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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  Repeat Honda Owner - 2004 Honda Civic
  By repeathondaowner - October 19 - 2:00 am

  I am a repeat Civic owner, having had a 89 CRX, 92 Acura Integra LS, 95 Civic Coupe EX. Seven trouble free years later needed a new car. I was blown away with the improvements in the Civic. I test drove the Accord Coupe to move upmarket. However I didnt feel there is a big exists anymore. I found the Civic had the best combination of sportiness, clean design, and comfort and most important value in this segment.

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  great - 2003 Honda Accord
  By mersedh - October 19 - 2:00 am

  the most beautiful and powerful car

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  3rd Honda, no regrets - 2003 Honda Accord
  By 3 time Accord Owner - October 19 - 2:00 am

  I have owned a LX, EX and now an EXV6, which has been worth every penny. The traction control has been the most satisfying improvement, which in tandem with the seamless 5spd automatic tames the V6 in snowy weather. Overall the car is a dream to drive, plenty of power, excellent sound system, quiet and an Accord with heated seats has been great. Even the leather quality is better than previous models.

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  Honda did a great job on this car! - 2004 Honda Accord
  By New Honda Owner - October 19 - 2:00 am

  I have now owned the car for a week and have put almost 800 miles on it. The only problem I had is a slight vibration from one of the rear speakers when I play loud, bassy music, but imagine the dealership will cover that under warranty. This car is much sprotier and faster than I imagined it would be. Handles the corners like a much sportier car and can be driven for hours without any driver fatigue. You can see, hear and feel the excellent engineering that went into this car. i would recommend it to anybody.

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  Cant go wrong with this car - 2005 Honda Accord
  By Gerg - October 18 - 2:06 pm

  The car is an excellent choice for a modern, well appointed sedan. The styling is OK and it grows on you in time. The interior is the best quality of the car. The performance is more than adequate with the 5 speed auto trans. The included features make one wonder "why would I buy a BMW". Reliability will have to be determined however there are no initial problems after two months of operation. Fuel mileage is high twenties with the daily commute of mostly highway driving. One concern is engine clatter for the first couple of miles when the engine is cold, which the Dealer states is normal.

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  Saved My Life - 2007 Honda Pilot
  By Christy - October 18 - 11:06 am

  I was struck last week by a driver running a red light. My Pilot flipped and landed on the roof. I was fine, and everyone says its a miracle that Im alive. The car did EXACTLY what it was supposed to do and saved my life. Besides Hondas well-known reliability, the safety of this vehicle is unparalleled. Since it was a total loss, Ill be buying another!

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  Good Car but Not Sure about Gas Mileage - 2008 Honda Civic
  By Marie - October 18 - 3:56 am

  I got a Honda Civic as my second car, got my first when I was 16 and it was a Sunfire with AMAZING gas mileage but it was old and needed a new car. I liked the Civic for all its features but mostly the gas mileage but after 800 miles and 3 tanks later I am only getting 24.5 miles per gallon and dont understand why. I wanted 29 at least like it said! So Im not happy but wondering if maybe there is a reason and if someone can tell me why I would very much appreciate it! Im just a young girl who thought she did her research well. But other than that its a GREAT car!

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  Love love love! - 2016 Honda Pilot
  By Lori - October 18 - 2:26 am

  It took me several weeks of dealing with car dealerships until I found exactly what I wanted (color, trim). Ive owned it for about a month and Im very impressed with the highway and city mpg. We drove on our first long trip and we were averaging 28mpg.

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  Amazing - 2003 Honda S2000
  By sloppyjoe4@aol.com - October 18 - 2:00 am

  In the short time that i have had the priveledge to drive this car i have nothing but great things to say about it. Its super to drive on highway, or city roads, top up, or top down.

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  S2000 is the car for soo many reasons. - 2002 Honda S2000
  By SaxJonz - October 18 - 2:00 am

  I love this car. Not very practical for a daily driver but what a blast to drive! This car drives so much better than a Z3 M6 handling, acceleration, shifting, looks. People always stare when they see this car. Even Porsche owners look and feel a twinge of regret.