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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  We love our Pilot! - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By anne - July 20 - 1:06 am

  As a tall family of four, the pilot is roomy and comfortable with plenty of seating for friends. Drives great, looks better in 06, we love it.

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  2002 Honda CR-V - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By dogbite - July 19 - 9:24 pm

  Great vehicle, no problems, will probably buy another.

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  28.3 MPG - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By Frank Baker - July 19 - 4:24 pm

  My wife and I bought this car and have put 2000 miles on it in one month, we love it so far. It is comfortable, and runs very nice. Our speed was around 75 mph most of the time, we averaged 28.3 MPG. We have noticed it has a blind spot on the drivers side. I would like to thank Jay Wolf Honda for selling us this car.

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  Surprisingly Good! - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By Lookingforgoodbuy - July 19 - 9:56 am

  Had the car over a month and its been great. I have a S2000, my son have an Accord and my wife had a 1999 Mustang GT Convertible. We were looking for a Lexus GS to replace her Mustang until we looked at the CRV. The lack of power is way over blown unless youre drag racing. I think a lot of the critic comes from the high expectation of this being an Honda. Love the ride and the dash blue light background.

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  Great appliance - 2006 Honda Element
  By iggyst00ge - July 19 - 9:31 am

  My Element is the definition of the car-as-appliance. Its an unbelievably functional car that has been the perfect toddler and dog transportation for our family. Not as awkward as an SUV, rides like a top-heavy Civic, more interior space per passenger than anything other than a bus, decent MPG (around 23), room to carry bigger cargo, the interior is plastic, but its solid and takes a beating. With the AWD its also great in the snow. Think of it as a downsized van with some nice creature comforts thrown in. Yes, its a little underpowered, and yes it can blow around on windy days. The lack of a fifth seat is an inconvenience, but it does everything else so well, I forgive Honda.

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  LONG ISLAND , NY. DRIVER... - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By RALPH J RONGA - July 19 - 6:56 am

  I previously owned the 2000 CR-V SE, and this current 2005 model I find to be a very great improvement over the 2000 year model. The interior is much quieter. I find the horsepower jump of 17 more horses to have made a significant improvement in acceleration from dead stop and demand for acceleration on the road at speed. I like the outside shape and the color I chose (pewter) actually more of a grey color. I enjoy the airbags all around the vehicle (standard and side curtains) and the vehicle ride has a more solid feel than the 2000. The handling is very tight and responsive. All in all I actually love this vehicle.Only time will tell the true story. Have about 2000 miles.

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  sues review - 2006 Honda Accord
  By suewyo - July 19 - 1:33 am

  I love this car its pretty zippy for a 4 cylinder. Its a blast to drive. Great gas mileage in town.

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  Stick with what works - 2002 Honda Accord
  By Jay - July 18 - 11:36 pm

  Just purchased our second accord after our 91 DX had to be put to rest due to my conscious of not running over a cat. It was just shy of the 200k mark and would have gone way past that if not for the recent mishap. Although I have only 50 miles on the new accord LX V6 it already shows signs of a vehicle that will last us another 10 years. For the price you cant go wrong with this vehicle. For the price, go with the Accord.

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  2005 Honda LX - 2005 Honda Civic
  By Rhonda - July 18 - 1:53 pm

  Vehicle is excellent on gas compared to old suburban I was driving. Would not consider for my college bound daughter though. Was disappointed to find out that the Civic had no daytime running lights(available on Canadian models though?) nor do the doors lock automatically upon driving vehicle. During this time and age you almost consider this to be part of the package, Id rather get running lights or auto door locks over mud flaps...or pin striping

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  Very nice car - 2006 Honda Civic
  By ww874 - July 18 - 11:20 am

  Overall Im very happy with my honda. I still kept my pickup but Im enjoying the monthly $150 Im getting in fuel savings.