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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  A Real Dream Car - 2016 Honda Accord
  By sheila most - January 28 - 7:12 pm

  I am a Honda-for-life person. I was in a T-bone collision with an SUV about a month ago as the driver of my 2008 Honda Accord sedan. The airbags deployed properly, and neither I nor any of my three passengers was seriously injured. That put the lynch pin in my decision to replace that car with the same make and model. The 2016 model is a real joy to drive. It is so quiet that I sometimes think I must have turned off the engine. My only suggestion for improvement is that the dealership should offer an hour course in setting and operating the multitude of electronics in the car. Seriously! My Honda dealer will help me with this problem, but there should be an actual class. In summary, the 2016 Honda Accord Sedan is a wonderful car!

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  Harley trade in - 2006 Honda S2000
  By Doc - January 28 - 7:06 pm

  I traded my Harley in because its safer in S. FL in a car. I dont miss my bike at all. Truely a great ride, it corners like it is on rails. Yes I have to side with anther reviewer, be careful of that low front bumper when parking in a lot with stops in the stalls. Overall it is an excellent car for a fun ride!

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  Old Faithful - 1999 Honda Accord
  By chellie88 - January 28 - 3:25 pm

  This car was my first new car purchase and after six years I am still pleased. I have been grateful as I look back and realize I never spent over $500 for any repairs. There is scheduled maintenance to keep up with but I didnt do all of them and am still blessed with a good performing vehicle.

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  element bliss - 2004 Honda Element
  By Ann Brown - January 28 - 2:59 pm

  I enjoy the interior versitility. I have gone camping, biking, hiking, taking the dogs for long drives, and moving hay in the back of my Element. I have also moved my youngest child into her college dorm. I also enjoy knowing that the floor and seats can be wiped clean. The cost was reasonable, so I can make the payment, save for retirement and pay college tuition.

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  Not impressed but keeping it real - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Ex-pecting more - January 28 - 12:28 pm

  Purchased an 05 ex cloth 12/05 immediatly began hearing a buzz or rattle coming from the "b" pillar both sides of vehicle just above the front seat belt pivot anchors. Service department, Honda rep and design engineer say it is an "Inherent characteristic of the door seal design" and they can not fix it. They will not buy back the vehicle, so I get to live with a "Buzz" in my ears. @ 310 mi have a rattle from front passenger dash @ the airbag. My mileage is 14.7 mixed driving. Radio reception & sound quality is marginal. Size and seating flexability are near ideal. The engine and tranny work together well. The steering is vague with too much on center play. Honda should be better for $30k

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  Sweeeet - 2006 Honda S2000
  By Russ Vitali - January 28 - 12:20 pm

  this is by far the best car Ive ever owned! It just emulates cool. Whenever I take it out, people stare and compare. Its not a race car, just one of the best valued sports cars on the market. Honda has done it right. The drive by fly on the 2006 make me feel good that I got the last year (2005) they car was still in its original format.

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  My Third Honda Accord...! - 2000 Honda Accord
  By Rich5150 - January 28 - 4:33 am

  What can I say...This is my 3rd Honda Accord. Its still the best bang for your buck! This is my first 6 cylinder Honda. Plenty of power to accelerate out of situations. Love it & fun to drive...

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  Great Commuter/Family Car - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By Jeff in Chicago - January 27 - 6:32 pm

  I commute over 30,000 miles to work a year in Chicago weather and have not had a better time. This vehicle provides me everything I need: 1) comfort, 2) great gas mileage, 3) safety, and 4) makes going to the home improvment store a snap (my wife prefers it as the grocery getter over the minivan as well). In addition the superb handling, this little in-line 4 clinder has great acceleration. 5 months after buying this, someone rear- ended me while I was at a light doing over 50mph. This car saved my life and the cabin remained untouched...crumpled exactly as advertised. While the accident was bad, I was at least reassured knowing if my children were in, they wouldve been alright.

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  Satisfied - 1999 Honda CR-V
  By Ann - January 27 - 4:47 pm

  I bought my 1999 CRV new and have been very satisfied with its reliability and functionality. I haul around a dog, groceries, sports equipment and kids with backpacks. I cant think of another car that is better suited for what I need. I owned two Camrys prior to this CRV and I can say for sure that the CRVs interior features are poorer quality than Toyota and here are some examples: stereo was horrible in the CRV but good in the Camry, air conditioning is horrible in the CRV but awesome in the Camry. The CRV doesnt have much "get up and go" if I need to accelerate quickly from a stop. I LOVE the AWD feature and it is fun to drive in the snow.

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  Impressive Coupe - 2006 Honda Accord
  By Pinoy - January 27 - 4:43 pm

  What a bargain for such a nice coupe with impressive list of safety features. 166 hp is plenty enough to tackle urban jungle with great ride, handling and comfort. A peace of mind for years to come considering great fuel economy, safety and reliability. Less trip for repair or to the gas pump - ah! heaven.