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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  Things Have Been Fixed and Im Happy now - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Conner*** - November 27 - 7:36 am

  We finally got everything fixed. The dealership was awesome in handling all the problems Ive written down, and trust me there were many, but now, the car is great no problems, no rattle nothing. We have 26,000 miles on it and its really doing great. I blew the speakers once because there was a defect in the back speakers, the dealership suprisingly fixed it without any question. I think the dealership was shaken when my mother said that we had to buy a new car and probably werent going to buy another Honda if its like this one has been.

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  I love this car - 2004 Honda S2000
  By jimslocer - November 27 - 1:47 am

  A wonderful convertible. I drove several makes and models and picked this one. Corners like its on rails, goes fast, stops well and what can you say about top down driving in the summertime. I would pick it as a second or third car however since its small and lots of noise with the top up. Its a great second car for me in Minneapolis because I store it in the winter and use my truck in the winter.

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  Best Car Ive ever had,Ill never sell it. - 1992 Honda Accord
  By fredweddle - November 25 - 11:57 am

  Well, I bought this car with low miles (87,200) from an elderly woman, the car ran great, was garaged its entire life, and looked like new inside and out. I did spend money on maintenance, totalling $2400 alone, and had originally purchased for $1600, so $4000 isnt bad for a car thats impeccable, hasnt been mistreaded, and still has alot of life left in it. I sold it a few months after I bought it because I was desperate for money. I recently got a call from the woman the purchased it from me asking me if I would like to purchase it back from her. I did!!! I didnt want to sell it to begin with, but as the saying goes: "If you love something, let it go, if it comes back it was yours..."

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  Pilot Wins Hands Down! - 2009 Honda Pilot
  By chicaojoe - November 25 - 6:40 am

  After 6 months of research, watching this forum, looking at the other internet sites - and waiting for the Honda cash incentives to return ($1,500 on Pilot till 2/2/09) - I pulled the trigger and bought a new Pilot two weeks ago. I looked at everything in this category including Highlander, Veracruz, CX-9, Traverse, Arcadia and the Acura MDX. Hands down, the Pilot trounces them all in features, technology and value. This vehicle has better tech than even the more expensive Acura MDX (USB audio interface for iPod). If you are looking at a mid/full size SUV - you must consider the Pilot. My wife loves the storage and the smooth handling. I love the tech toys - bluetooth, navi, iPod, etc.

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  A good choice - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By Elmer PHD - November 25 - 5:40 am

  I was impressed with the comfort on my first long trip and I got 28 mpg. Good pick up and speed even up steep mountain grades.

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  The tailgate machine - 2003 Honda Element
  By pennstate99 - November 23 - 9:54 pm

  fun to drive, get a lot of looks, lots of room for tailgating, and camping. thought was ugly at first, but it grows on you.

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  This Car iS The BeST!!! - 2002 Honda Civic
  By BiGDoG - November 23 - 5:10 pm

  Well I had no problems since I got this car. *Knocks on Wood* This car get excellent mileage. Its looks are apealing. I cant stop looking at it. Everyone should go out and buy one of these cars. I highly recommend it.

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  A great value - 2016 Honda Fit
  By ladrondelanoche@gmail.com - November 23 - 4:09 am

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  Wow - 2008 Honda Accord
  By rjudge - November 23 - 2:23 am

  Purchased this vehicle after careful review of the Camry, Altima and Malibu. Uncomfortable in Camry, Had a Nissan before, rough ride. Test drove Honda and enjoyed the firm yet very comfortable ride. Fuel economy is great. Drove from Lafayette, LA to Orlando. Averaged 33.5 mi/gal. Same on trip to Houston. Overall averaging about 25-27 MPG. Handles very well, sure footed. If you like to drive and want great economy pass the other cars mentioned, this is the one youll enjoy.

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  a true believer - 2007 Honda Civic
  By Michael - November 23 - 1:23 am

  a truly fantastic car. I was going to purchase a volkswagen gti. after test drive and overall price civic does the trick. the fact the stability control was added this year sealed the deal.