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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  Made the right choice - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By Jim - June 23 - 7:21 am

  After 11 months and 18,000 miles we love the Pilot more than when we bought it. We have three boys and we wanted something wide for long trips but not as long or high as a Sequoia. The Pilot was a perfect fit. Its well designed. The third row is very useful for the 8-11 year olds we always have tagging along. My wife loves driving it.It has great pick up for us (were used to under powered SUVs). Gas mileage is a little disappointing but it is a heavy vehicle. We get about 18 mpg in town and 20 mpg at 73-75 mph.

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  Try it, youll like it. - 2010 Honda Insight
  By Tim - June 23 - 4:26 am

  I considered buying a Prius given the deals currently available. But, after driving an Insight I bought it the same day. Not to say that the Prius isnt a good bargain at the moment, I just found the Insight to be a better overall car. Yes... a little smaller, mileage not quite as good. On the other hand, more comfortable driving position and much more fun to drive. Took it on a 700 mile trip this past weekend. Quite comfortable for myself, my wife and one 8 year old. Put it in sports mode for the Long Island Expressway and youre good to go!

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  96 Honda - 1996 Honda Accord
  By 96 honda - June 22 - 10:00 pm

  I purchased my Honda in Aug 1995. I have close to 186,000 miles. It has been a reliable vehicle, but of course now that it has more miles on it, it is starting to cost a pretty penny for repairs. I had problems with the power windows and locks after about 5 years of ownership. Ive had more problems in the past 2 years with the high mileage. Ive replaced the radiator, axles, oxygen sensor and a list of other things. My paint has worn and I was told that it is a paint defect. I know other people with the green car with the same problem. I cant complain because Ive had the car for almost 12 years with no major problems.

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  I Love My Car - 2005 Honda Accord
  By Richard J - June 22 - 9:00 pm

  I love my car, it has it all. V6, leather, heated seats. The navigation is the best, voice command. Plus 240 hp. I have absolutely no complaints except that it would be neat if the doors unlocked when you opened them while locked, but other than that I love my car.

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  ridgeline is the best - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By ron - June 22 - 3:36 pm

  i have put 22000 miles on in 4 months and have had no problems it is the best truck i have ever had it tows great plenty of power

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  My ridgeline - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By KNOX TN - June 22 - 1:40 pm

  I had a hard time getting use to the front grille. It grows on you after a while. I love the truck overall except it is not getting the 16 mpg on the window, closer to 15 mpg or a little less.

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  Best Truck Ive Ever Driven - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By SH - June 22 - 1:10 pm

  Awesome drive. Quiet, roomy, comfortable, best navi on the market. An MDX with a bed and a trunk.

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  Stepped up Honda - 2008 Honda Accord
  By honda lover - June 22 - 12:26 pm

  I love this new Honda. The larger body style is very roomy inside. The outside redesign is very slick. This car is everything every Honda lover wants plus more. The stepped power of the 4cylinder gives the car the smoothness of a v6 drive. Highly recommend this car to anyone who wants a great value car that will last a lifetime.

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  nice, but could be better - 2001 Honda Civic
  By civicex01 - June 22 - 10:00 am

  good, solid car, but I miss my eg hatchback with its better suspenion and handeling. All other new Hondas and Acuras get big power upgrades, except the civics.

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  Excellent Quality - 2002 Honda Accord
  By ChoseHondaOvrAcura - June 22 - 10:00 am

  I test drove the Acura TSX and the Acura TL before chosing this Accord with 21K miles. The TSX was a bit small and did not accelerate as smoothly as the V6 Accord. The TL is wonderful but a bit pricey and uses premium fuel. I chose the Accord with 200 HP & leather interior so I have an affordable luxury car with only 60 horses less than the TL. In average driving I wont miss the 60 HP. I considered buying a new Accord but the 02 had one owner will all the service records and price was perfect. Im considering putting 17in wheels on it to replace the 15in that came with it.