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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  No regrets! - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By amcarroll - January 18 - 10:00 am

  At first glance, I loved the 2002. The CR-V is a hoot to drive and compared to my two previous Accords, the power is fine for me. Dont need to tow with it, Ill let my Chevy truck handle that. The CR-V is a daily commuter in all types of weather and a weekend mountain hopper. At 600 miles, no problems to mention(knock on wood) and figured milage out at just at 25 mpg. Very satisfied with my choice.

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  My Review - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By RSB - January 18 - 10:00 am

  Excellent

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  Get smart-get Pilot! - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By sgershfeld - January 18 - 10:00 am

  If you want to get a car for your family, but not a minivan than you definitely should consider oversized SUV with third seat. For me choice of "PILOT" was easy- I trust Honda on reliability and quality (my other Honda has 250.000 miles). Super slick, very detailed interior design. Even though it doesnt look huge from outside, it is very roomy inside! Smooth ride! Just one little thing I did not like: floor mat at driver side doesnt cover all surface- so I had to put an extra floor mat over the top.

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  Wind noise - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By mossy - January 17 - 3:06 pm

  It is fun to drive and the looks are great. It has plenty of power and the mileage seems to be outstanding for a truck.

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  Unknown characteristics - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By wkroberts - January 17 - 5:03 am

  Before you buy a Pilot, understand that it has a lot of “characteristics” that develop later in life. A shaking in the front end that occurs over 65. As 65 is the posted speed limit for the majority of this area, the local Honda dealer does not feel compelled to address the issue. The sloshing noise in the gas tank when it’s full. Honda knows about the issue, but as it only occurs when the tank is full, they see it as characteristic. The brakes make a terrible noise when the ABS kicks in and the front wheels tend to lock-up in a panic stop. This is partially due to the location of the ABS unit and “glazing” of the rotors. It tends to hesitate when cornering at low speeds.

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  Hybrid Drivers make it last! - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Easy - January 17 - 2:56 am

  I have thought of making bumper stickers for my Civic but I love it some much I dont want to mar its appearance. I guess Ill have too once I get my HOV sticker. I havent gotten my registration yet so it will be awhile. Anyway - on with my review. My wife owns a Prius which I have driven so I can nake first hand comparison. Prius hybrid system is slightly better since it can move the car from a stop without the ICE, perfect for traffic jams or congested freeways.The Prius averages 45 MPG so far.The Civic beats the Prius in all other categories. The Prius interior looks cheap by comparison. If you are after the highest MPG car get the Prius, but if you want a fun to drive car get the Civic

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  Overall, great dependable car - 2002 Honda Accord
  By Megan - January 16 - 10:36 pm

  The 2002 Accord EXL was my first new car purchase and I am very pleased. I knew that I needed a reliable car for at least the next five years and thats exactly what I got. Low maintainence, great fuel economy all in a package that is fairly classy. My only complaint is the pick-up -- I dont know if its just the reality of my car getting older, but my cars acceleration has decresed appreciably.

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  Buyers Remorse... Retracted - 2008 Honda Accord
  By jt007 - January 16 - 8:36 pm

  When I bought this car a year ago, I initially wrote a review stating I may have buyers remorse due to extremely uncomfortable drivers seat. I have now logged 51,000 miles and can give a very accurate review. Dealership replaced my drivers seat, made all the difference. Car averages 28 mpg overall, mostly highway. I have gotten as high as 31 on long trips, no air, driving 79 mph. Besides oil changes and tires, no unexpected problems. Cracked grille was replaced by dealer at no charge. Factory fog lights cracked, were replaced at cost. This car is very reliable, and driving it in Michigans "blustery" winters has been nothing but sheer confidence. Overall driving experience A+.

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  dont hesitate - 1994 Honda Accord
  By Naileater - January 16 - 8:25 pm

  190k and still runs like a top. I would drive it across the country right now. Looking for another 50 gr out of it.

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  Nice Car - 2001 Honda Accord
  By Hal - January 16 - 5:35 pm

  Nice car. Good body shape -- doesnt look trendy, even after five years. In fact, prefer body shape to current model. Good quality materials. Highly reliable. Comfortable seats. Good driver control positions. Good engine -- the power of a 6 cylinder with the economy of a 4 cylinder. In general, better quality vs. my Lumina it replaced.