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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  A/C On Elm Street - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By jboo - July 19 - 6:36 pm

  Yes, another A/C nightmare story! I am on my 6th, yes SIXTH, A/C since I bought this otherwise nifty car new in 2003. Not happy here, however, the A/C guy is thrilled.

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  Good cheap car - 2010 Honda Fit
  By dhjohnso - July 19 - 12:31 pm

  I wanted a reliable 2nd car for low cost. I was willing to sacrifice "luxury" for lower cost. The FIT fills the bill.

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  Happy Odyssey Owner - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By Onlysee - July 18 - 3:36 am

  My wife and I put over 60,000 miles on our Odyssey (and raised 3 kids "in it") before trading it in for a 2010 last month. It was extremely reliable, and we never had a problem with it that stranded us anywhere. We had the VERY COMMON problem of the power steering pump and reservoir on our van (both were replaced). We had 2 engine mounts & the automatic transmission replaced (EVERYTHING under warranty) at approximately 58,000 miles.

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  Excellent Car - 2006 Honda Accord
  By Steve - July 17 - 8:04 pm

  It does all things well, but nothing spectacularly. That having been said, I dont appreciate it until I have to drive something else then I want my Accord back. Handling is excellent. 3.0 L V6 makes good power and torque.

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  Overall opinion - 2010 Honda Accord
  By wfdfire76 - July 17 - 9:23 am

  I have owned this vehicle for a month now. I have put about 1,500 miles on it already. I honestly didnt research other vehicles because i knew that Honda is pretty much one of if not the most reliable vehicle out there. How many recalls have you heard Honda have? -) I have been please with the vehicle for the most part.

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  94 honda prelude si - 1994 Honda Prelude
  By SteveD - July 16 - 9:44 pm

  This car is a wonder to have. Unlike many cars this will keep you on the road for years. My H23 si has over 260,000 miles on it and still flied down the road with no problems, But just remember to change the timing belt before 100,000 miles or there could be a problem. On the good side I took the head off the engine and wow I couldnt believe how there was no sludge in the cylinder head. Great on gas I get 27 miles a gallon. Others say parts are expensive. No they are not. I get my clutch for 200 bucks not $1000 Honda is the way to go.

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  Good car, but noisy - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Tom - July 16 - 2:49 pm

  Original owner, now 7+ years old with about 70,000 miles, overall very reliable, nothing beyond regular maintenance until this year though the brakes need replacement too frequently. I had the rear first done at 20,000. Excellent mileage - 34-35 consistently on the long freeway trips, 26-28 in town mixed driving. The car is very responsive and peppy. The ride is a bit harsh however, and there is way too much road noise for a car in this class. This is my first Honda and Ive been told road noise is common. My car tends to drift to the left and dealers have been unable to fully fix it. Annoying but not a huge deal.

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  Excessive Road Noise - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By niteflite777 - July 13 - 10:12 pm

  The CR-V is a very practical car with excellent interior and exterior design. Even the sales guy at Nissan when test driving the Rogue told me the CR-V is perhaps the best in its class. Ive gotten good use out of it - is roomy enough, provides good MPG and options on the EX. The biggest problem with this car is the loud road noise. at any speed over 25 mph i hear the engine, vibrations, and just noise. It make me paranoid that there is something wrong with the suspension or tires but the common theme in these reviews is the road noise.

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  Just Okay - 2008 Honda Civic
  By Rebecca - July 13 - 10:07 pm

  Though not exciting to look at or drive, my Honda does the job. Love the gas mileage - that in and of itself is what makes the car a great buy. Comfort really lacks though. Driver seat is not good for long drives.

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  20K miles and 15 months later - 2009 Honda Accord
  By Mark - July 13 - 5:32 pm

  My Accord is a terrific city car and once I figured out that I had to adjust my seat to be more straight backed than I had been used to, the seat became more comfortable for longer drives. The car remains solid, I have not yet had the rear brake problems others have noted and my overall gas mileage is around 25 MPG, not bad. This car handles beautifully for a fwd sedan, but the road noise is noticeable, Honda can do better. Overall, I really like this car but the seats and the road noise keep me from completely loving it. Build quality is excellent, there are absolutely no squeaks or rattles. I can tell this car will wear well over the years.