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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  Love it, Love it, Love it!! - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By Christina - May 30 - 10:03 am

  I love driving this car! It is very classy, yet practical. The exterior is very sleek and attractive. I have the royal blue pearl exterior with black leather interior. It has a lot of kick for a 4 cylinder. I have gotten a lot of compliments, especially from a current 2002 CR-V owner who now wants to upgrade. I was contemplating buying the RAV-4, but the features available on the CR-V, along with the appearance far outway any other SUV in its class. The safety features are amazing and got me a low insurance rate. I previously owned a Civic and I now only pay $60 more a year, which is quite reasonable. Overall, I highly recommend this car to anyone considering buying a mid-size SUV!

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  Awesome 06 Civic - 2006 Honda Civic
  By JACK - May 30 - 6:53 am

  Going from a 03 Civic hybrid to the 06 Civic EX was a dream... I actually only avg. 42-43 mpg on the hybrid and with the 06 EX on 12 gallons I traveled 460 miles with a 1.9 gal reserve as stated in the owners manual. Nav option not necessity.

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  best small car - 2007 Honda Civic
  By Honda buddy - May 30 - 3:26 am

  A little on the expensive side but well worth it. best car in its class, hands down. and great resale value later. something you should remember. that always helps put money on the next car.

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  Great for the $ - 2001 Honda Prelude
  By sassylude01 - May 30 - 2:00 am

  A great car for traveling or whatever! Great gas mileage, too. Dont buy it without the spoiler - it makes the car! This car definately does not get the attention that my 92 model Prelude that I previouly owned, but is definately a good buy for a sports car.

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  rocket rod - 2002 Honda S2000
  By bubbsie - May 30 - 2:00 am

  wow! what a kick butt ride! This car gets more looks than my corvette convertible ever did and it handles better too. How can you keep under 7000 rpm in this baby? If you never have driven one, beg the next owner you see for a ride.

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  Excellent Car, almost prefect. - 2007 Honda Civic
  By Tonino - May 29 - 1:03 pm

  I got mine 3 weeks ago, and I am very happy with my choice, I only wish there was a lock for the glovebox, other than that, everything is great, the sunroof, the interior materials, the audio system. I look forward to my trip to New York, Ill drive all the way.

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  my 2004 honda crv - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By Richard Kemple - May 29 - 11:23 am

  Love this car its fun to drive , good handling and very dependable. It has had some rattles that do not seem to disappear around the drivers side rear seat. Hard to locate. The front seat armrest is useless for larger drivers. Mine has not been getting the advertised gas milage.

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  Pleasantly Surprised! - 2006 Honda Accord
  By happywithmypurchase - May 29 - 9:43 am

  Been in the market for a car since my lease on the 2003 BMW 530i was coming up. With the gas prices where it was heading, didnt really want to drop a bundle on a car nor pay for the premium gas at the pump. Ive been very happy with the car for 3 years but felt it was time to be more practical. Looked at a Maxima, Avalon, Camry, and Accord. Finally decided on the Accord based on price, quality, reliability and practicality. I am so glad I went with the Accord. Saved about 3k with the comparably equipped 2007 Camry. I was concerned about going from a torquey German I6 to a Japanese four banger, but so far, I have been very happy with the car. I recommend this car to all in this segment. Nice

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  Great Car!! - 2007 Honda Accord
  By a - May 29 - 3:16 am

  Love this car. . . .would never have gone to a sedan if it werent for the comfort of these seats. . . very sporty feel.

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  A great car even after 5 years - 1997 Honda Prelude
  By arad - May 29 - 2:00 am

  I thought this was a great looking car from the first I saw a preview in one of the auto magazines. Had to wait 3 months to try one at the Honda dealer around Thanksgiving 1996. Bought the 5th one the dealer had in stock in January 1997. Have had zero problems with this car. Mine is somewhat unique inn that they stopped making the Eucalyptus green with the 2 tone interior after the first year and went to the generic "Ford Explorer" forest green with the black interior. My 2 tone tan/black is cooler and classier. The car is great under all conditions except snow.