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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  Fun, Reliable, and Stylish Car - 1991 Honda Prelude
  By bigbossbrad - July 16 - 2:00 am

  I purchased this car a year ago, and even after a number of part replacements, I still love the car and enjoy the ride. For those looking for an economical, sporty, and practical car, the 1991 Prelude fits the position. The car is cheap on gas, provides power and handling when needed, and offers a spacious interior and sufficient trunk space.

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  The car that wont die - 1991 Honda Civic
  By Q in Roch - July 16 - 2:00 am

  My 91 Civic has 150k miles on it now. I drove it through college, through grad school, and now its serving as a wonderful and, most importantly, RELIABLE 2nd car. I had to replace the alternator at 145k miles, but aside from that and scheduled maintenance, this car has demanded nothing of me. We also own a 99 Accord, and before the Civic, I owned an 87 Accord which didnt die until the transmission finally gave out at 257k miles. Were currently looking to trade in the 91 Civic for an Odyssey, but I dont want to betray my baby!!!

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  Driven further than the moon! - 1993 Honda Civic
  By brdesert - July 16 - 2:00 am

  I have owned this 1993 VX since 1997 and have put 305,000 miles on this incredible vehicle. I still have the ORIGINAL STARTER, CLUTCH, ENGINE, PISTONS AND RINGS. Constant oil changes and timing belt maintenance is the key.

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  CRV Review - 1998 Honda CR-V
  By Charlotte - July 16 - 2:00 am

  My CRV has been a very reliable, usable vehicle. My only complaint would be the dealer service. I have found it to be much more economical to get it serviced by a reliable mechanic. He is not as inclined to replace parts that are in good condition.

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  Best Bang for Your Buck. - 2006 Honda Civic
  By FijiBlueSi - July 15 - 9:13 pm

  Prior to this, I wouldve never considered owning any foreign car... Performance: This car is zippy, even if youre not hitting VTEC. It rockets, very quickly, to 60, and blows most competition away. Comfort: The pseudo-suede seats are comfortable, but I wish they offered a leather option. There is no lumbar support, which I really miss, though the height adjustment is a nice touch. The middle hump in the backseat is slightly uncomfortable. Economy: Good on gas at average 23/32, but requires premium fuel only. Fun to Drive: The best part. Amazing handling (second only to RX-8, that Ive driven), great road feel, smooth ride, tight, responsive steering. Amazing short throw shifter.

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  Love this car. - 2014 Honda Accord Hybrid
  By rukem1 - July 15 - 3:25 pm

  I had to wait 2 months to get the model I wanted (2014 Touring) but I am very happy with this car. I was getting 45-47 in the summer but Im finding my mileage closer to 38-40 when the temperature gets below freezing. I think the gasoline blend has a lot to do with that. I have been able to get over 50 but I live on a hill, so the overall mileage reflects that. The performance is excellent. Much like an Acura TL service car I drove when I owned my MDX. You get used to the gasoline engine noise in the background, especially when you realize the engines primary purpose is running the generator for the powerful electric drive motor. And over 40 mph, the gasoline motor is capable of 45 mpg.

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  Love our Pilot! - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By sg101 - July 15 - 2:40 pm

  We took our new Pilot for a weekend trip, and it was so nice to have. The ride is smooth and there was plenty of seating and storage. Passengers can easily get in and out of the Pilot, and it sat 7 adults comfortably. The middle console easily held our portable DVD player since we didnt purchase the Entertainment package, and it has plenty of outlets. This is the nicest vehicle we have ever owned.

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  A good buy - 2006 Honda Accord
  By fuegomexicano2 - July 15 - 7:33 am

  I bought the vp edition and it gives me everything i need from comfort and a good ride plus fuel economy with the 2.4 Automatic. I really enjoy this car.

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  quicker than most v-8s - 1999 Honda Prelude
  By roger ware - July 15 - 2:00 am

  wonderful, that about sums it up!

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  Perfect - 2000 Honda S2000
  By jgormley - July 15 - 2:00 am

  This car is Perfect in almost every way Only complaint is the plastic rear window. But most of the time the top is down anyway.