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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  2nd Honda, no stopping in sight - 2004 Honda Civic
  By flwr6pwr9 - September 1 - 10:00 am

  My first Honda was a 5speed CRX, which I bought used and owned for 12 years. Had I not had to stop driving stick shift Id still be driving it. Unfortunately, I had to give up a lifetime of little sports cars and grinding gears, so I found the next best thing--the CIVIC EX Coupe. What a fantastic car. I still havent used all of the bells and whistles, but when it came down to having a car with bells and whistles or a barebones Accord, Id pick the former. I dont know that Ill ever own a car other than a Honda again!

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  Great Car - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Dave - September 1 - 9:53 am

  Have own the Accord for 9 months and I have put approx. 18,000 trouble free miles on so far. No squeaks, no rattles and fablous drive train (4 cyclinder 5 manual). All the power and performance I need and gas mileage is pretty good. Sporty handling as well.

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  the best - 1995 Honda Prelude
  By chris harris - September 1 - 2:00 am

  i have had nothing wrong with the car and it is the nices thing on the raid

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  Great car - 1992 Honda Accord
  By Hondanut - September 1 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car new and have had little trouble other than maintenance. Currently 138K. For those who question the firm shift--the auto transmission shifts firmly but this is why it far outlasts any smoother shifting GM transmission. Smooth shifting comes from slipping clutches which accelerates wear. Firm shifts allow transmission life of 200M or more. Very durable, reliable car.

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  Bang for your buck - 2008 Honda Civic
  By LMULion - August 31 - 2:53 pm

  My ratings are based on comparing the Civic to other vehicles in its price range and this car really has the competition beat. Voice nav, play any digital media through aux, plenty of torque to get around LA traffic, no parking spot is too small and I get 28 mpg even though Im always punching the gas. My previous car was a 98 BMW 540i with lots of power and surprisingly this car speeds up well considering its engine size. Combine all that with low maintenance costs ($40 for oil change, no prob) and a great warranty and this car leaves Nissan, Toyota and Mini in the dust.

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  A Honda At Last, met expectations? - 2005 Honda Element
  By Another LT Cust? - August 31 - 11:53 am

  Way back in 75, I wanted to purchase a Honda Civic , for its fuel economy, features, and efficiency... well 30 years later, after research, etc, I purchased a Honda Element. It exceeded my expectations in these areas. IT IS WHAT IT IS: (1)The power of acceleration exceeded my expectations. (2)Great functionallity- minimal wheel overhang, (3) complements my Jeep Wranger as a "luxury version", (4)I know what great "Finish" is. I have had several cars that had great "fit", but now great "finish". (5) Great room, (6) seat support like a my BMW- Fun to drive and capmp with- you better believe it!!!

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  insight rocks! - 2000 Honda Insight
  By JL1595 - August 31 - 2:00 am

  Fun to drive - especially past the gas station! Surprisingly responsive. A technology marvel. It fits two full size adults and two golf bags -- no problems.

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  Great Value - 2016 Honda Civic
  By Kevin Flanagan - August 31 - 1:42 am

  For the price its a great deal. the EX doesnt come with nav, but thats a good thing. Android Auto/Apple Car Play are great features, all cars should have them.

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  great gas mileage - 1998 Honda Civic
  By clint - August 31 - 1:33 am

  I have owned my 98 civic hx since I purchased in in 98 and just love it. I was surprised by the peppy motor when I test drove it and am still surprised by the power it has. I enjoy getting 38 MPG in the city and even more on the freeway. I have had no reliability issues, nothing outside of routine maintenance. What do you expect from Honda. I recommend buying a civic if you are in the market.

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  Pre-Used 2015 Honda Accord - 2015 Honda Accord
  By Allie - August 30 - 10:55 pm