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:

• 

  Road Noise - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Adrian Pineda - December 23 - 4:53 am

  I love Hondas. The best cars for the money. Only compared to Toyotas, but better Looking. Ive owned two prior Hondas, a 04 Acura TSX, and a 06 Civic Si. As much as I love this brand. I hate to admit that they have loud interiors. My TSX and Si were like that but I attributed this to the low profile tires. I had heard this being an issue with all Honda models, and it is an issue with the current Accord.

• 

  Wow, what a car. - 2002 Honda S2000
  By Lucky - December 23 - 3:28 am

  I had been wanting a roadster for sometime to take down the pacific coast highway. I began shopping a little over a month ago and hands down, the s2000 far outweighs the 350Z, Z3, Z4, Audi TT, and any American made convertible. The vTec kicks in and you feel it snap you back in the seat. The performance and reliability are second to none. To top that off, the styling is one off. Few people recognize this car and many ask about it. 240 HP in a 2800 lb car is simply amazing. Simply put, this car is the four wheeled brother of the Honda RR motorcycle series. I will not part with it, and am planning on getting another when I am done with this one. Plus, you can buy the hardtop!

• 

  amieverpleased - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By Disco Don - December 23 - 12:27 am

  I will tell you what I dont like first, while turning the steering wheel I regularly catch the windshield wiper knob and accidentally turn them on, also, the power mirror selector is too small, I would like to see it a tad bit larger. I like the power, comfort, good looks & reliability. My wife dubs the vehicle "Silky" I certainly see why. Gas mileage, a realistic 28 mpg on the road on a trip, down to 13 mpg day in and day out around town, Occasionally I have looked down at the speedometer as I am passing people on the freeway, the other cars are going 80-90, my speedometer reads 110 mph!! It is soooo smooth & silent, unbelievable. I am sure we will keep this vehicle for a long time to come

• 

  Our 6th Honda!! - 2016 Honda Pilot
  By J MILLER - December 22 - 10:36 pm

  We have owned 5 different Hondas in the last 11 years, passing down the older models to our growing children. This Honda Pilot touring AWD is by far the nicest of them. I researched this vehicle for two months before it even came out and has definately been worth the wait. This will be a vehicle that we will keep until it dies! It has everything you would need and more. I still havent said, " I just wish it had_____." I dont think I will. I have the power I love with all of the conveniences, and most importantly, the space I need, wrapped up in a stylish new package.

• 

  Great Value! - 2010 Honda Insight
  By Mtloveskg - December 22 - 10:06 pm

  EPA says 43/40 MPG, I get after 2k miles 45.6 with AC on and NO hypermiling! Economode is on 75% of the time! Fun car to drive, economical and a Honda so you cant go wrong!

• 

  May be best car ever - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By 05odysseyowner - December 22 - 10:00 am

  Excellent power / great gas milage nav and voice commands are great. Widescreen DVD is great for the kids.

• 

  2005 Honda Odyssey Touring with Nav/DVD - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By rwbache - December 22 - 10:00 am

  Its still a new car but it is wonderful to drive. Great performance and unparalleled safety features including the new run flat tires. I strongly recommend this minivan.

• 

  One of the best van in the market - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By Odywoman - December 22 - 10:00 am

  Cannot describe how much I like the van. I have test drive soooo many vans out there, and Odyssey is the best.

• 

  Simple Elegance - 2005 Honda Accord
  By Dave from Baltimore - December 22 - 10:00 am

  Comfortable, elegant and stylish although younger crowd may want more flash. Easily handles highway driving and makes it enjoyable to drive 70 miles daily. Space is great, including trunk, audio controls on steering wheel are easy to use. Storage is convenient. All around a comfortable car at an excellent price for what is offered. I recommend the Accord. Luxury feeling without luxury cost.

• 

  Hwy MPG Overrated for this commuter - 2005 Honda Accord
  By SecondHybrid4Me - December 22 - 8:36 am

  This is my second Honda hybrid. Took my former Civic to nearly 100k miles in just under three years with few problems. Routine oil changes were more difficult on that version with 0 weight 30 not easy to find and quirky steps mechanics have to know... so far with the Accord, its a snap! My only complaint was the premium sticker price and that the fuel efficiency is nowhere close to that advertised. I am mostly drive on the highway and am averaging closer to 30 than 37. I was sold that the enhancements in hybrid technology were supposed to make this one better for increased hwy mileage than in town. Either way, Im all for hybrids and my experience has been good! Go Green!!