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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  Nice Minivan - 2007 Honda Odyssey
  By Baltimore - August 24 - 10:30 am

  Except for the drivers armrest, its a fairly comfortable car, and we really like it, but it could be better. I get the feeling Honda tried to save costs at the expense of consumers comfort and convenience. Honda took out the revolving tray in the floor space and the adjustable armrests which were features in the 2006 Honda EX. The drivers armrest is not very good. For the exterior, they should have racks with the roof rails.

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  Sound Buy - 2005 Honda Accord
  By Dean - August 24 - 12:43 am

  This is the third Honda Accord I have owned. I find the car to be very well built and reliable. Perhaps the auto could be a little higher off the ground to enable more view. Also I feel the head lights should have a sensor and please put heated seats in the rear.

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  quirky looks, versatile vehicle - 2005 Honda Element
  By Maria - August 23 - 5:45 pm

  Very fun to drive. Still a head turner. More interior room than my Nissan minivan, but shorter and easier to park. No mechanical problems to date. My 1st Honda, very impressed. Very solid, super leg and head room, only seats 4 though. I can haul just about anything and the interior floor matting is wonderful - I never want carpet again. Great for dog, crates and plants. No problem with the tall stance, the wind does not buffet it on the highway. The 5 speed manual transmission is a joy. Great sound, like the power outlets. Love the location of the shifter. Fun, fun, fun!!!

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  Little Green Machine - 1995 Honda Civic
  By Crash - August 23 - 2:16 pm

  I bought this car new and have loved it ever since. I have owned other vehicles during this time, but my little green machine never failed me in 11 yrs. Two nights ago, I was driving home and someone hit me head on. The crumple zones worked like they are supposed to and the airbags kept me from being injured. I always told my husband I would keep this car until the body rotted off - but it wasnt happening. The officers and tow truck drivers all commented on how good a condition the car was in (except for the now smashed front.) It had 161,000 miles on it and I finally just did the belts a few months ago. I am going to miss this car more than the Mustang I traded it for....

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  Concur with most reviews - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By godzilabob - August 23 - 1:42 pm

  First and foremost, let me say, I love this car. It handles waaaay better than my 2004 Tacoma xtended cab. Gets the same or slightly better MPG. Has TONS more space in front and back (but the bed is a foot shorter!) The trunk and tailgate feature ROCK as does the rear window feature! But as far as CONS: They are all SMALL in comparison to the PROS. The non- automatic lights...hard to reach radio...ugly big silver door handles...and non extending steering column...the scratchable bed liner...all are minor, but they are notable... Other than that, the rig is great!!!

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  Love this car - 2009 Honda Accord
  By BMC - August 23 - 7:40 am

  I tested a lot of cars before I drove this one on a whim. I LOVE THIS CAR!!! It has great styling and awesome handling. I have the 6-speed manual and there is always plenty of power no matter what gear you are in. The car flies and is rock steady no matter what the speed. Everything seems well thought out. I am usually someone who gets a new car every 3 years, I have a feeling this one is a keeper.

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  Very Satisfied - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By minnpilot - August 23 - 7:30 am

  Was all set to buy a new AWD Sienna because we were very satisfied with our 2000 which had 100K trouble free miles. Before we purchased we decided to go to the Honda dealer to look at an Odyssey. Liked the Odyssey, but living in Minnesota really wanted awd also. I knew about the Pilot, but the exterior appearance never did anything for me. Our sales person encouraged us to take it for a drive and just fell in love with it. Plenty of room for our two boys and the visibility is great. Power delivery is extremely smooth and powerful. Seamless shifting from the 5 speed auto. We are very satisfied with the ride and handling. Bottom line...if we were to do it again wed still buy the Pilot.

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  Honda Insight is great - 2002 Honda Insight
  By dshirley - August 23 - 12:09 am

  I love my Insight. 50 to over 60 mpg, great looks (its red) and can park in tiny spaces. Plenty of cargo capacity, too.

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  Noob to S2000 - 2006 Honda S2000
  By Virtue - August 22 - 4:22 pm

  Purchased three days ago and only driven it once just because Im very busy at work - feels like I have to sign up for a race driving course, Im still afraid to take it out, I use a commuter car until I feel comfortable driving it. This being my first brand new/Honda/roadster I am biased, I love it over my sisters EVO.

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  Good Car - 1998 Honda Civic
  By Josh - August 22 - 12:50 pm

  Ive owned my civic for about 3 years now, and so far its been very reliable. Only problems have been the exhuast tends to rust easily especially after salty winters. Though even with upgraded engine components still feels like it lacks power. But absolutely no major issues for 3 years of driving it everyday. Definitely recommend the manual transmission as it is peppy, but car is still very slow. Looks good but dents very easily. Easy to find spare parts for this car also.