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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  I cant belive this is a Honda - 2006 Honda Accord
  By bugsy123 - September 23 - 8:56 am

  When I decided to purchase a new car, there were many models and makes that I had in mind. I testes the Acura TSX and the Acura TL as well as the Nissan Maxima and Altima. The last car that I tested was the 2006 Accord EX V6. My initial impressions were that it ahd the fell of a luxury car and the personality of a sports car. It handles well and has more than enough power to satisfy the side of you that wants to get up and go full throttle. In my opinion and after extensive research, the accord is a steal for the price and should be at the very least test driven by anyone looking for a well balanced, medium-priced car with a reputation for rock solid reliability.

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  It Just Keeps Going! - 1995 Honda Prelude
  By Spirited - September 23 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car with 127000 miles on it. The car has been amazing. Nothing but normal service needed at 176000 miles. Runs great. I have never added a drop of oil Fun to drive. The car is driven every day and this includes a good bit of stop and go driving. Amazing vehicle. Only problem is a bit of paint fading from sitting out in the open all theise years.

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  Honda Magic - 1999 Honda Accord
  By AtlantaGuy - September 23 - 2:00 am

  This is the best car ever. We love it and people always comment on it. Its a head turner and fun to drive. This is the 7th Honda weve bought in our car buying career. We just bought an 88 Civic (#8) with 260,000 miles with no fear for our college son. My 90 Accord has more than 300,000 miles and is still running strong. We LOVE Hondas!

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  Love it! - 2010 Honda CR-V
  By Kate - September 23 - 1:20 am

  I just love my CR-V. Traded in a 99 Buick. My kids accused me of driving old-ladies cars so a crossover is a big change for me. Love the height/view it gives me. Peppy on the road with good, sharp turn capability and tight handling. I cant wait to drive it everyday. Thrilled with all the extras-leather, moonroof, heated mirrors and front seat. Dash is well light with sensibly laid out indicators. Excellent braking. Hubby is jealous the CR-V is mine!

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  better than my BMW 335i except the drop top - 2016 Honda Accord
  By mike duffy - September 22 - 3:41 pm

  the Honda v6 is an excellent value and great fun to drive. larger than the 335i, 6 inches wider and a foot longer but handling is excellent and has a more stable feel. I strongly recommend it

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  Great car for its class - 2014 Honda Odyssey
  By Tim Ehrlich - September 22 - 4:58 am

  If you are going to get a minivan this car defines the class; it is no wonder everyone buys them.

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  My first Honda - 2006 Honda Civic
  By William - September 20 - 4:20 pm

  I decided to make the leap to a Honda after all the reliabilty stories I have heard. I actually went to dealer to look at Accords, but when I saw the mpg for civic, I was sold. I love how it drives, handles, the ergonomics, design. It is not a tire burner, but it is what it is, a economy car.

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  Element Safety - 2004 Honda Element
  By Carl Lawford - September 20 - 10:00 am

  I bought my Element as soon as it was introduced last Summer, and have never regretted it. Resently another motorist pulled out in front of me and total my car. The Element took it like a tank. The enginered unibody frame and engine did just what it was suppost to do. I walked away with barely a scratch. My next car will once again be an Element. Its the most versatile SUV out there. Ive camped in it, taken it to the beach and painted watercolors from the tailgate, hulled 2x4s, plywood, furniture, a clothes dryer and taken my 2 dogs hiking. Its been a great car.

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  Honda Pilot - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By kjwagner - September 20 - 10:00 am

  Represents my first SUV purchase. The Pilot has made it a smoother transition from years of owning sedans. So far it has proved to demanstrate the samereliability that Honda has been known for. Had an Accura TL & the Pilot has many of same comfort & performance features .

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  Personal experience - 2004 Honda Civic
  By gertrudis6 - September 20 - 10:00 am

  I just love the car. All around the proformance surprises me everytime. It handles well both in city and highway. If I had gotten an automatic, I would have been disappointed.