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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  Everything You Need for the Price - 2009 Honda Civic
  By dkurtz42 - March 17 - 1:36 pm

  I selected the LX-S based on the options that comes standard on it as opposed to the LX and even some options not on the EX (leather-wrapped steering wheel). I wanted a spoiler, alloy wheels, leather-wrapped steering wheel and Automatic Transmission in a 4 door. The LX-S was tailor made for me. I originally was looking at a Fit based on price, but the LX-S was quoted lower than the Fit. I couldnt believe it. Several hundred below Edmunds TMV. Car feels very solid. Not very powerful, but Im looking for fuel economy and couldnt care less about power. Backseat is large enough for my 2 car seats. Trunk is adequate. Based on price + mpg + reliability Im looking forward to racking up the miles.

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  horrible engine - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Lee Malone - March 17 - 11:30 am

  looking at having a 3rd engine installed with only 24,000 miles and they say my warranty wont cover it.

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  Wouldnt purchase another one - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By Henry - March 17 - 11:16 am

  First honda purchased, engine misses out, was told by dealership the missing out is OK, something the CRV engine does. Gas mileage is average 22 miles per gallon. Just not pleased with the car.

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  Wonderful Car to Own - 1999 Honda CR-V
  By jan - March 17 - 7:52 am

  Ive owned the CRV since 5/99 and have over 100,000 miles on it. There have been no major breakdowns or flaws. Some things are now needing to be replaced: the catalytic converter is one. The heating system/radiator needs some work now. But it is reliable and has never broken down on me. Mileage is great and it handles well, in snow or horrible rain. Id buy another CRV in a heartbeat.

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  Nice car but... - 2007 Honda Fit
  By Peter - March 16 - 11:33 pm

  This is a great car, fun to drive around town...but shes a screamer on the highway. reving 3400 at 110kph. If you can get used to the high revs, the car is awsome. I turn my stereo up. :o)

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  Great gas mileage - 2002 Honda Civic
  By manny - March 16 - 10:02 pm

  Its a great car on reliability and gas mileage. I was a little disapointed on the interior. It looks good, but there is a lot of plastic parts on the dash and door panels and after a while they get loose and rattle. It also needs more power, if you have more than two people in the car its really hard to get it going, especally on the freeway.

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  I love my civic - 2000 Honda Civic
  By Vic - March 16 - 9:21 pm

  Its size is perfect for a smaller person, I love the way the dash board looks, and I got it in vintage plum. Since then I have come to appreciate the reliability that Honda provides. Even though I live in the NE where we get winter 6 months a year it has always started. It is the perfect size for a small family or a college student, I practically live out of mine sometimes! Seats 4 adults comfortably, 5 at a squeeze (if they are small). A great car to learn to drive stick with, it is very forgiving.

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  HONDA CIVIC SI 6 YEARS LATER - 2000 Honda Civic
  By Luke - March 16 - 1:38 pm

  I bought this car in college because I needed a car to get from point A to B and that was different and fun to drive. I have had no problems other than what the previous owner had caused due to performance mods. My mileage in city driving has been about 23 mpg while on the highway at 72 mph it has been 32.5 max.I am very happy with this car and love driving it.

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  Great value - 2004 Honda Element
  By fsmith - March 16 - 12:58 pm

  Provides excellent interior room for storage and passengers. The variety of seating choices comes in handy when moving bulky items. The large back and side entry allows for easy loading and unloading of cargo, especially large and bulky items. It is very reliable with only regularly scheduled maintenance being performed. For the price, it is an exceptional value and puts higher priced SUVs to shame.

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  Obsessed! - 2006 Honda S2000
  By Oahu 27 - March 16 - 10:05 am

  I just traded in my 2005 Silverstone S2000 for a 2006 Laguna Blue S2000. (Too many silvers!) What a fantastic car and the only one I would ever buy as long as Honda keeps making them. So many things that make this 2-seater the tops. In addition my insurance is 75 dollars cheaper every 6 months due to the 2006 having a nifty traction assist and daytime running lights. I have driven every drop top from Porsche Carrera to the new SLK. Save 15,000 - 40,000 by getting this car. If youre not a "Label Queen" youll be more then happy!