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 "MYLES!" - 2016 Honda Civic
  By A Greenberg - December 8 - 4:17 pm

  this one is a keeper! I dont intend to give this one up or let my kids drive it. I can see myself loving it until one of us dies. I named it Myles, as I feel as though I have a personal relationship with "him".

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  Great Car for the money! - 2005 Honda Accord
  By R S. Scott - December 8 - 3:50 pm

  This is my 3rd Honda Accord I previously had 1994 EXL and a 2001 EXL...I had to save money so I went with the 2005 LX 5 Speed, and had to have it ordered, as there are very few 5 speed LX. I would like to see interior color choices increased. I would like to see a silver car, with grey (leather) and grey interior offered. If honda does not offer that, they are going to loose a faithful Honda customer to Toyota, as you can custom select your leather choice! Honda has also stepped back from the 2001 to the 2005 in the interior of the car. I was not pleased with the hand rest on the 2005. Also on the EXL they do not have leather trim in the back! The preformance of the 2005 is GREAT!!!

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  Best Civic sedan I have owned - 2014 Honda Civic
  By Fran - December 8 - 5:36 am

  Reliable, safe and fun to drive.

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  Just a minor issue.... - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Chris - December 8 - 2:56 am

  This is my 5th Accord in 22 years of driving and I have to say, I am very impressed. Having had to give up my 99 Accord due to very high mileage (170K+), this Accord was a bit of a change. Overall, I do not regret this purchase. The only minor issue is a glich with the headlights/fog lights while the air is on. When the compressor cycles on, the lights "blink" or dim very quickly. It reminds me of when your air unit or fridge comes on at home. It does not diminish the performance of the car, it is just annoying. I contacted the dealer and they said it was something that was not fixable and that they would report it to Honda Corporate. Lets hope they come up with a fix.

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  Car keeps on going - 1992 Honda Civic
  By rvirk - December 8 - 2:00 am

  Just with very minimum maintenence (oil changes), this car has lasted me 12 years and going strong at 160K miles. I have a Mercedes, BMW, and Hyndai. But Honda Civic is the best value Period.

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  2001 Honda Prelude SE - 2001 Honda Prelude
  By DriverEd - December 8 - 2:00 am

  Car handles great on stock wheels/tires and stock suspension. Only complaint is I shouldve gotten the 5-spd. The automatic just does not do this engine justice.

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  Love my Civic Hybrid - 2006 Honda Civic
  By mg - December 7 - 7:40 pm

  I am breaking in and drive all city miles. I am averaging 42 MPG. I do not have to take my eyes off the road to see the large split digital speedometer. The leg/head room is great. The telescoping steering wheel gives even more room. Roomy for its size. Climate control is a plus. Backing up and parking is challenging because the aerodynamic design makes it impossible to see the front and back of the car. I would like to see backup and front cameras. The high windshield wipers are also obscuring the front bumper view. The drive/ride is great and the car is fun to drive. It hugs the road. Safety is a great plus as well. Many handy compartments. Trunk is nice height for unloading groceries.

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  Most Reliable Vehicle Ive Owned - 1995 Honda Odyssey
  By Ktoes - December 7 - 2:00 am

  I leased this Odyssey in 12/95, then purchased it. It now has 118,000 miles and the car has been trouble free. The only problem was the muffler that fell off right after the warranty ended, but Honda replaced it free of charge. My wife loves this car & does not want to trade for a newer one! I have owned 5 Hondas and all of them have been reliable & care free. The interior has held up exceptionally well and the motor is still strong. I will get a new CR-V when my wife decides to give it up...

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  S2k03 - 2003 Honda S2000
  By Redline9000 - December 7 - 2:00 am

  Im a former racer with NASCAR,ARCA,SCCAa and this car is almost track ready. Good Power in all 6 gears and really does the VTECH growl about 6500 rpm. Get it,Drive it & Youll keep it!!

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  Doesnt Get Any Better! - 2004 Honda S2000
  By carliker2 - December 7 - 2:00 am

  I had no suprises with this vehicle. It met every expectation!