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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  Cant Lose With A Honda Civic - 2004 Honda Civic
  By Abraham White - January 8 - 8:36 pm

  The wife and I had our hearts set on a Toyota Corolla. We test drove one, sat down to negotiate the price, the salesman was playing their games so out of spite I told him we were going to go to Honda. We did, and test drove the Civic, out of spite, but fell in love with it. Better handling than Corolla, better stereo system, much more comfortable ride, less road noise, and better overall fit and finish. And best of all to the wife, it was better priced than a comparably equipped Corolla. After all it was Consumer Reports Car of the year in 2003 or 2004 I cant quite recall but you can look it up. Cheers.

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  Four Civic Lessons - 2017 Honda Civic
  By Larry Y. - January 8 - 7:21 am

  We, my wife and I have always drove Hondas. This is our fourth iteration of the Civic. Test drove the EX-T 1.5L Turbo and the one we settled on was the 2.0 EX Sedan. To tell you the truth, not a huge difference in acceleration and performance between the 1.5T and 2.0. Just a 1mpg difference between the two engines. The 2.0 accelerates well from a stop as well as on the freeway and passing maneuvers. Never worried about merging with traffic, CVT performs well and always in the correct ratio when needed. Even in ECO mode, performance is diminished some, but transmission/engine will engage when needed for passing etc. The 7.0" Center Dash Digital Display takes a while to understand. A little slow on input response, but works fine. Cloth interior on center console, and armrests etc. gets soiled very easily and material feels a bit flimsy. Not sure how well it will hold up, time will tell. From our first CVCC, to our 1988, then 2002, to our current 2017. Lesson learned, always stick with an reliable, well engineered car! Wife loves it...oh btw, we purchased the white orchid pearl color, nice...

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  s2000 unbeatable fun at $32,000 - 2002 Honda S2000
  By z2000 - January 8 - 2:00 am

  if you are over 6 2" this would be the only reason not to purchase this vehicle.Give Honda credit-the are putting together a 4 cylinder car that puts out approx 250hp can outperform the Audi TT-stay with the Boxter-and the z3 and Z4-all for much less$-The car takes some used to because this baby is just starting to warm up at 6to 7000 rpm where most others are fading

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  Always stick with a Honda! - 1996 Honda Accord
  By R. W. - January 8 - 2:00 am

  Recieved this car recently as my first car, and have had this car in my family for years, and I love it! You can never go wrong with a Honda! Performance is still up-to-par with most modern cars. Take my advice, BUY A HONDA!!

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  CRV Review - 1999 Honda CR-V
  By rvoigt - January 8 - 2:00 am

  This has been a very efficient and reliable vehicle. I would buy another one in the future.

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  Excellent - 1994 Honda Passport
  By Edemcord - January 7 - 2:00 am

  Ever since i baught this vehicle it is perfect drives excellent <> no complain but deffinately need a cup holder

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  Wonderful Little Car - 1990 Honda Civic
  By Country Belle - January 7 - 2:00 am

  My husband and I bought our Honda Civic brand new in 1990 when our kids were small. It was great to drive around town and I loved the way that I could squeeze into small spaces. We took trips from Georgia to Ohio in it and never had no problems. We have had to have minor repairs on the car, but nothing real serious. Even though the inside of the car doesnt look so good anymore, it stills runs great. My husband drives it to work as it is so good on gas mileage. My daughter which is now 16 years old would love to have and drive it, but unfortunately she does not know how to drive a stick shift yet. Who knows, she may get it when she learns.

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  Earths New Element - 2003 Honda Element
  By terry babbitt - January 6 - 10:00 am

  This is exactly what I was looking for in a new vehicle to replace my big SUV gas guzzler. It has more room inside than my Trooper, it handles like an Accord, carries loads like a big pick- up, gets good mileage, and best of all, its a Honda quality product. I cant tell you how many times I have had to show the inside of the Element to strangers in the mall parking lot. I should get a commision from Honda!!

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  Elemental driving - 2003 Honda Element
  By ezkapp - January 6 - 10:00 am

  Comfort and flexibility are the hallmarks. Funky styling like an WWI French ambulance and a solid feel. Great interior room, especially rear seats if only two, and a decent sound system.

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  Couldnt have done better - 1999 Honda Accord
  By Florida Hockey Fan - January 6 - 10:00 am

  For anyone looking for a sporty, stylish, comfortable, affordable, reliable car, this is the one for you. Its got it all. After driving the 4- dr. Accords I came upon the coupe and was hooked. This car is in immaculate shape, the engine purrs like a kitten, and has been a joy to drive. Hugs the road, feels like its got some weight behind it without feeling sluggish. My friends and family keep going back to Honda and now I understand why.