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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  noisy and bouncy, bad transmission - 2016 Honda Odyssey
  By David Fass - March 16 - 10:04 am

  Ive had this 2016 Odyssey EX for a couple weeks, my first minivan. Frankly, I am really surprised at how harsh and jittery the ride is. I think "busy" is how it can best be described. The wind and road noise is bad enough, but why in a vehicle this large do I feel like Im bouncing down the road in a Toyota Yaris? Every road imperfection is transmitted to the cabin. I understand that people like a car to have some road feel, but do I need to know about every single 2cm crack and smidgen of gravel? What a frustration! Why would anyone want so much vibration transmitted to a vehicle that is principally used for hauling children? Why? Why? The van came from the dealer with tires over-inflated to 40+, so I reduced them to recommended pressure, but to no noticeable difference in ride quality. I am really surprised and upset that this is the best tire/suspension setup the geniuses at Honda were able to come up with. My 2012 Camry has a much more comfortable highway ride without feeling at all floaty. Im surprised that the professional reviews of the Odyssey so seldom mention its terrible ride quality. Is it just that everyone has gotten used to it? Ugh. So I really have to warn you people who are still shopping... if you are planning to take any long trips, make sure you THOROUGHLY test the highway ride of this Odyssey against the Sienna and Sedona (as I did not). I dont mean take a test ride on the highway for a cursory 3 minutes --- I mean take it out for at least 20 minutes on both smooth and rough highway. Pay attention to what you are feeling, and imagine feeling that for a 3-hour drive. You have been warned! If I were to do it again, I would seriously consider the Sienna. Also, the transmission. I dont know. It doesnt let the vehicle coast. If you get stuck are in traffic and you want to coast a little while until traffic stops again, the transmission wont let you. It will slow the car down to a stop. So you need to keep your foot on the gas to keep the car going at 5mph. Why? Who knows? Is this why Odyssey transmissions seem to die early? I dont know. Do I sound like I am happy with this purchase? In summary, yes, the Odyssey is car-like to drive. And thats what my wife wanted. And maybe thats all you need if you are driving it to the local school and playground. But for driving on the highway? Ugh. I think you will want something else!

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  Fun & fuel efficient - 2007 Honda Fit
  By carshow - March 16 - 9:10 am

  I drove a Mustang prior to this purchase, which was based on Hondas reputation and fuel economy. I didnt miss my Mustang like I thought I would. The Fit is fun to drive, easy to park, and gets great gas mileage. Back seats are horribly uncomfortable. The side airbags are nice too. Like a mini- SUV. However, my husband was just in an accident in his Fit and I must say while the airbags & seatbelt did a great job protecting him, the car is a total loss while the vehicle he hit was barely damaged. The damage was to the front driver-side part of the car, and the fender, dash, door, etc. were all shoved back, roof wrinkled. Like to see the metal strenghtened so its safer. Speed was 50-55 mph.

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  This one deserves MORE accolades.... - 2005 Honda Element
  By jockstarla - March 15 - 11:36 pm

  I was afraid after owning an Audi TT and a Mini Cooper S just prior to the Element that I was going to be very disappointed. Initially, I missed changing gears and zipping around my fellow Angelinos... but, man, the trade-off in terms of being able to lug things around easily, getting to see over all those cars in front of me, having 3 REAL cupholders instead of 1 (kinda) cupholder.... the creature comforts add up to satisfaction.

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  Suits my needs just fine - 2005 Honda Element
  By knitwit - March 15 - 10:00 pm

  I am pretty rough on cars & when i first looked at the elment i knew right away that its utilitarian style would definitely suit my needs. Im sort of short, so theres a LOT of headroom anywhere in the car for me...so im 99% sure a giant could fit. the only bummer is the gas mileage isnt ideal, its not HORRIBLE but still i feel slightly guilty about driving a car that gets under 30mpg.

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  Civic Hybrid 03 ... great car - 2003 Honda Civic
  By P Humberson - March 15 - 9:46 pm

  40k miles on it now. If I drive it insanely hard I get 41 mpg. Normal around 48 mpg. If I pay attention, I can get 55 mpg (stay off the interstate to do this.) Acceleration is enough to merge well on freeways (okay, so its not a Viper...). Handles fairly well and comfortable enough (didnt buy it to be a limo...). Its a great car and looks just like a regular Civic (a plus for me).

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  2006 Honda Civic Ex - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Jesse - March 15 - 6:41 pm

  I bought this car my senior year of high school and truly would go back and do it all over again. For my daily commute and how much i drove, the MPG and reliability were great! I get anywhere from 350 to 500 miles to the tank depending upon where i drive(city/highway) or how had on the pedal i am. I bought the car with 80,000 on the clock and now has 152,000 and have had zero issues other then regular/routine maintenance. I love this car and would recommend it to friends and family or for someones first car! I am a pretty tall guy and was a little disappointed when i first saw the car but when i got in and realized how much room i had and how comfortable it was i was amazed.

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  A Solid Car...with Class - 2001 Honda Accord
  By JCToro - March 15 - 4:39 pm

  I purchased my 2001 Honda Accord new. The car is very comfortable for a family of two (husband and wife). Getting into the back seat can be difficult for additional adult passengers (especially if they are not average in size). After almost five years, my Honda Accord looks and runs great. The only problem I have encountered was to replace the power door lock actuator (twice on the passenger side door). It is a car I truly enjoy driving. The V-6 engine has all the power you will need on the highway. This is the third Honda that I have purchased in the past ten years.

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  Ultimate roadster... - 2003 Honda S2000
  By Somehondaguy - March 15 - 1:26 pm

  After a 3 month search for a new sports car, I went through Z3s and z4s, miatas, corvettes and the like. NOTHING compared to the S2000. Combining legendary Honda build quality, a high revving solid as a rock motor, a lightweight and rearwheel chassis, this car is just a blast to drive. It has ample room for long trips, a driver oriented cockpit that is easy to navigate, and never leaves you longing for something more. If youre looking for a fun car that is reasonably practical this one will not steer you wrong.

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  "My new retirement gift, a 2916 Honda CRV-EXL." - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By Ron Elliott - March 15 - 11:06 am

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  True Sports Car - 2001 Honda S2000
  By Lehel - March 15 - 10:34 am

  This is a true sports car. It has a firm suspension, good amount of power and excellent power.