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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  My Civil Little Civic - 2002 Honda Civic
  By Mos Steph - August 4 - 3:42 pm

  I bought my Civic from a local Honda dealer in 2005, had 36,000 miles on it. I change the oil every 3000 miles. Only had to replace the battery, front brake pads, tires. Only out of the ordinary repairs were the airbag sensor (Honda replaced for free not even under warranty!), a tie rod (wear & tear), and some electrical connection that had to do with one of my headlights. Its not the most flashy, fast car but its zippy, economical, and just right for me. If I had kids or pets to haul around Id probably go for the sedan or an Accord but for now I love the coupe. Im a Honda person for life now after having an Oldsmobile & Chevy. If I had to do it again, Id get a 5 speed if available.

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  Lacking in many ways - 2010 Honda Insight
  By MrGooch - August 4 - 1:24 pm

  Have had the car for over a month. Mileage has been running about 42-44 commuting to work. The navigation system is not worth it, bugs and out of date database. Entered B of A, selected one a 1000 miles a way. The hybrid battery needs to be about twice the capacity, runs out of steam too soon, any grade of more then 1/4 mile, then the engine revs up, which is noisy. Road noise is not as bad as some have commented on. No XM, should be standard with Nav, can be bought as an accessory but expensive. Worst sounding stereo I have had on new car in many years. Interior materials are flimsy and cheap, push my hand against the door and the material caved in and then popped back out.

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  Pilot 2011 - 2011 Honda Pilot
  By Tushar - August 4 - 10:07 am

  It is very spacious. The space utilization and storage spaces are beating everyone in its peers. The exterior is very stylish and impressive.

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  A fun good loking ride - 2010 Honda CR-V
  By Mike - August 3 - 12:03 am

  My choices were CR-V 4wd or Forester awd. Some difference in features, rides about the same, but the styling on the CR-V is more forward looking versus Forester simple lines. Price difference was the hook. CR-V about 1500 less then the Forester locally. Just 125 miles driven and if the repair history is any indication of the quality. Ill have care free driving.

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  Love my CR-V - 2001 Honda CR-V
  By Jan - August 2 - 4:30 pm

  This is the best car Ive every owned. My only complaint is that I like the style of the 2001 and that is not the style they are making now. I live in Alaska and drive in all sorts of weather. I will buy another one when this one wears out.

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  Best Compromise Car - 2008 Honda Civic
  By sts_pa - August 2 - 3:31 pm

  The Civic Si Sedan is probably the best combination of sport and practicality available. It combines a race-worthy 2.0L with the best shifter/clutch Ive ever used. This car feels more upscale than my 2003 RSX-S was and performs at least as well. I get 27-33 mpg depending on city/hwy mix and am almost always speeding. Nice interior layout and materials.

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  2001 Prelude Type SH - 2001 Honda Prelude
  By OEMwheels - August 1 - 9:33 pm

  I remember first seeing this car indoors at a Honda dealer when it first came out in 1997 and my goal was to one day own one(I was around 12 years old). I was in love with it. Prior to that, I really liked the 94-95 Honda Accord 2 door. I owned the accord for around 5 years. I have had the prelude since October 2008. I love the car. Its a bit slow for 200 hp and 22 mpg, but its fair enough. If I were to buy one again, Id go with the base over SH. Base is lighter. This is a unique, classy car not like most of the other cars out there. The main concern Id have with buying one is how well it was taken care of. A lot of these owners have driven em hard. Car maintenance is everything.

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  It just wont quit! - 1994 Honda Prelude
  By Satnel - August 1 - 8:14 pm

  I bought my Prelude new off the lot with 59 miles on the odo at $18K. 16 years later its still going! Only Honda dealers performed maintenance on the car for the first 10 years or so, and I used premium fuel at least once a month. Im a stickler for getting the oil and air filters changed around 5000 miles, but usually sooner since I reached 300,000 miles late last year. :-) The car is still a dream to drive after only one timing belt change and 3 clutches. Its nice to be able breeze down the highway at 80+ MPH and she feels like she did back in 95. Only downside is the rust above my rear wheels. :-) Other than, Ive certainly received my moneys worth 3 times over.

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  Bad Seats - 2010 Honda Accord
  By harv - August 1 - 3:02 pm

  Good car, its a Honda, but the drivers seat is killing my back! Had it about 6 months and looking to trade, i cant take the back pain any longer. 4cyl. is under power when taking off and passing, but good at hwy speed.

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  Great value - 2007 Honda Civic
  By albatem - August 1 - 11:54 am

  Overall a very good car. Roomy inside and dash is cool. Trunk is also very large. Can carry 5 adults, but a bit cramped in back on long trips. Although it is only rated around 140 hp it is peppy and had no problems merging onto the interstate. Consistently gets 33-40 mpg on the highway. Had a couple issues, rear tie bar and front suspension parts went out, but it is a certified car so still under warranty. Only issue I have is placement of hand brake annoys my right knee on long drives.