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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  Back to the Future - 2009 Honda Fit
  By Birdbrain - November 21 - 9:53 pm

  I bought my 2009 Fit Sport 5-speed manual in January 2009, and I am really happy with my purchase despite some suggested improvements (see below). In some ways the Fit seems like the reincarnation of my 1980 Civic 1500 wagon, but with lots of evolutionary improvements. I also considered the Mazda 3 hatchback and the Suzuki SX4 Crossover, but the FitÂ’s combination of styling, roominess, and economy was impossible to beat.

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  Excellent Vehicle for the price - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By I love the Hondas - November 21 - 10:00 am

  This is my third honda purchase. I first bought a honda civic, then a honda accord, and now a honda cr-v. I wanted a suv without the extreme price and that is what I have with the CRV. The only suggestion I have is the center head rest needs to be removed because it blocks the rear view. However, the gas mileage is good, the vehicle is very comfortable and fun to drive, and overall I feel it is a good vehicle.

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  honda - 2004 Honda Civic
  By basehead93955 - November 21 - 10:00 am

  i love my new honda civic ex 2004 its the best thing in the road and plus i love it its great for my familt bacause theres only 4 members in my family i love my 2004 civi ex!

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  Awesome Car - 2004 Honda Civic
  By BVARG04 - November 21 - 10:00 am

  I have enjoyed driving this car. It runs well.

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  Terrific First Impression - 2008 Honda Accord
  By fosterphx - November 21 - 3:53 am

  Excellent redesign, a leading edge product in this price range. Ride quality is excellent and steering is precise. 5 speed transmission much improved compared to my 02 Accord. Wind and road noise well controlled. The exterior design is attractive and is a pleasant departure from previous conservative versions. So far my satisfaction is 10/10

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  Great mid-sized truck - 2017 Honda Ridgeline
  By Michael Crebbin - November 21 - 3:11 am

  Drives like a great car, but is still a truck.

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  Best Honda in the World - 1990 Honda Civic
  By El Marero - November 21 - 2:00 am

  I think is the best car i have ever got nice strong engine. Fule economy. its just the best

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  Great Car to Drive for City only - 2010 Honda Insight
  By Brian - November 20 - 5:06 am

  This is a great car to drive, for city driving only. I am not so sure, I would not use this car to drive on the highway for great distances. This car would work in big cities around the USA, where traffic is really bad - the auto stop option, is far the best feature in this car. I am just dont understand why, the big 3 never put that in there cars to begin with. I think, if the big 3 had put the auto stop in all of there cars, they would not be in financial ruin right now, and there world not be global warming crisis. There is NO REASON WHY, cars need to burn gas at any stop light or traffic congestion points while polluting the air we breath.

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  wow - 2007 Honda Fit
  By aj martinez - November 19 - 3:13 pm

  110% satisfaction! I am averaging 42.3 mpg (manual shift) and cruising at 80 mph. When I need to pass, it hits 90+ as quick as a cat. Thank you!!!!!

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  I love this car! - 2004 Honda Element
  By baygirl - November 19 - 12:40 pm

  Except for ease of entry into the backseat area, the car is perfect. But my parents have trouble getting in the back area because the floor is so high. Other than that, no complaints! Great car!