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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  Power vs. Fuel Economy - 2005 Honda Accord
  By RobertFL - September 17 - 1:04 pm

  I have owned the car for a few months now and have had no real problems with the vehicle. Those who are hesitant about the fuel milage, think of it: its a V6 Hybrid, not a 4cyl hybrid. If I wanted to get from point A to point A and 1/2, I would have purchased a 4cyl. For a V6, you cannot beat the fuel mileage. I have a lead foot and average 26 in the city. I get 35 on the highway at 85mph assuming I drive 150 miles. The electric motor only assists the car, not takes over the place of the engine. The engine stops when the car stops and does the A/C compressor. If you shift to a low gear then put it back in place, your car will stay running. I personally like the car. Tons of power.

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  Another Great Honda Vehicle - 2010 Honda CR-V
  By Ken - September 17 - 9:26 am

  My 2010 CR-V is more than I thought it would be. It handles great and has a lot less road noise than my Civic. At 1500 RPM in high gear it has a low hum coming from the drive train. There is a big blind spot directly behind the car, this is because of the high rear window. I am averaging 19 city and 26 HWY, and hope this improves. There is plenty of power with this new engine and it response well. Interior is great on looks, and the lay out is great, sound system top of the line. This vehicle has a lot of class, and my wife loves driving it.

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  Vibration - 2015 Honda CR-V
  By mike952 - September 17 - 1:11 am

  This is my third CRV and I have always been pleased. My new 2015 CRV vibrates and Honda knows about the problem, but has no idea what to do about it. Honda will not guarantee it will not have any long term effect. So I have a new $30,000 car with a problem that Honda cannot fix, sadly disappointed with Honda. My local dealer has been excellent despite not knowing what to do.

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  Her car - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By Richard Jones - September 17 - 12:52 am

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  Almost - 2007 Honda Civic
  By cz75 - September 16 - 3:40 pm

  Probably the nicest Honda product Ive owned, but you can feel that there was more cost-cutting here than in the past, as while there are more features, the car doesnt seem as sturdy as previous models. Also, there are some glitches like a notchy, recalcitrant third gear and the strange surge from drive-by-wire when cold and the car isnt as smooth to shift as past Hondas Ive owned.

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  Im in my Element - 2004 Honda Element
  By cmmathison - September 16 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle fits my lifestyle perfectly. With kid, dog, beach, camping, it is functional, easy to keep clean and easy to get in and out of. I didnt want the typical SUV and definately didnt want a mini-van. The Element provides the function without the soccer mom look. I took it to a family reunion shortly after getting my new Element and EVERYONE wanted to get inside of it and take a look. It was a hit!

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  suggestion - 2004 Honda Element
  By bruce and barbara - September 16 - 10:00 am

  we were driving a eddie bauer expidtion fully loaded needed something to pull behind our motor home. have completely fell in love with this car. my wife has a jaquar, but would rather drive my car.

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  i dont know - 2004 Honda Element
  By asdgha - September 16 - 10:00 am

  It is good on snow days because i can take my children to school right away with no delay. It is very easy to clean on my own iside and on the outside. I like the subwoofer that is sitting inbetween the driver seat and the passanger seat. I know that it picks up good on the acceleration because i am always trying to get out ahead of other cars.It turns very sharp and is easy to get around the corners. It is fun to sit out in the car and watch the stars through the sun roof.

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  HONDA VS TOYOTA - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By MIKE E - September 16 - 10:00 am

  I DROVE BOTH MINIVAN AND FOUND OUT THAT THE HONDA DROVE BETTER. I ALSO LIKED THAT IT USED REGULAR GAS

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  Fun Family Car - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By Piloter1 - September 16 - 10:00 am

  Fun to drive, Kids like bein the middle and way-back. Plenty of room to pack for long trips. Gas milage is the one drawback -- but true for SUV class in all. Pilot is better than most SUVs