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:

• 

  12+ Year Old Accord - 1995 Honda Accord
  By autoboy16 - March 10 - 2:15 pm

  My dad bought me this car because I was getting a job soon, and going back and forth to school. This aging car still has pep! 170 hp and averaging 24 MPG in the city and I dont do much highway travel. Its not Super Fast but it does have get up and go!! It rarely leaves me wanting for more. The leather seats are in great shape without rips or tears. The sunroof is FUN(ctional) and I use it almost daily! The trunk has more than enough space for me. I love the ergonomics. Everything falls right where you expect them to be. From the cold ac to the amazing old stereo with CD player! The windows are slow but tolerable for a 12 year old car. Some elbow grease fixes that.

• 

  very nice & reliable - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By shah - March 10 - 12:49 pm

  We have driven from Ga to Tn and back. Then we moved from Ga to Tx and now we live in Ms. So we have driven a lot of highway miles and have no complaints at all. It is very fun to drive and there is plenty of room.

• 

  Conversation Piece or Car? - 2003 Honda Element
  By healthking - March 10 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car primarily because it was affordable, had a plethora of fun features, and looked original. I had no idea about the best feature that this car offers---its head-turning ability. I have had the car for 3 days, and Ive already given half a dozen tours and been asked questions by another motorist while speeding down the highway. Great fun.

• 

  2003 Honda element - 2003 Honda Element
  By F. Tyrrell - March 10 - 10:00 am

  I was looking for a vehicle to take and return two children from college. Additionally I would use it for large major purchases. and home projects to include gardening. For its price there is nothing that even came close to compete with the Element.

• 

  All ownership should be like this - 1999 Honda Accord
  By Saintor - March 10 - 10:00 am

  This is my second Accord. I purchased the car at the end of my 48 months lease. For what it is, it drives great. It inspires confidence on the road and the car is easy to position even over the limits. An ideal format for me and it is very roomy. I wouldnt be confortable in a smaller car like an A4 or 3-series. I had a few minor issues, but no unexpected out of pocket expense in 110000km. (except the tire jack that crashed with no reason)! Service from dealer (Blainville) is very good. Styling is contemporary and better than average for the class. I can only recommend.

• 

  Beautiful Car - 2002 Honda Civic
  By Donell - March 10 - 10:00 am

  I love the car. I do wish like all the other people that Honda would have put a little more power into it. The car is really light and is sometimes a problem to drive in rain.

• 

  2003 Civic SI - 2003 Honda Civic
  By 373500 - March 10 - 10:00 am

  Have had the car for about 6 weeks already have put 2,000 miles on it. Each day the car becomes more fun to drive,fit and finish quality are excellant, dont listen to the negative reviews, buy one and you will love it.

• 

  02 Honda Accord Coupe - 2002 Honda Accord
  By jhebrink - March 10 - 10:00 am

  Overall, very positive. Although the fuel economy was a bit disappointing. I would sacrifice fuel economy for the V6 though. Very comfortable ride for a 45 mile each way daily commute. 0 maintenance problems I think it says alot about the car that one of my suggested improvements is as petty as cup holder placement.

• 

  1st Honda - 2003 Honda Accord
  By gotit - March 10 - 10:00 am

  This is my first Honda, although weve had Hondas in the family for over 30 yrs. I wanted a bigger car than the one I was driving..looked at the Intrepid & Concorde but afraid of losing the handle of a small car, saw the new Honda Accord and thought what a perfect size car for me. Test drove the Honda and fell in love. Handles like a small car but has the luxury of a large car. Im now sold as a Honda owner forever as long as they stay or get better over the years. Love the sound system, quiet ride, pick- up and go power...everything I just love

• 

  Reliability and Substance - 2016 Honda Civic
  By Bradley Roll - March 10 - 9:33 am

  Picked it up for around 20,500.. absolutely amazing car. Its my first Honda, but not my last.. coming from a Jeep Grand Cherokee, my gas mileage is twice as much per gallon. 42 mpg on the highway with a turbo engine.. I should have always owned Hondas.. civic ex-t definitely turns heads.. love it love it love it