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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  Best in class - 2016 Honda HR-V
  By Steven Hayes - November 3 - 1:34 am

  Best small SUV except maybe for Kia Soul but no AWD in the Soul which is a huge deficiency.

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  Nice! - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By RA Corrow - November 2 - 12:36 am

  I had 22 wonderful years with my 1986 Ford Bronco II, so I knew I wanted to stay with a small SUV, but I wanted a 4- door this time. I looked at the Toyota Rav4, but decided on the CR-V. I was a little worried about getting a 4cyl, but I have no trouble passing. It handles really well and has a quiet, smooth ride. It has nice smooth brakes. Good gas mileage, I get 22-24 mpg. I hope I have my CR-V for 22 years!

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  A wonderful - 1995 Honda Odyssey
  By Yogibear - November 1 - 2:00 am

  The Odyssey is the most un-minivan of the lot, and it is really a Honda Civic wagon on steroids. The smaller size compared to the newer models makes the 95-98 models so cool. We love ours, the 2.2 liter engine would seem too small for a van, but in this case, it is perfect. The ride, mileage, functionality and visibilty of the car are outstanding. I would highly recommend this vehicle to anyone looking for a minivan. It even fits into compact spaces, and hold six!

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  Excellent, but... - 2010 Honda Accord
  By dimitrir - October 31 - 10:06 pm

  This review is based on 4 days of ownership and 300 miles. The most impressive feature is the handling. I have a 2007 Acura Tl and the Accord handles much better! Big surprise. Engine is extremely smooth and powerful. Build quality is excellent. Road (tire) noise quite pronounced. This is the worst feature. If road noise bothers you consider this car carefully. No glove compartment light and no courtesy light -I am fighting with Honda about the latter because I dont believe that this is possible.

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  Why all of the bad press? - 2008 Honda Civic
  By Danilo Umali - October 31 - 3:16 pm

  I have traded-in my 2004 Honda S2000 because I needed more space. This car gives up very little in terms of handling and performance. I love the way the car looks and the exclusivity of owning one. I guess I am a little too old (31) for the Fast and Furious look, but everything thing added to the car has a purpose and has been engineered as such. I imagine that this car is marketed to a select few, but I hope Honda keeps the Mugen cars coming stateside. I also love the color. This is the first car I have owned that is not white, silver or black.

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  Absolutely Superb! - 2008 Honda Civic
  By Stan - Amarillo, TX - October 31 - 10:33 am

  5600 mile trip AMA to NJ to NC to Austin to AMA: 37.54 mpg; highway portion: 38.73; city (incl DC rush hr): 30.42. Seats firm, but even a 700+ mile day was fine. Pushing it on NC 80 from I-40 to Blueridge Pkwy (posted 45 mph; most curves 15-20 mph rec) was fantastic: engine, gearbox, clutch, steering feedback, & stable seats combined for the most fun Ive ever had driving a car (Im 65). Car has 2 personalities: economy or fun. I dont think any other car can do both this well under $20K -- particularly with the EXs safety & Hondas reliability. The beige/ivory color combo & sunroof mean minimal AC use. On hwy, recirc the air, keep heat off, & turn AC on/off as needed. Will incr mpg!

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  Most fun for under $30k - 2004 Honda Element
  By elementereee - October 31 - 10:00 am

  this is the most versatile vehicle i could have imagined. Whether its hauling the dogs or laundy or televisions, its all good. REal smooth transmission. Awesome sound system with the EX. It only seats four but a seat cushion over the cupholders make a 5th passenger possible. The only complaint i have is that I could only afford 1.

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  Great car! - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By The Ds - October 31 - 10:00 am

  We are very happy with the pilot. It has lots of room. Very smooth ride in the city and on the freeway.

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  CRV Review - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By jdsbythepond - October 31 - 10:00 am

  We purchased the CRV after a lot of research and havent regretted our decision once!

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  Pilot - 2013 Honda Pilot
  By Sam - October 30 - 9:19 am

  Love it.