  Great Car to own - 2003 Honda Accord
  By atkcamp - May 27 - 10:00 am

  I compared the Honda Accord and Nissan Maximum and I am so glad a chose the Accord. The car helds great and has great fuel economy. I owned a Infiniti I30t and the accord is more comfortable. Great car and would recommend it to everyone.