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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  Happy Honda Owner - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By mic161 - November 12 - 9:19 pm

  tows two motorcycles on back w\21ft boat in-tow, worked for honda motorcycles, 25 years. and they build their vehicles as their motorcycles good QC

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  4 cylinder i-vtec Accord (Leather) - 2005 Honda Accord
  By scooter - November 12 - 9:10 pm

  After the first 500 miles I noticed a squeak in the dashboard. Im now at 1500 miles and the noise has ceased for about 450 miles. The only other negative thing with the 4 cylinder is its slightly (and I mean slightly) rough warming up in the morning. After its warm though its silky smooth. There was the Nissan Maximas 6 cylinders tradeoff for the 4 cylinder Accord.(We all know Gas Prices are outrageous). But so far Im very pleased.

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  Civic Si (K20a3) - 2002 Honda Civic
  By 93Octane - November 12 - 6:48 pm

  People may bash it for its styling, but over all the civic si is a great car. Its very comfortable, has a very good sound system, does great gas mileage (if you drive it nice) and it was a extremely powerful heater! Mine is the "mustard" gold color and man does it turn some heads. People think that the "Dash Shifter" is ridiculous but it is honestly very comfortable to use when driving. Its got more than enough power for you to have fun with. Although it doesnt have "True Vtec" its i-vtec design is very good giving the car good power in all gears. No need to down-shift from 5th on the highway to pass someone, it still pulls like a train giving you easily enough power to pass something.

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  Honda CRZ Navi - 2016 Honda CR-Z
  By Warren Bernau - November 12 - 3:04 pm

  Other than average acceleration, a quality Honda product.

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  Its a beautiful life - 1999 Honda Civic
  By Sidriver - November 12 - 2:00 am

  This car is very fun to drive and the motor can handle high revs much better than most cars. I put an aem cold air intake and once you hit 5500 rpms the vtec is deafining (its the most unbelievable thrill especially going through tunnels where it echoes). Very fast for 1.6 liters, handling is wonderful, and performance overall is unbeatable when you think about the gas mileage you get and the price of the car. and after 3 years, they are still selling for more than $14000, they really hold their value

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  Internet Sales Are the WAY! - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By Jay W - November 12 - 2:00 am

  Great car, but difficult to buy, until we found the internet department of the place we went... got in and out within 2 days... we did not haggle at all... and were given a great price.... Anyhow... great car for those looking for the best all-around mini-ute... handles great... engine smooth... ride is firm, but not jarring... Best value for the money in sport-utes though!

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  My Dream Car! - 2002 Honda Accord
  By Joy L - November 12 - 2:00 am

  Ive always wanted a black Honda Accord Coupe and Ive finally got it! My 2002 SE has a smooth and flawless ride that is synonymous with Honda. The woodgrain accents are sleek and add a very elegant appearance to the vehicle. The exterior paint has a high gloss and the alloy wheels give it an even sportier look.

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  Learning to Love My EX - 2005 Honda Civic
  By mustache - November 11 - 10:20 pm

  Just got my new 2005 EX sedan this weekend. Had to get rid of my gas guzzler as I drive 45 miles to work. I like the car so far. Road noise is a bit excessive. But the car is tight and fun to drive. Build quality is great as I have not found a single defect. I need to drive this car about 200K miles to get my money out of it. So it better last! I live on a dirt road so we will see if it holds up.

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  Very good handling and stylish interior - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By Subhash - November 11 - 7:13 pm

  I chose CRV over its competition (including but not limited to RAV4) due to: 1. Exceptional handling - highly stable at high speeds, little/no body roll on curves and turnings. As a result, feels exceptionally great and fun to drive. 2. comfortable and stylish interior - Good dash features (digital fuel and mpg indicators), drop-down center console, elevated and adjustable rear seating with good legroom making long drives very comfortable. 3. Stylish exterior - looks great from all views. Spare tyre hidden underneath cargo. 4. Good resale value due to its high demand. My positive opinions havent changed after driving 3500 miles (under wide range of conditions). I get 21-22 mpg in city.

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  good car for the money - 2002 Honda Civic
  By pat - November 11 - 3:38 pm

  This car is a perfect station car. Good fuel , good reliability, good comfort.The one bad thing is I do not feel safe in this car , because it is so small.I know it got great crash tests but I still dont feel safe.