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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  BEWARE! Road test before buying! - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By BIG swede - May 16 - 1:23 am

  I traded in my 03 Odyssey for 06. 06 has had vibrations in steering wheel at highway cruising speeds since purchase which make vehicle annoying, tiring and perhaps even unsafe to drive. Also excessive steering "kickback" from bumps and imperfections in pavement. Honda has balanced tires twice with no improvement. Suggest you road test Odyssey at highway speed before purchasing.

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  Great Car - 1994 Honda Accord
  By Chris - May 16 - 12:41 am

  I loved this car. Someone ran into me and totaled it, otherwise I would still have it for a long time. When it was totaled it had 175,000 miles on it. Never had anything break on it. The ABS light was on and needed a new computer.

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  Wins for its use of interior space - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Mike - May 15 - 7:13 pm

  We test drove all the midsize SUVs looking for one with economical V6 power, good looks, and ample interior space. The Pilot won the contest for its excellent use of space on the inside. 8-person capacity (assuming some of those 8 are kids), a plethora of storage places, and fold-flat rear seats. While I am not a fan of column shifters, it allowed Honda to really make the center console useful. The exterior styling is so-so. The navigation system is touch-screen and fully operable while driving (for better or worse) but otherwise pales in comparison to the Pathfinders. The Pathfinder also trumps the Pilot with regards to performance. The Pilot can handle light-to-moderate off-road use.

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  I absolutely love my 2016 Honda Pilot ex-l - 2016 Honda Pilot
  By Terri - May 15 - 11:56 am

  I bought the 2016 Honda Pilot Ex-L AWD in white pearl with beige leather interior. I traded in my 2009 pilot Ex-L which had 71,000 miles for the 2016 model, and couldnt be happier. The car handles beautifully on the road and accelerates with ease (maybe too much ease, I really have to watch my speedometer!). It is a quiet, smooth ride compared to the 2009 model. The interior is gorgeous. I wasnt sure Id like the beige leather, but its a bit darker than I expected when I saw it in person and I loved it. The only complaint I have about the interior is the right arm rest for the driver is small. I was used to resting my entire arm on the big console in the 2009 pilot, and now its a slim but moveable shadow of what it used to be. The center console lies deeper in between the two front seats making more room for setting your purse or phone down which is why they changed it probably. I have been reading about issues the infotainment center has been giving some people, but I have had no issues whatsoever. I enjoy being able to listen to music from my phone wirelessly and think the sound is great. The Bluetooth and phone system works fine as well with a great connection, I drove through a 1-mile tunnel today and my call never broke up. I have not bought the Honda link (Aha) app after reading the many unfavorable reviews, so I cant speak to that yet, but other than that the infotainment center works great. I dont find it complicated at all and I use the steering wheel controls for the radio, iPod or answering calls while driving so no need to fumbling with the touch screen endangering myself as some people have complained about. I also enjoy how the center screen below the speedometer which tells me the mileage, tire pressure, compass, etc., all super easy to go between using the steering wheel control. I have used the remote starter which is a nice added touch, especially on a cold day in the northeast when my car is outside. I can jump in and its nice and toasty and ready to go. The storage space is great and the third row seems roomier than the 2009 pilot, though no one has utilized that seat for a trip yet. I absolutely love this vehicle and all the improvements Honda has made. This is my third pilot and by far the best. Good job Honda on making a beautiful, reliable, safe and fun vehicle. I look forward to driving in luxury for years to come.

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  A disappointment. - 2006 Honda Civic
  By drsowell - May 14 - 11:46 pm

  Id always wanted a Honda, so finally bought one (a new Civic) in Dec. 2006; fit & finish are good, however annoying petty issues have left me very disappointed in this model. Fuel mileage is superb however mysterious "thumping" noise in right front end that cannot be repaired, and bad power steering pump negates any positivity on my part. Interior visor had to be replaced. Several recalls. Tire noise and longevity is a problem also. May trade after national economy improves.

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  My first truck drives like a car - 2007 Honda Ridgeline
  By STEVE - May 14 - 10:02 pm

  I traded in my 2003 Infinity G35 sedan for the deluxe Ridgeline. While the interior design doesnt measure up to the Infinity it sure beats the pants off all other trucks I checked out. The charcoal grey metalic is the best color option. The only beef I have with the exterior is the omission of side door protectors and rails, both after market or dealer added options. I get 17 city/highway and 20 highway MPG with regular unleaded, not bad for a 4600lb truck! I also added an after market bed protector and under rear seat mat. I might add that there is planty of storage in the cab including a huge space between the front seats.

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  Update on 3 year old review - 1993 Honda Accord
  By W Cooke - May 14 - 9:42 pm

  Since I wrote the last review on this car, things have only gotten much worse. Car now has 142k miles. Things that have had to be replaced so far: CV joints 2X, tie rod ends, upper ball joints and control arms, rear engine mount, A/C, ABS, rear rotors, front rotors 2X, exhaust 3X, oil pressure switch, oil pan gasket, power antenna, rear window seal, 6 headlamps. This car is much faster than its suspension can handle. I had heard that Honda built very reliable cars. This is 10 times over the WORST car Ive ever owned.

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  Tonys HCH 5speed - 2003 Honda Civic
  By Tony Higgins - May 14 - 8:01 pm

  Bought this car to save money in anticipation of rising gas prices. It was purchased for commuting but we drive it on trips too. I have logged every fill-up and calculate a lifetime average of 46 MPG. Mileage is cyclic with weather here in western NY. In winter get as low as 38 MPG. Summer as high as 53 MPG. At 68000 miles I estimate a savings of $1700 over a car with average of 30 MPG. Trade-in value is $2800 greater than 2003 Civic LX. Have had no maintenance issues. On second set of tires and still original brakes. I enjoy owning this car and will keep it until it rusts in half. I will buy another alternate energy vehicle at the next opportunity.

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  Problems - 1999 Honda Passport
  By MT TROBLE - May 14 - 3:07 pm

  I bought mine in 2003, soon afer I had problems with. The first major problem was the in take valve gasket went out that cost $400. That last for 3 years, then same problem repeated. There is problem with transmission. Once in while it would shift very rough but goes away after turn off and restart it.

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  Accord - 2007 Honda Accord
  By Tim - May 14 - 2:33 pm

  Best car that I have owned, so far. Quality is no 1. Amazing room for a Honda. And great handling. Cant even hear the engine run!