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 planning - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By Mike - November 23 - 11:20 pm

  Just gave my wife my 05 pilot and bought the Ridgeline. This is also first truck I have owned. After seeing and driving it, I was taken by car like ride and Honda quality. Creative engineering, such as amazing room, teriffic options, trunk in truck bed, and outstanding sound system. This is my fourth Honda and I will keep buying as long as they continue to get it right!

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  Great car, sad its getting old... - 1997 Honda Accord
  By Esseppi - November 23 - 7:37 pm

  I boght this car knowing very little about the reputation of the Accord. Loved it from the first second of driving. Extremely reliable, only had to replace radiator once and battery another time. Extremely fuel efficient.

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  Proud Owner of a 2005 Honda Odyssey - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By pebbles93065 - November 23 - 5:10 pm

  Recently my husband and I felt that it was time to trade-in our 2002 Honda Odyssey for something newer. We looked at several other minivans but none could compare to our Odyssey. I love my Odyssey inside out! Other vehicles might come close but once you have driven the Odyssey there is just no way to settle for anything else. We are a family of 5 and do quite a bit of traveling, we fit very comfortably and with plenty of room for luggage. Sometimes we even take our parakeets and dog with us and there is still room remaining. The Odyssey is extremely quiet and has a very smooth drive. I highly recommend the Honda Odyssey for anyone that is looking for quality, style,reliability and comfort.

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  08 Brakes - 2008 Honda Accord
  By jkondra - November 23 - 1:20 pm

  Great car so far. With the exception of the rear brakes going out at 20k.. something should be done.. My Yukon XL has 90,000 miles on it with the original brakes on the rear... 20k and need new brakes????? come on Honda... u are losing your touch

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  Passport - 1995 Honda Passport
  By ben_k240 - November 23 - 11:40 am

  Ive had my Passport for over 4 years and it has always been as good to me as I have been to it. I bought it with 86K on it and have only had to make repairs typical of its age. No major engine or transmission problems yet at over 120K. Compared to other SUVs of its age and class level, Id say it is average to good. Things to watch for are alternators (tend to start chirping or squealing), power steering pumps (can start to hum loudly), and be mindful of CV joints because if they wear out from maintenance neglect theyre expensive to fix on this vehicle. Overall I would describe this vehicle as rugged, reliable, and durable. The mileage to power ratio is terrible though.

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  My 2005 CR-V EX AWD - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By Jim - November 23 - 4:26 am

  After test-driving the Tucson, Rav4 and Escape, the CR-Vs interior has better quality, the exterior fit and finish is also superior. Cargo area would be improved if the rear seats folded into the floor; this is a major flaw with the CR-V. Another major flaw is the rear swing door, it should be replaced with an overhead lift door. The CR-V is fun to drive but needs better tires than the OEM BridgestoneÂ’s. They are noisy and hard riding. Honda still needs to put more thought into some of the interior details. Indicator lights need to be added on the driverÂ’s side window controls along with lights for some of the storage bins. Overall, the CR-V is a nice compact

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  Incredible - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By veleven - November 23 - 1:56 am

  This van replaced a 96 Grand Caravan. No comparison! Excellent build quality and features. Designed for Mom and drivers both (may be one and the same). Nav system is fantastic...once you learn the many options. Back seats are the best bar none for ease of folding and comfort.

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  First 90 Day Impression - 2005 Honda Element
  By Skip2r - November 23 - 1:16 am

  Bought it to haul my Great Dane and Lab mix dog. Works great, however the Dane likes to look out the front window and obscures my view to the right. Things I love: The massive amount of room. Quick clean up and multifuctional back section, rear seats are completely out in less than a minute or they can just be folded up and out of the way. After a week of hauling dogs, cleaning took 3 hrs in our 2004 Honda CR-V, the Element less than 15 minutes.

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  I LOVE MY HONDA - 2008 Honda Accord
  By faithann straub - November 22 - 10:45 pm

  I absolutely love my Honda. Its so roomy and just looks great on the outside. Its extremely reliable. Great car overall. You wont regret getting this car!

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  Gas Saver - 2008 Honda Civic
  By Mr Camry - November 22 - 5:56 pm

  Ive had my LX automatic for 1,000 miles. First tank of gas, I averaged 32 MPG. Second tank averaged 35 MPG! I am impressed by the fuel efficiency.