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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  I love this car. - 2001 Honda Accord
  By Austin - November 28 - 1:58 pm

  I have had my Honda Accord for a little over 4 years now. I bought it brand new and have had no problems with it at all. I currently has almost 100k miles on it. In my opinion, Hondas are the most reliable vehicles on the road today. The 4-cylinder Accord could use more power, but with the 4-cylinder you get great gas mileage. Great vehicle!

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  Love this hybrid - 2017 Honda Accord Hybrid
  By louienova - November 28 - 10:22 am

  This is my 4th hybrid so I’m stranger to finding how to get most gas out of this 2017 accord. It took a while to figure out how to get the most mpg’s when I first bought my first hybrid so for anyone reading this if it’s your first hybrid give it some time you’ll learn how to get the most mpg’s. I’m getting around 42 miles combined mpg and I do step on the pedal in Los Angeles driving the car is smoother than last 3 hybrids I’ve owned and the size of this accord is bigger than most hybrids for the price they I drove off with my touring for 29k it’s a five star car.

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  My Elementary Experience - 2004 Honda Element
  By Davea - November 28 - 10:00 am

  Solid car top to bottom. This vehicle does NOT leave friends and onlookers on the fence, they either LOVE the look or hate it.

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  popeyes new element - 2004 Honda Element
  By rolanddefries - November 28 - 10:00 am

  so far-so good, a most pleasurable ride, big enough, fast enough, inexpensive enough, great design -an excellent choice!

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  Could be better - 2001 Honda Accord
  By areiaman - November 28 - 10:00 am

  Mine is a 4 cyl/ automatic transmission. Had to replace the brake system power booster 2 wks after purchase (almost rear ended another vehicle). Now the car has developed a chugging noise in the front end and nobody is able to troubleshoot it. Sheet metal is paper thin, paint chips very easily. The engine has enough power, but you really have to punch the gas. LOTS of tire and wind noise and whinny transmission. Overall, a slightly less than average ownership experience and definitely not what I expected from a manufacturer with such reputation for quality and reliability.

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  Love this suv, so far! - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By ft-dalbey - November 28 - 10:00 am

  Just bought this 2004 SUV and for the most part, I love it. Its fun to drive, looks cool, handles great for an SUV, and has tons of room for passengers and dogs too! Yet, is small enough to be reasonable on gas and easy to park in small spaces.

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  honda quality at great orice. - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By faisal imran - November 28 - 10:00 am

  i purchased my 2nd crv from this dealership my first one was 98 and compare to the older crv, this new has improved has termendously. My wife drives it mostly and i had taken small trips in this vehicle as well currently i own a lexus ls 400 and i believe price and performance wise this suv is the perfect fit for us. i looked at several suv`s before making purchase we currntly own 2 other suv`s as well which are ml and explorer but price and performance and most important resale value is the key decision making factor for me and my wife. i hope this will help you with your future purchase of suv, benifit from my research while you are in the market.

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  Awesome Van! - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By GoPackGo! - November 28 - 10:00 am

  I traded in a F-350 Super Duty Pickem up truck. I will never buy American again. My Honda was built in Alabama anyways.

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  My red Honda - 2004 Honda Accord
  By fyrfytr - November 28 - 10:00 am

  nice styling,impressive interior,easy and good handling,great acceleration,quiet ride,average on mileage.

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  An Excellent Kid Hauler - 2009 Honda Fit
  By Jpsandiego - November 28 - 6:26 am

  I am coming up on one full year of driving, and I have changed my mind on this vehicle several times. Its lack of power, height and weak a/c (for me) are my only complaints. On the flip side I get great highway miles (44mpg coming back from LA) 32-35mpg combined, smooth conservative performance (tight and quick when I need it to be), tons of space inside, more than enough room for two car seats a double stroller and a trip to COSTCO, I love the way the steering wheel feels (even more than our 135i conv.), paddle shifters are fun, and the 10 cup holders are 100% used and appreciated.