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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  Only Real Drivers Need Apply - 2001 Honda S2000
  By Darksol - May 11 - 2:00 am

  This is a sports car... If you want anything other than that look elsewhere... This is a car for those people who love to drive their cars, and not just for day to day transportation. There are many fabulous roadsters on the market today, but in my humble opinion this car is the best combination of speed, style, value, and fun!!!

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  Honda CRV - 2001 Honda CR-V
  By keneddiem - May 11 - 2:00 am

  the car is well designed and comfortable to drive. gas mileage could be better though

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  Very Pleased!!!!! - 2006 Honda Civic
  By DBingham - May 11 - 1:43 am

  This car is a blast to drive. Its one of the most comfortable cars Ive ever owned. I really like the dash layout. Its much easier to read than previous models. If your looking for a fuel- efficient, good looking car, this is the one for you.

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  2006 Honda Civic EX - 2006 Honda Civic
  By CentPADon - May 10 - 9:53 pm

  Weve owned our Honda for one year now, and it never ceases to amaze us how such a frugal car can feel like a much larger sedan! We drove it cross country last summer, and averaged 42 mpg highway miles. Its my wifes daily driver, and she gets about 32 mpg around town. We love this car, and we cant say enough good about it!

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  Great SUV for a great price - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By C. Craig Morris - May 10 - 6:30 pm

  Excellent SUV in terms of safety, efficiency, reliability, performance, handling and comfort. Safety maximized by dual front, dual side, and dual side curtain airbags; vehicle stability assist, all-wheel drive, and ergonomically sophisticated design. Accelerates well with the large bore 4 cyl engine, getting 22 city/27 hwy mpg, able to turn on a dime, but with a solid handling in turns, hills, wet weather, and snow. On road, they look small, but inside, they are cavernous - amazing! The roof rack and running board options give it a sporty, functional appearance. Very nice SUV.

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  Better-than-EPA-mileage - 2003 Honda Civic
  By Paula Kelly - May 10 - 7:13 am

  My civic replaced my 13-year-old 1989 Mazda. Six months after I got this car, my mom became ill and spent two years in a nursing facility 65 miles from home. For 104 weeks, I made the round trip at least four times a week. In the winter, with four snows, I averaged 46-50 mpg. With regular tires, 50 mpg was the minimum; I often got 54- 57 mpg. My round trip between Albany (NY) and Saugerties (NY) took about TWO GALLONS of gas. I would get slightly better mileage when I didnt use cruise control. I had to rally search for my standard-and I love it. The HVAC could be better. Suburban driving less than 20 miles a day gets 38-43 mpg. The car needs better colors.

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  Great Car!! - 1990 Honda Prelude
  By Trickster - May 10 - 2:00 am

  Before I bought my Honda Prelude, it was my dream car. Everytime I saw one I was envious. I was never prouder once I finally got my own. 8 years later I still love my Prelude. It has 139,000 miles on it and she still drives like its brand new. The only major work needed was a new clutch. The only reason I am getting rid of it now is because I need a bigger car for my family. I would keep the Prelude if I could, but the trade-in value is just too good for a 12 year old car. Im really gonna miss her!!!

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  A car worth the money - 1990 Honda Prelude
  By Hookem - May 10 - 2:00 am

  The 90 Honda Prelude is an excellent combinatin of sporty performance, good looks, great gas mileage and excellent reliability. I highly recommend this car

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  sorry to see you go - 1993 Honda Civic
  By goodbye friend - May 9 - 2:00 am

  What a great car my 93 EX coupe has been. 215k hard driven miles and I trade it in tomorrow for a new Subie. Wouldnt call it maint-free, as Ive replace CVs twice and brakes & muffler about every 18 mos. Sorry to see you go!

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  More than I expected - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By kevin - May 8 - 10:50 pm

  Honda hit the nail on the head. Functionality, yet reliability of a Honda. Plenty of room for 5 adults and enough power to pull a boat or small camper. This vehicle puts the other 4 door Suts to shame. No options available because its loaded with everthing youd need to travel in comfort and style. I get looks everywhere I go.