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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  I LOVE my first Honda! - 2003 Honda Accord
  By MyFirstHonda - April 19 - 2:00 am

  Looking originally at a Civic for reliability and better price and economy. After looking at the over priced Corolla we decided to step up to the Altima. But after driving the Accord we were in love (well my wife was). We were replacing a top of the line Dodge Avenger that had V6, leather, moon, etc. The accord fit the bill, even with the 4 cyl. engine. Plenty of pep even compared the the V6 Avenger, better ride, awesome seats and stereo system.

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  Excellent SUV - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By wendy - April 18 - 5:20 pm

  We took this SUV on a road trip through Yellowstone and the Rockies, excellent gas mileage of 23/28. We never thought we would get such good mileage from a big vehicle. The ride was very smooth and comfortable. According to one of the cons of owning this vehicle is the feeling that one feels to big behind the wheel. I am only 52" and didnt have any problems, I did not feel as though the vehicle was to big to handle. I felt very comfortable driving it. Excellent vehicle!

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  Element Review - 2003 Honda Element
  By Greybeard - April 18 - 2:00 am

  The most fun, all around useful vehicle Ive owned or been around in years. 25mpg at 75-80mph. Travels very well with wife, 2 dogs and luggage. Very short turning radius makes town driving and parking lots go-cart easy. Honda quality and reliability.

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  My 2nd Honda Pilot - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By mgbarker54 - April 17 - 11:50 pm

  Just bought my 2nd Honda Pilot - traded in the 2003 for a 2006. Great car, but the 2003 didnt have all the extras like the moon roof, 6-cd in-dash, etc.

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  Best Car You Can Buy Today - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Ian - April 17 - 5:46 pm

  What a great car. Its a safe, practical 4-door mid-sized sedan with incredible fuel economy. The only time you know its a hybrid is when the engine shuts down at red-lights and at the pump. Its roomy, fun to drive, and of the most cutting-edge technology available for $20k (counting tax credit). Itll teach you to drive all over again. I no longer see how fast I can get somewhere, I see how efficiently I can do it. Sounds goofy, but it is a fun game to play. Dont listen to Consumer Reports when they say the best they could get was 38 mpg. The engine gets better with break- in. My tanks are so far 37.6 (incl. del from Japan), 41.8, 42.1, 44.4 & Im confident itll get better. Go try it!

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  Great Second Car - 2016 Honda Fit
  By Charles Gardner - April 17 - 10:13 am

  It is not a touring sedan is designed for economical operation. I owned a 2012 Fit and this is a very much updated and redesigned model with lots of bells and whistles. It is a great car for the huge cargo space and great gas mileage.

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  mini van - maxi pleasure - 2002 Honda Odyssey
  By drdan - April 17 - 2:00 am

  Not just for the soccer mom but also for the golfing dad. comfort and storage great. Gas mileage in town could be better.All in all a very sweet car!

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  WEe LOVE our Honda CR-V - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By Peter Martin - April 17 - 2:00 am

  I have never had a better vehicle with higher quality in my entire life!

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  Its a honda - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By abused in maine - April 17 - 2:00 am

  This is an excellent minivan. The power and handling are excellent, although it does have a bit of torque steer when accelerating. When comparing features and price with other minivans, the honda was by far the best. Maine pot holes and salt have not hindered our Honda in the first year, nor do I expect it to be hindered in the future. Overall an excellent vehicle.

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  best car i have ever had - 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour
  By schwarzste - April 16 - 1:30 pm

  Had a 2005 accord leather v-6 which was great. Then switched to Subaru legacy to save a few bucks. Subaru was great but small, felt like I was putting the car on like a pair of pants. Decided to go back to Honda for comfort. Saw a great deal on the crosstour lease. drove it and loved it!! 375.00 nothing down with 16k a year lease. Went with 2 WD and cloth to save a few bucks. Could not be happier with the car. Actually too happy I am at 3000 miles after 2 months. Decent gas milage 21 MPH around town, got 27 driving from Philly to NY city a few weeks ago. Comfy and quite plenty of room. Only complaint is the head rest, leans too far forward. they need to fix this.