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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  Great reliable car - 1997 Honda Accord
  By Scott - March 12 - 12:53 pm

  Bought this EX-L V6 in 02 with 68k, now has 193k. Other than normal maintenance., it hasnt needed anything. Doesnt use any oil and the v6 is peppy, yet gets good mpg. Disc brakes on all 4 wheels seem to hold up very well. Been through 2 teenage drivers and still survived ( I know they didnt baby it). Plan on keeping it another 100k. Power windows have gotten a little slow, but seems to be a common problem on these cars. Spray silicone once in while does seem to help. Looking for another 97 accord for my next teenager.

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  Great first car! - 1997 Honda Civic
  By KY Civic - March 11 - 8:57 pm

  I got this car for my 16th birthday three years ago with 88k miles, and nearly 30k miles later its still running great. Had to have the axle replaced a while back, for a cost of $800, but thats really been the only problem Ive had. Gas mileage is decent, but could be a little better. Acceleration can be a tad sluggish, but overall okay for a 4 cyl. Couldnt have asked for a better first car.

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  It has survived me so far with 200k+ - 2003 Honda Civic
  By C Read - March 11 - 3:16 pm

  Ive enjoyed driving the car, mileage is great, especially since I drive a lot of miles, but I have had my problems with the car: alternator went at 90k, the trans had a bearing go at 135k (replacement required), paint started peeling at year 4, ECCM (computer) went at 197k, the fabric on the doors started coming off (glue degraded). The engine is still. Though this car hasnt been as worry free as hoped, but with the high mileage accumulated as quick as it was, I would say it has handled as well could be expected with any car, Ill compare my next car when I get one, until then.

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  Love it - 2008 Honda Civic
  By Skie - March 11 - 3:05 pm

  I bought my civic with 15k miles on it and have put almost 30k in one year of ownership. I love the gas mileage I get from it because I drive to school every day and work on weekends neither of which are near my home. This car is by far my favorite out of all of the cars I have ever known and I would highly recommend it to anyone.

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  Interior Plastic Scratches Easily - 2010 Honda Pilot
  By mommyofthree - March 11 - 11:28 am

  Love driving my new 2010 Honda Pilot EX-L 4WD RES. The only negative comment I have is interior plastic is awful. Scratched in so many places already! I have had the car only 1 month. Black plastic on dashboard is chipping and has turned white. Seems as if you touch the plastic is scrapes. Also DVD seems to be rattling tons when not in use.

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  Again a civic - 2009 Honda Civic
  By erik - March 10 - 9:58 pm

  After researching for months and comparing to other carsgot a used Civic 09 with 4500 miles on it 5000 less than a new lx with taxes and fees. This drives a lot better than the 2001 Civic it replaced, lesser noise, first automatic, always drove a stick. The advantage over a stick is lesser rpm on the highway. 2200 rpm with 70 miles cruising. Like the blue backlight of speedometer and armrest with more storage as in old Civic. Good firm seats, drove VW and they have that to, I like that, also in height adjustable. Drove 390 miles with one tank of gas and still a quart in it, so over 450 miles is easy for me. This car has to make a 250.000 miles as my old Civic with less maintenance as was.

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  Good but not up to the hype - 2006 Honda CR-V
  By Former Honda Owner - March 10 - 8:47 am

  We would have enjoyed the car more if Honda owners didnt hype the brand. The paint was a mess from new. All four seat belts hang onto the ground after a year. Rear differential makes car shudder in turns. Transmission clunks from first to second and back again. Uncomfortable seats and fabric. Shudders on acceleration. Very expensive brakes. Takes forever to get in to dealer, they must be fixing somebodys Honda. Having said all that, the car was pretty good. Id consider another but you shouldnt buy the hype. Its a car, they break. Id love to sit down with every person who said, "Buy a Toyota/Honda, youll never have a another problem. Ridiculous thing to say.

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  2008 Accord Rear Brake Issues - 2008 Honda Accord
  By HondaJunk - March 9 - 1:52 pm

  Have enjoyed driving the vehicle until recent quality issue with rear brake pads. At just 15,000 miles, the rear brake pads need replacing. Honda America claims that this is normal for Honda as the Accord has a unique design that shifts the weight of the vehicle to the rear when braking. Thus, 80 - 90% of the braking is done using the rear brakes. Amazing. Has Honda defied the laws of physics?

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  Somewhat disappointed with my Accord - 2009 Honda Accord
  By Lucky 7 Honda Owner - March 9 - 9:41 am

  This is my 7th Honda in over 20 years, and Im the most disappointed with it. The car has some great features, but its becoming clear that Honda cut corners to keep the costs down. Its a good looking car and is roomy. However, Honda service is not great. Spent too much time at the dealer, and they are always suspicious that its my fault rather than manufacturing defects. Im sorry I traded in my 2006 Accord for this one because it was just a better built car without any issues. Honda needs to get back their core basics.

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  Worn out brake pads - 2009 Honda Accord
  By nanc - March 8 - 9:45 pm

  I chose to buy my third Accord because of the reliability of the past two. I was extremely shocked to find that I need rear brake pads after only 16,000 miles. My 2002 Accord did not need brakes until 54,000 miles. My driving habits have not changed, mainly highway, over the years. If I would have known that I would be spending $200 every 15,000 or so miles, I would not have purchased this vehicle. Also, another disappointment with this vehicle is the Blue Tooth and nav. system. The microphone does not pick up the pitches and determines it own thinking of what I am saying. It is truely frustrating and therefore I do not use those luxuries that I spent extra money for. Think Twice!