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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  It all works great. - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By KipK - July 6 - 8:09 am

  We bought the 2003 CR-V 4WD auto in June of 2003, replacing my wifes 1995 Maxima. She loves to shop yard/garage sales on the weekends. The CR-V is perfect for that. The CR-V is more fun to drive "around town" than my 2003 Pilot. After nearly 2 years of ownership, we took a road trip and arrived as refreshed as we would have in our Pilot. At 24K miles the reliability has been great. No problems except the power port fuse blowing twice when she charges her cell phone. She averages 22 town and 27 highway. I avg 2-3 mpg better for both. More than ample power around town and adiquate power on the road, most of the time. However, passing above 65 is a bit slow!

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  125k and still enjoying - 2000 Honda S2000
  By Andy - July 6 - 7:46 am

  My children are standing in line waiting for me to tire of my S2000. They all think they will be the beneficiary of my mid life crisis automobile. With over 125000 miles Im still enjoying every moment and every back road we fly down. Oil changes and a security issue with my key starter system have been the only service related issues I have encountered. With retirement looming, my S2000 will even bring additional enjoyment as my wife and I hit the road to visit our grandchildren. The only regret I have is that my grandchildren are not old enough to ride in the front seat. Over regulation of safety concerns prohibits their ability to join me in experiencing the joy of the open road.

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  Honda Element - 2003 Honda Element
  By resumepro - July 6 - 7:42 am

  I love it. As a middle aged boater /fisherman/family man(2 kids) it gives me everything I need. My 16 year old is chomping at the bit to get it when she graduates high school. At the price I paid, it is unbeatable for value.

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  Jackson Racing supercharged SI - 2004 Honda Civic
  By Jong - July 6 - 2:18 am

  My Si has has a supercharger, headers, cold air intake and catback exhaust. It makes about 210ish HP and 150ish torque. Its have plenty of speed and a lot of fun to drive. I still maintain 20-23 local and 25-30 highway. I dont like the stock body much but it looks sharp with the HFP package

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  I love it! - 2000 Honda Passport
  By Kathi - July 5 - 11:07 pm

  Bought the car new and have driven it over 150,000 miles with very little trouble. Always starts. Was never stranded. Four wheel drive is very good. I am replacing it soon, but have enjoyed it for over six years.

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  Price bargain is a challenge. - 2017 Honda Pilot
  By H Choi - July 5 - 5:48 pm

  Request quotes from multiple dealers to ensure the lowest prices.

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  AC needs to be upsized for hot climates! - 2016 Honda Odyssey
  By Meredith Smith - July 5 - 5:10 pm

  I love this van in many ways but am VERY disappointed with the AC system. I live in Phoenix and it takes at least 20 minutes to cool the cabin temp down to 75 when its 100 degrees or more outside (happens all summer here). I only ever take short in town trips that are usually less than 10 minutes. Anyway, Im devastated about it but serves me right for just assuming Id love it because its a Honda Odyssey. I recommend an extended test drive before you buy to be sure youre happy with it! UPDATE - Tempe Honda here in Arizona has been wonderful in helping me to love my new van. First, they evacuated and recharged the AC system since I purchased a vehicle that had been on the lot a long time. That improved it somewhat. Second, they offered to swap for a white van (we purchased the beautiful scarlet pearl), but after a test drive we decided it wasnt that different and my family prefers the red. I asked if theyd throw in the custom fit sun screen for the windshield and they did. It keeps the dash much cooler when Im shopping and makes the cabin temp lower after a few hours compared to leaving it exposed under our intense sun. Id recommend getting the custom fit shade from Honda when you purchase your van. Makes a huge difference on that large dash!

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  Cargo Khaki - 2005 Honda Element
  By Paul Frichtl - July 5 - 1:10 pm

  Ive had my "E" for a little more than a week and have put over 500 miles on it - and love it! I bought it as our crossover car and my daily driver. I drive in DC traffic and have found that having a 5 spd manual a plus - especially with four cylinder engine.

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  Nice suv - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By kayhuna - July 5 - 11:34 am

  We enjoy our CRV. It has two major problems for us that may not bother anyone else. The center casino should be replace with a true console not a tray like it has now. Honda needs to quite the road noise. I did a lot of undercoating but I may sell the vehicle because of the road noise. I have had not one single problem otherwise.

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  Oddy touring..just a great van - 2007 Honda Odyssey
  By rob - July 5 - 9:56 am

  Looked long and hard and having owned a 2001 ODY for past seven years we got our fifth Honda product ,a 2007 ODY Touring. We drove Chrysler T & C(top of line), 2008, Sienna 2008(T O L), Hyundai Entourage 2007 (Limited/Ultimate Pkge). Entourage would have been second choice but it couldnt match Hondas tight turning. The 2007 Honda reliability and fit and finish is still up to high standards. Handling is superb. Our old ODY was a really great reliable, inexpensive car to operate. I assume the 2007 will be the same. We are just "Honda " people. If you are one youll know whats special about these vans