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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  OUTSTANDING SPORTS CAR - 2004 Honda S2000
  By Paul Parker - August 19 - 2:00 am

  Pick up on this car is great, though A little small for a 6"2 230 man it still has its on way to tell you dont worry.

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  An amazing car - 1997 Honda Accord
  By JCA - August 19 - 2:00 am

  These cars continually amaze me. I bought mine from the first owner, and it had 100K on it. I couldnt believe how well it still ran, though. It was like driving a new car. The only thing the previous owner had replaced was the tires and the timeing belt. Its a beautiful looking car, and is so solidly built Ill easily be able to run up another 100K on it before I even need to think about replacing anything.

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  Love my Pilot! - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By Pilotmom - August 19 - 2:00 am

  I love this vehicle. Only disappointment is that there are no garment hooks! Small thing, but a huge thing when you are bring home dry cleaning or going on a trip.

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  civic lover!!! - 2003 Honda Civic
  By darthchu - August 19 - 2:00 am

  this is my 4th civic, but my first brand new one! theres not much to be said that already hasnt here about this great car. great looks (inside and out), fuel economy, reliability. you expect quality from honda and they delivered. its pretty peppy for only having 127 horses and i never stop for yellow lights anymore ;) its been 6 months now and the excitement of having a new car still hasnt worn off yet! its still a blast to drive!!!

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  Accord ex w/L - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Ron-Bin - August 19 - 2:00 am

  powerful engine, quiet cabin, comfortable interior, special exterior, high reliabilty and quality, good speakers

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  Honda+5speed MT=Pure Driving Bliss - 2004 Honda Accord
  By rickl0018 - August 19 - 2:00 am

  Well this is my second Honda vehicle in the last year. I just purchased a 2003 Honda Element a year ago to the date when I purchased our new Accord EX-L with the navigation (for the wife, yeah right!). I love everything about this car. The stick shift is unbelievable, smooth as butter. It drives and handles like a champ. The inside comfort is second to none. And the navigation is absolutely awesome. Display nearest restaurants is my favorite option. You can not beat the value for the price. I paid a little over invoice and I do not regret it one bit. All I can say is Honda delivers some of the finest vehicles in the business.

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  Best Decision Ever! - 2004 Honda Accord
  By bradleyr - August 19 - 2:00 am

  Seriously..I looked at all the other cars...This one not only gave me the most for the money, but also gave me everything other cars that cost more money didnt even offer (ie, XM Radio Standard on EX-L)

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  CollegeGuy review - 1996 Honda Accord
  By absolute78 - August 19 - 1:10 am

  What a great car! It looks great, the V6 is a blast to drive, and with 70K miles on mine, it still feels, looks, and drives like its 6 months old!

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  Happy new lessor! - 2016 Honda Fit
  By Aaron Schwartz - August 19 - 12:14 am

  Nearly everything has been spectacular with this car! Were getting 33 City / 42 Highway, exactly as advertised. Ive never driven a CVT before and find it to be quite easy to use and peppy. Very comfortable seats all around, even for my 61" father to ride in the back. Cargo room is incredible for such a small car (and even compared to many larger cars) - we could easily replace our van with this for 99% of cargo needs. If you had to press me to complain about something, the only negative I can think of is that the door panel isnt as thick as those on my previous cars, and I like to rest my arm there on long trips. Rush out and get one!

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  180,000 and Still Going Strong - 1990 Honda Civic
  By OregonDan - August 18 - 2:00 am

  180,000 miles and still going strong with no problems except for poor radio reception.