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 vehicle - 2011 Honda Pilot
  By RWF - November 15 - 2:00 am

  Recently purchased 2011 Pilot Touring for my wife. She loves the vehicle. Drives great, quiet inside, great technology with the NAV and voice recognition system. Contrary to some of the reviews, the seats are very comfortable and we do not notice any engine shifting when in ECO mode. The RES is fantastic particularly given the fact that the kids can operate it from the back. In fact, they can change the stations on the radio from the rear seats which saves us from having to surf their preferred channels (and when it gets too much, we lock out their controls). We have owned a Range Rover and GMC Yukon in the past and quite frankly, we are enjoying the Pilot more.

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  Love It - 1998 Honda Accord
  By jewels68 - November 14 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car with 36,000 miles on it 9 y/0. It now has 160,000. My car has all the upgrades, sunroof, leather, controls on steering wheel etc. Had to replace transmission 3 y/o for $2500 and just replaced the oil pan. Other than that no problems what so ever. Its fun to drive and love the way it looks. I have had no problems with my paint but it is white. Will keep it to pass on to my son.

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  I will only ever buy Hondas - 1996 Honda Accord
  By Festis - November 14 - 2:00 am

  This car is fantastic. I bought it with 100,000 miles on it and have not had one problem at all. It starts up every time, always purrs like a kitten, accelerates quickly, and is incredibly mechanically sound. Handles great in the snow, and responds quickly to steering. Its accessories are kinda on the sketchy side, but all the doors lock and all the Windows work. All in all, a great little reliable car thats perfect for what I need. Not to mention its awesome gas mileage 14 years later. I will forever own hondas because of this car. The Japanese know whats up.

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  Most reliable car - 1996 Honda Accord
  By forbidmourning - November 14 - 2:00 am

  Ive had this car for about 2 and a half years, it is now at just over 240,000 miles. I have taken it on a 22 hour drive back and forth from MI to TX a couple of times, and it still runs like it is brand new. I have never had any kind of issues with it at all. This is the most reliable car Ive ever owned and I love it! Gas mileage is fantastic too. Would highly recommend this car to anyone!

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  Almost a new CRX! - 2011 Honda CR-Z
  By Anne - November 14 - 2:00 am

  It was way past time to give up my beloved 20- year-old CRX-Si due to lack of modern safety features. Id kept my eye on the the development of the CR-Z and ended up buying a lovely white one, base model, 6-speed. My feelings for the CR-Z are skewed a bit by my love of the old-style steering, shifting, and handling of the CRX. In sport mode, the CR-Z comes close. The seats are not as comfortable for me as the old CRX, and the shifter feels kind of clunky. The blind spot was almost a deal breaker, but Im learning to trust the mirror. I am not totally sold that this needed to be a hybrid - the gas engine shutting down is still unnerving!

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  Honda Odyssey is Outstanding - 2011 Honda Odyssey
  By RC - November 14 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle handles well, and is a fun experience for the entire family. With all of the added features Honda places in the van, there is no doubt that this is a vehicle that will appeal to the consumer that is hesitant to purchase a minivan. This vehicle has a unique design and styling that is intend to be progressive and streamline.

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  Nice Ride - 2010 Honda Accord
  By Matt_Landers - November 14 - 2:00 am

  As the title suggests, the Honda Accord Coupe EX-L V6 is a NICE ride. The 271 HP moves out strong and leaves you with a feeling of confidence when maneuvering on HWY roads. The front fascia has an aggressive presence and while the rear fascia isnt any eye catcher is compliments the car nicely. The leather seating inside is comfortable, however Im sure some will disagree. Handling is firm and sporty.

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  Best Car Ive ever owned - 1997 Honda Accord
  By Brian - November 13 - 2:00 am

  Bought it with 70,000 and currently has 227,000 replaced 1 half axle, 1 battery, upper bushing on front. 34 mpg on highway w/ cruise combined around 28 mpg. At one point at about 110,000 it would just shut off as if I turned the key off but would catch in gear again b/c of it being a 5 speed standard. I called Honda and they told me that it had been recalled for bad ignition switch. Made an appt at the local dealer. Honda replaced everything. igniton switch, points, plugs, cap, wires and even an oil change at NO COST.. Now thats SERVICE! In fact I just bought my wife a 2004 Accord EX.

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  First Honda of Many? - 2010 Honda CR-V
  By sw44057 - November 13 - 2:00 am

  Bought this CR-V a few weeks ago at the urging of my wife. Was surprised by the room inside the cabin. Very open design. Wish it had a V6 available but the four seems to do just fine, youre certainly not going to blow by people on the road.

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  Dont Understand Why all the Drama - 2011 Honda Pilot
  By Mr. Andy - November 13 - 2:00 am

  Purchased vehicle brand new. Drives quietly, smooth and very comfortable. Im 62" and fit very well in the driver & Passenger seat. Havent tested full fuel range but Im sure I can get a good 375 miles from a full tank. Many complaints about comfort, Fuel economy, gadgets. Perhaps if one test drove the vehicle first, they would see these faults and move on to something else. As far as Fuel, I didnt pick an SUV because I wanted Fuel economy, I picked it because it felt strong. If you want better gas mileage DONT BUY AN SUV. Get a Camry or an Accord Duh. No problems with braking I dont tailgate or expect to be still doing 60 mph in heavy traffic. Im lovin my Honda.