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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  This is a fantastic car - 2005 Honda Accord
  By William - January 30 - 9:45 pm

  I love this car. Ive had it for 7 years and its my 3rd Accord. Its the newest car Ive ever owned so that does affect my perspective. However, this car is still so nice. Its amazing to me that at 11 years old, it still feels brand new. It drives amazing, has had great fuel economy, and looks great. I still get between 19-21mpg in town and 31 on the highway. I never guessed an 11 year old car could still get 30 miles to the gallon. The paint job has held up well compared to my previous accords. The only thing that had to be changed was the throttle body when the gear shift stuck. Other than that, it has been so cheap to maintain. I have put hardly any money into this car and it runs like a champ. I started with 86k miles and now have 212,000 with no problems. I would buy this car over again in a heartbeat. I hope when it dies, the new Accords are still made as well as this one.

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  Honda lives up to its name - 1998 Honda CR-V
  By JBarnes404 - January 30 - 7:14 pm

  This is a very very very good brand of autos, I was looking for an Expedition for about $10 K, but ran into a CRV, drove it and loved it...got it with 100000 miles now 126000 not one problem replaced the brake pads and oil changes this Honda looks and drives like new, I bet I can get well over 200000 miles we will see.

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  love it!!!!!!!!!!!!!! - 2000 Honda Odyssey
  By Lisa - January 29 - 11:46 pm

  Weve been Honda owners for 15 plus years. Purchased new in 2000. I love my van!! Side doors do stick at times. Just replaced the catalytic converter, but was covered under warranty/recall. We recommend to everyone.

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  Very reliable - 1995 Honda Accord
  By MQ - January 29 - 7:49 pm

  Bought with almost 158k miles on it. And after a little over a year, this car has given me no major mechanical issues. Only replaced front outer CV boots, and that was the biggest repair so far. I am confident that this car will give me at least ten more years of reliable service, long enough to get me through college and graduate school.

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  Excellent Vehicle - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By rsegerdahl - January 29 - 7:01 pm

  Offers excellent headroom for a 6ft 4inch person. Smooth riding, good milage, shift level sometimes goes to d3 but not a real problem. Excellent in snow and ice. After driving the car for 7 months I definitely would recommend the vehicle to friends.

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  THE PERFECT CAR !!! - 2011 Honda Accord Crosstour
  By dagerous - January 29 - 5:57 pm

  I love this car it drives sooo smooth !

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  Great Car - 2006 Honda Civic 2dr coupe A - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Barbara E. - January 28 - 8:00 pm

  I love driving this comfortable car. Gas mileage is great. Takes corners like a sports car. Love the rack and pinion steering. Interior design/dashboard is innovative. Sleek sporty look gets a lot of compliments.

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  my bread box - 2004 Honda Element
  By Ed Mast - January 27 - 11:41 pm

  I test drove this car as a goof. I immediately loved the comfort and its ride. I was pleasantly surprised. I commute about 45 miles each way to work and this is pure fun to be in. I know the look is strange but this car is functional. Its not as spacious for cargo as our Odyssey but it makes up for it in many other areas. We had our first snow of substance last weekend. We had 18 inches. Before the plows came down our street, I tested the real time 4 wheel drive. It was spectacular. I was impressed. It did not spin or swerve. It grabbed the road and I felt in control. Excellent job, Honda. We have 4 Hondas (Odyssey, Accord, Civic) and this is my favorite. Id recommend it to all.

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  Honda does it again!!!! - 2004 Honda S2000
  By jorge r hernandez - January 27 - 5:54 pm

  The best car Honda has ever made (next to the venerable NSX). Not to sound cliche, but from the first time I drove it off the lot I knew that I was in for the ride of my life. The S2000 is the great example of perfection in terms of form and function. The 240 hp engine wails all the way up to 9000 rpm (01-03) leaving anything on the road behind. The body is simple and crisp. Too simple for some but just right for the enthusiast.

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  The Most Fun Car Ive Ever Driven - 2004 Honda Element
  By elcid - January 27 - 10:00 am

  You either love or hate the Element. I happen to love it! Ive owned many cars before & this is the most fun Ive had. This vehicle is perfect for anyone who wants a car that is fun to own & unique (get used to being the center of attention whenever you pull up in your Element). At the same time, owning a Honda means youll have years of reliability.