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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  6th Honda 1st CR-V - 2012 Honda CR-V
  By Sherri Kennedy - September 20 - 2:26 am

  After driving Accords both sedan and coupe for over 20 years, I bought my first CR-V. I am so happy with this vehicle for its overall performance and technology perks. I have the Economy version front wheel drive, which is perfect for a semi-retired educator. It is roomy and comfortable with more cargo room when the back seats are laid down. Ive had on a road trip and short trips. I am very pleased with my purchase.

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  I should have bought one years ago! - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By Jeffrey - September 20 - 2:19 am

  Always go with at least an EX. Worth the price, you can always lease an expensive SUV, but you will never own it.

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  1994 Honda Civic LX 4 Dr Sedan - 1994 Honda Civic
  By rjtoc2 - September 20 - 2:00 am

  I put 170,000 miles on this car before I sold it. Aside from routine maintenance, I replaced the timing belt once, was on my second set of tires, and had to perform a moderate A/C repair ($500). I loved this car and was sad to part with it.

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  - - 1996 Honda Accord
  By TED - September 20 - 2:00 am

  Great car. Owned for a few years, never had a problem.

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  I Love My Ugly Car!!! - 2003 Honda Element
  By Drewfer - September 19 - 10:00 am

  I had a 300M with 160,000 miles on it (I bought it new) and wanted something more practical and fun. We have a Honda Odyssey, and I wanted something with room that I didnt have to worry about messing up the carpets in. I love this car. Its so ugly it crosses back over into cool!!! I can put golf clubs, trash, yard waste, ect. in it, no problem! The doors make it very easy to get people in and out, and the fold-up seats are make the rear a cargo-holding monster!!

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  AWESOME - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By Greg , N.H. - September 19 - 10:00 am

  I bought my wife a Sage 2004 Pilot with the Leather heated package. She was nervous about driving it home because she was not used to an SUV, now I cant get her out of the drivers seat...she is in LOVE!! Great vehicle, smooth ride, comfortable interior, HUGE amount of cargo space Perfect for any family...great job Honda!

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  Happy in my new Odyssey! - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By OdysseyMom - September 19 - 10:00 am

  We just bought a 2003 Honda Odyssey EX. I love...love...love it! Cant find one thing that I am not crazy about. Its comfortable..drives great. I highly recommend this vehicle. We looked at the 2004 Sienna, which I have to say was very nice. The Odyssey just took the cake, for us. Better visability...features were more convienent. Our dealership was wonderful! A+++++++ All around for this Happy Odyssey Family!

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  Veee Tech! - 2001 Honda Accord
  By The OCDetailer - September 19 - 10:00 am

  Ive had my coupe for about a year now, and I like it more as each day goes by. This car performs very well when asked, yet is mild mannered in most driving situations. It still feels very solid and well made despite some minor squeaks and rattles that seem to travel around the interior. The car has been rock solid in terms of reliability. I dont baby the car driving wise, but give it regular mechanical, interior, and exterior maintenance. By the way, if youre looking for some fun, switch off the traction control and go looking for some unexpecting teenage civic (with the 10 in. diameter exhaust pipe) drivers.

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  What a car.. - 2003 Honda Accord
  By cia02740 - September 19 - 10:00 am

  Recently purchases this 2003, what a difference from my 1993 4cyl Accord. Saved lots of money ($6k) by buying this car vs. Maxima. Same car little less hp drives like a BMW. European styling wouldnt ever think Japan built this car if you did not know cars..

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  Quality Car for under 40.000 - 2003 Honda Accord
  By alinki - September 19 - 10:00 am

  This car has it all.