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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  In a Rollover accident with my HRV - 2016 Honda HR-V
  By Jaime - April 13 - 6:55 am

  THIS CAR SAVED MY FAMILIES LIVES!!!!! On 10/10/15 I was t-boned by a Toyota Tundra. I had 3 children in the back seat, ages 10, 8 and 7. The 8 year old boy was my neighbor. We were on our way to a pumpkin patch. The Tundra hit my passengers side door bending the frame of the car. My 7 yr old daughter was sitting behind the passengers seat. Shes alive and ok! The impact was so hard it took the passengers side wheels off the ground. Just riding on 2 wheels, we ran off the road into a ditch, coming up and out of the ditch the car rolled over on the drivers side then landed on the roof. When it stopped the rear of the car was completely off the ground. The hood and windshield was not visible from outside. It was all on the ground. Every airbag deployed and everything this car was designed to do, it did! We were all able to crawl out of the vehicle and walk to the ambulance, walk into the hospital and walk out of the hospital. None of us had head injuries, major neck injuries or broken bones. We were able walk away with just some bruises and soreness. I was asked by paramedics, police, nurses and doctors over and over and over again "What kind of car were you driving?". Prior to the accident, I was in love with this car!!! I plan on buying another one as soon as I get the check from the insurance company! My kids are alive after a horrific accident. What more could you need or want in a car???

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  Lovin It. - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By Citygirl - April 13 - 12:13 am

  I am a research based consumer, and a pretty practical person. I had my 96 Civic for 12 years before selling to get this new car. I couldnt be more pleased with my purchase. I compared it to a Rav4, Subaru, and others like Volvos and Audis. I wanted a practical car, but also wanted something luxurious! I went for the EX- L w/ Nav, and love all the bells and whistles. Feels solid, luxurious, love being up high, 4wd, and all the extras. Zips around the city and easy to park, and comfortable with great gas mileage on longer drives. Love the storage and space of this vehicle, doesnt feel like a compact suv. Its the best choice in its class, for SURE!

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  The Anti SUV - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By dithersail - April 12 - 11:06 pm

  Our third Honda, this one replaces a 1995 Civic that will go to another good home. Great car! Just right in size in features, ask yourself if you really need that Expedition to transport yourself and 2 kids around. I expect that well have this one over 10 years like the Civic.

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  3 Months with an Accord Hybrid - 2005 Honda Accord
  By JR - April 12 - 12:40 am

  After owning a 2001 Honda Accord V6, the thrill of owning the first ever Accord Hybrid was highly anticipated. This vehicle has met and actually exceeded our expectations for quality and just pure fun to drive. It has far more pep than other Accord models, handles remarkably well, rides extremely well and is just a pleasure to drive.

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  Typical Honda - top quality automobile - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By scottg - April 12 - 12:40 am

  Ive been a long time Honda owner (since 86) and the 09 CR-V EX-L with nav has met my expectations for what to expect from Honda - top quality automobiles. Had the CR-V for 2 months now, put 2000 miles on it. Its a solid car with an excellent fit and finish. The engine has plenty of power and the transmission shifts very smoothly. The controls and display are well laid out and nicely colored. The nav system is fast and the display is bright. The sound system is outstanding, plenty of watts for the size of the car. Drivers seat is very comfortable. The leather seat is more comfortable than cloth. Gas mileage so far hasnt been great, 18/24 but maybe will improve in warmer weather.

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  Really amazing car - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Chris - April 11 - 2:20 pm

  I got this car for my birthday. Wasnt to sure about it because i wanted the altima coupe. So glad I got this car. A lot better than the nissan by far and more for the money. This is my first car and I love it really fun to drive and very responsive.

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  How do they do it? - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By Bruce Jones - April 11 - 8:16 am

  How does Honda keep building the perfect auto? This is my sixth Honda/Acura and I am completely happy. This is my first CRV. Its the jack of all trades vehicle. I have a Karaoke business so I had to give up my Tsx for something with room for my equipment. I was worried that I would not like another auto as much. No worries! Its quite fun to drive. The interior feels upscale and the exterior has character. I also test drove the Rav but dont like the rear door or the spare tire hanging off the back. In conclusion if you are in the market for a small Suv you wont go wrong with this jewel!

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  Great car! - 2004 Honda Civic
  By xander - April 11 - 5:16 am

  All the reviews are right...great value for the money you pay. This is the best affordable car out there right now. You cant find any better.

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  super roadster - 2004 Honda S2000
  By n1k - April 11 - 2:00 am

  great handling, quiter, interior metal look is nice, overall Honda made a nice change.

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  Honda 2004 Review - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By rglover - April 11 - 2:00 am

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