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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  untitled - 2000 Honda Civic
  By nbjhfl,uyhvjhn - November 28 - 10:00 am

  This is a hassle free city car. Very versatile. Park anywhere, haul a good amount of stuff and reasonably pleasing to look at. Not a car to be excited by but certainly one to depend on.

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  New Honda Pilot - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By beshannon - November 28 - 10:00 am

  We are very pleased with our recent purchase. Lots of storage space, well thought out compartments, very nice interior trim. Ride comfort is excellent, engine is smooth. Nav system is very good although the software is several years out of date. Audio system is good, dash mounted tweeters are a little shrill. Excellent visibility, large mirrors and good over the hood view. We compared ML350, RX330, MDX, Murano, Touareg.

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  One of My Most Favorite Things - 2009 Honda Fit
  By kookiecat - November 28 - 2:24 am

  Before I bought the Fit, I was contemplating getting a Nissan Versa. But things changed when my sister and her husband bought a 2007 Honda Fit Sport--I was so impressed that I decided on getting the 09 model. I am so glad I did! It has a lot of power and is so fun to drive! The stereo, IPOD input are my favorite features since I have to have music whenever I drive. The things I dont like about it are few namely: rough/ grainy paint finish (needs more sanding/ coats of paint maybe), no car mats, no height adjustment for drivers seat, no window tint. Otherwise, I highly recommend this car for those looking for fuel efficiency, functionality and cuteness in their car!

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  RUNS - RUNS - RUNS - 2000 Honda Civic
  By Den2000 - November 26 - 7:55 pm

  I bought this used a few years ago with 80K miles. Had the timing belt/ acc. belts and water pump replaced at that time as per regular maint. Now have 115K of trouble free driving. This car should go 200K plus with regular service. This is a real solid, dependable little car. Keeps on going and going every day trouble free. Cant go wrong with a Honda.

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  Bigger than than the CR-V - 2016 Honda Pilot
  By Johnny Kassay - November 25 - 4:05 am

  The Pilot is a lot bigger than the CR-V, it had taken some getting used to when judging parking and such. Very roomy however. The only thing about the car that I dont care for is the keyless start system.

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  Great Car - 2003 Honda Civic
  By pvaultguy - November 24 - 10:58 am

  Great economical car. Great fuel economy and low cost of ownership. I have had no problems with this car. Very reliable. The ride is a little firm but it is the Civic not the Accord. Acceleration is decent. Parking is very easy. The interior is very nice. The back seat has decent room for a coupe. I would recommend this car to anyone looking for an economical and reliable car.

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  Great car for the money - 2006 Honda Accord
  By Motor_Street - November 24 - 12:53 am

  I bought it two weeks ago and am very pleased. 29.4 MPG in second fillup on city/country roads (no highways!). I looked at others but decided on the Accord due to fuel economy and roomy interior. I was willing to spend a few thousand more if I could get more value but couldnt justify it based on what I was getting with the Accord. I went out with my wife and another couple last night and they couldnt believe the comfort and room in the back. On the downside, I wish they would have a thermometer that it easy to access. Other annoying omissions include no mute button on the radio, no fuel economy guage and no compass!

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  So Far So Good - 2009 Honda Pilot
  By michelle - November 23 - 4:56 pm

  I just traded in my 2006 Pilot for the 2009 because I could not find a 2008 SE in my area. That being said, I read all of the reviews and was quite hesitant, but so far I am pleasantly surprised and happy with the vehicle. It is definitely geared more toward its competitors of the Pathfinder and 4Runner in that it drives much more like a truck which will be a disappointment for anyone looking for the new Pilot to be exactly like the old. With that being said, its overall functionality is much more than the previous models in that it is much more spacious, heavy duty and an "all around" family vehicle.

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  Great Car with low Maintenance Costs - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By Syed Asif - November 23 - 4:20 pm

  Bought it brand new and now have 104K miles. No trouble other than a AC switch ( $450 ). Low cost SUV and a pretty safe one at that. Love it.

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  Bullet proof reliable - 2001 Honda Civic
  By habz24 - November 22 - 8:16 pm

  I bought my 2001 civic couple lx new. I bring my baby to the Honda hospital for every oil change and inspection required. The only thing Ive changed on my car in 8.5 years are wiperblades, not even a lightbulb. The suspension isnt the best, feel every bump pretty much, but completely bullet proof car.