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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  I love my new Honda!! - 2006 Honda Accord
  By Laurie - July 15 - 11:53 pm

  I was very hesitant to purchase a new car after driving my old one for 7 years. It is so nice to get off from work now and get into my wonderful new Honda. I have been very pleased with my purchase.

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  A fun and classy economy car - 2010 Honda Insight
  By Jim L - July 15 - 10:13 pm

  Ive wanted a hybrid for many years, but I didnt think they would be worth the extra expense. I realized that dealers were going to be more flexible due to the economy so I seriously started looking. I looked at a Prius and Civic Hybrid, but both were a bit pricier than I wanted to pay. The Insight seemed like the best value and I really liked the exterior look better too. The fuel economy displays is probably the best distinctive feature of the car and it really helps you save gas. Im still learning, but I am averaging 49 mpg over 8k miles. I use the a/c all the time. The car is extremely quiet under normal conditions, almost too quiet.

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  Fun to Drive - 2004 Honda Element
  By Kidsolly - July 15 - 10:00 am

  Had the car for six months. Love to drive it. Taken it on 2000 mi trip. Averaged 25 mpg. A little noisy @75+ mph but it handled great. A little difficult for adults to climb into the the back seat. Seats are tough on comfort on the longer drives. Visibility is great, tight turning radius is a plus. If you have kids, the rear door can be a hassle since you have to open the front door everytime to let them out. Since its on the small side, it turns and parks anywhere. It has just enough power, most of the time theres just two of us in the car and how fast can you go on LA/Orange Co. freeway? The price and financing were right, Id buy one again!

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  Most fun car we have driven in years - 2004 Honda Civic
  By Beatricec - July 15 - 10:00 am

  This is our 3rd Honda Civic hatchback and we love it. The white dials are easy to see in daylight and and night and the clutch and shift are a delight. A winner.

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  honda element - 2005 Honda Element
  By dan hernandez - July 15 - 8:26 am

  suprising legroom and comfortability. Actually has much more storage area than I thought at first glance. Pick-up can be iffy but holds its own in traffic w/good handling.

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  Review of Civic Coupe Ex 2006 with Navi. - 2006 Honda Civic
  By grishma - July 15 - 7:46 am

  Value for money... Sleek looks...however not the most comfortable car especially for pillion riders. Great road grip and acceleration. Big people should test drive before making decision.

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  2005 odessey - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By phil - July 14 - 10:13 pm

  wonderful van i have not enjoyed driving a family car in such a long time.I acutually do most of the driving and dont get mad in traffic.

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  As has been advertised - 2017 Honda CR V
  By EdK - July 14 - 11:41 am

  After a test drive, we were sold. Compared to Mazda, Toyota, and Nissan, the Honda blew the competition out of the water. Excellent room in the cockpit. Good handling. Comfortable seats. After 1400 miles, average fuel economy is 35 mpg (half highway and half city driving). The best part is my wife (50) and myself (60) both can adjust the seats/mirrors for good comfort.

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  Awesome Car - 1993 Honda Accord
  By Don Parker - July 14 - 2:00 am

  We are the original owners and after 128,000 miles this is by far the best car we have ever owned. We just sold it to a family member and bought a new 2003 Accord. Imagine that!! Being an engineer (read car nut) I have done all preventive maintenance myself and frankly that is all we have needed to do. The car has been extremely reliable. Feels as tight and responsive as when new. Use Mobil1 synthetic, car uses no oil at all.

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  Honda CR-V....Best in class - 2000 Honda CR-V
  By ONYXDJDIANA - July 14 - 2:00 am

  Honda CR-V is rated high for a reason! I test drove an automatic but preferred the manual for power...I own a 5spd and LOVE IT! I researched all the mini SUVs and Honda was rated highest. Now that I own it, I KNOW WHY! It is roomy, fun to drive, reliable, very quiet, and fully functional. Ive used it for DJ equip., distance travel, travel to and from work, etc. (versatile) HIGHLY RECOMMENDED by me. Only complaint: function of locks.