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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  06 Accord SE - 2006 Honda Accord
  By Ron - September 10 - 7:50 am

  Still a nice car which honda cars are famous for thats why I opted for this car. Unfortunately I have some quality built issues with my car like rattling noises coming from the trunk, clicking noises coming from the left rear passenger compartment probably which houses the side curtain head airbag. The glove compartment doesnt align properly, Gaps on the exterior panel, Steering overcrowning on the road. Kinda dissapointed with these for a brand new Honda Accord. Will take to the dealer and Ill see how the service department performs customer service.

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  Saab story over. - 2008 Honda Civic
  By mike crowley - September 10 - 2:50 am

  I had a 2003 Saab 9-3, but did not want to spend 30 plus for another car and the headache of a "european import". The Civic Si is as fun, or more fun to drive than the Saab 9-3 was. The Saab was fun to drive that is when it was not in the shop. Think twice before a 30-40 thousand dollar car and check out the Si! A fantastic little pocket rocket inside and out!

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  Fun in the Sun - 2004 Honda S2000
  By Mark Geers - September 10 - 2:00 am

  Honda has solidified its reputation for engineering excellence with the S2000. Everything fits properly and operates flawlessly. The engine is virtually jewel-like in appearance. The car is an absolute kick to drive and is a real head-turner. The convertible top could not be easier to operate, and invites almost sybaritic delight in the outdoors.

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  Grrrreat Car - 1997 Honda Accord
  By jdsharc - September 10 - 2:00 am

  This is my 3rd Honda (83 Civic wagon, 86 Accord) and Ive driven the stuff out of it. The only money Ive put into it has been a timing belt - required - and some A/C work - not Hondas strongest link. I have no complaints about this car. Can see the benefits of a 5-speed, though and its a blast to drive.

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  Speed bumps - 2008 Honda Accord
  By cpacomp - September 10 - 12:10 am

  Got a great deal on the Honda Lease Very dissapointed in the ride. Each bump in the road seems like a speed bump. Front end shocks just not making it.

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  Wow !! - 2017 Honda Civic
  By kris turner - September 9 - 3:17 pm

  I have a 2007 Honda Civic. I researched the 2017 Hatchback before purchase. Ive had it for a few days and love it! It feels solid and surprisingly the acceleration has pep! Im not computer savvy but have been able to navigate the computer controls and settings with ease. I got the EX model. Just dont get suckered in at the dealer! Read Edmunds advice on B.S. Fees at the dealer and other new car buying advice. Also dont go over 3% of invoice price! If the dealer doesnt want to negotiate go to another one. Im a female and went in on my own and told them exactly what I would pay and not pay. I was firm and they knew it. I got my new Hatchback with the price I wanted to pay!

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  Luv my van! - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By Momwith2kids - September 9 - 2:00 am

  We bought my van after my 2nd child was born. I have 2 in child car seats and love that both side doors open wfor easy access for getting them in and out. The 3rd rear seat flips back acting as a great changing table area. Ive also used the floor in front of the 2nd seats to change diapers as there is enough space there too. Lots of cup holders. The rear seat hides in the trunk area giving lots of extra room back there for strollers. The trunk area is HUGE. The DVD player is great for occupying the kids. Leather is must with kids with all their crumbs and spills making it easy clean up. Lots of interior space to move around inside on long trips.

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  Good car few issues with head unit - 2016 Honda Accord
  By Viswanath Somanchi - September 8 - 11:50 am

  This is great comfortable car. Only issue is head unit got turned off and did not start back. Finally one fine day car battery is drained and I need to jump start the vehicle and the head unit is back to life. Head unit is dead for almost a week until car battery is drained and dealership could not diagnose the problem. Everything works well after the above mentioned issue and have driven more than 8500 miles and it is great reliable car. If we can spend some time and get the right seating position which makes you comfortable to drive for long hours we can easily drive 1000 miles a day on this car I have driven 935 miles in a day.

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  My First and only - 1997 Honda Civic
  By beavetm - September 8 - 2:00 am

  I have driving my car for over seven years and have only had it in the shop for a major repair one time. I must say that this car has got me through high school, college and beyond. It is a wonderful first car for young drivers because it looks sharp and is relatively inexpensive. I will never buy another car except a Honda in the future, but I plan to keep my Civic forever.

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  Mail Carrier Vehicle - 2001 Honda CR-V
  By Dar - rural carrier - September 8 - 2:00 am

  Over 107,000 miles of stop & go delivery of mail through snow, ice, & mud with no problems. Excellent gas mileage on the route, even better on the highway. This little SUV wont fly around a V6 going up hill, but its the most dependable SUV on the route.