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:

• 

  Well Rounded - 2006 Honda Accord
  By Chris - April 29 - 2:56 pm

  Three months, NO REGRETS. Great balance of performance and amenities for the price. Smooth transmission and seemingly power in all gears. Form and function in one slick car.

• 

  In My Element - 2006 Honda Element
  By FRL Hammer - April 29 - 2:40 pm

  This vehicle is every reson to own a Honda. It is a solid well built car. It is compact on the outside. Huge well designed hauling space on the inside. Seats are wide and comfortable. The engine is a bit under powered. Fuel economey is a true 23 mpg

• 

  Excellent automobile - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By Cheryl - April 29 - 6:53 am

  This is definitely one of the best automobiles Ive ever owned. The smooth ride and roominess is such a pleasure for a small suv. Excellent gas mileage. You can even feel how solidly made it is just by shutting the door.

• 

  New Pilot owner... LOVE this car! - 2007 Honda Pilot
  By Jennifer W - April 28 - 11:09 pm

  Ive only had my Pilot for 3 days, but I am absolutely sold on Honda now! We looked at all of the midsize SUVs and for the money, this was the best value hands down. I love the fact that all side curtain airbags come standard, and that shoulder belts are available for all passengers, even in the 3rd row. There is virtually no road noise, and it rides like a dream. I just love everything about this vehicle so far! Just waiting to check the mileage... hoping it gets what the sticker says it will. I feel great about having this as our family car - I was sold as soon as I saw the safety ratings. If you are looking for a lot of bang for your buck, test drive the Pilot!

• 

  Okay Car - 2010 Honda Civic
  By Honda_Guy80 - April 28 - 7:40 pm

  Traded my V6 VW Passat GLX for this Honda. The reason I was looking for something more reliable and fuel friendly. As expected performance was much different than what I am used to. Felt light but handling was okay. after 2 weeks of driving it gives me about 29 m/g which is really nice. I went for EX-L full option trim which I kind regret since it came to 24K and the car still does not feel luxurious. For that price I think I could got better but too late and it was my fault.

• 

  Still chuggin along - 1997 Honda Civic
  By Will C - April 28 - 6:25 pm

  I bought the car new back in February 1997. Its now over 10 years old. What can I say about this car? Its been through 2 accidents, 2 AC systems (compressor locked and then a rock flew right into it), 5 windshields, blown head gasket, but its still running along. The car still looks new, since I take care of my car, except the front. I drive A LOT! The paint is peeling on the front bumper and the hood, but the rest of the car looks new. Its getting time to buy another car. But I want to see the odometer roll to over 200K, and then Im selling it off. I cant believe a lot of people are still interested in this car. Im movin on up. Im looking into buying either a TSX or Accord

• 

  first van other than ford or or chevy - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By Ed - April 28 - 2:00 pm

  This van has been a pleasure. Enjoy the maintenance reminder. The quietness and the comfort.The tires that give you the extra mileage when you have a flat tire. The heated seats, (great for arthritus).Do not use the xtra storage area as it is not that accesible. Glove compartment are on the small side. But the under seat draw seems to compensate for that. The min complaint is the magaine holer on the back of front seats, very flimsy.

• 

  The perfect small car - 2008 Honda Civic
  By arcticracer - April 28 - 10:16 am

  This little car is a gem. My first criteria was MPG, but I got way more than I expected. It was hard to find one with a manual, but I am old school (52 yrs) and prefer it by far. After over 7000 Alaska miles I have averaged 33.7 MPG. On the highway in summer I have reached over 46. With a set of General Altimax Arctic studded tires my Civic sticks to the gnarly Alaska winter roads like glue. Snow tires cost 5 MPG. Handling is precise, sporty, and steering balanced and neutral, leaning slightly toward oversteer. With over 6 months of ice and snow, I have been amazed with the sure-footed habits of the Civic. My wife also loves driving it.

• 

  Great Minivan! - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By San Anton - April 27 - 10:12 pm

  If youre looking for a great minivan thats fun to drive and looks nice, look no further. We drove all the top brands and Honda wins any comparison, hands down. That being said, the Toyota is a close second however, the ride isnt near as smooth or quiet and its expensive option packages make buying one a not-so- great experience. Weve had our LX for a year and we couldnt be happier (unless of course we had the touring model, but thats a bit outside our budget). If youre thinking of buying a minivan, drive the Honda first then compare the others. Youll see what I mean.

• 

  9 Years Old and Going Strong - 1998 Honda Odyssey
  By Elizabeth - April 27 - 7:29 pm

  I love my 1998 Odyssey! Its 9 years old and has never given me any trouble. I currently have 110,000 miles on it, and aside from routine maintenance, I never have a concern. It is boring to drive, but it never pretended to be a sports car. It is very comfortable, and I wish Honda still made them this size. I would buy another one. Sometimes I wish it would die, so I could get something sportier, but then common sense kicks in and I remember what a great investment this vehicle was/is! I hope I can get another 100,000 miles out of it.