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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  Best car Ive ever had - 2007 Honda Accord
  By PRKID - February 20 - 7:36 am

  Was driving a Hyundai Sonata before I leased the Honda Accord coupe. Thought I enjoyed the Hyundai until I drove this car. It has been a blast. The 2008s are re-styled and I like them but, to me, this coupe has a timeless style. The fuel mileage has been outstanding. I get an combined average of over 30 mpg with 37 highway and 28 city. I find it fun to drive and sometimes just go out for a drive even if i have nowhere to go. For the price, this is a winner to me.

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  From 16 Tacoma to 17 Ridgeline - 2017 Honda Ridgeline
  By OldShu - February 20 - 4:57 am

  People ask me why I switched from the Tacoma to the Ridgeline. Well, the Ridgeline just does everything better except for hard core off-roading. The seats are more comfortable, its quieter, handles better, fuel economy is better and is just easier to live with on a daily basis. Having driven 3 VW GTIs for the last 10 years, my bride and I decided we wanted to explore the good ol USA and, after MUCH research we bought a Lance 1475 TT ( 3600 lb GVW) . A GTI is not known for its towing abilities so a pick-up was up next. The Tacoma has a sterling reputation and the refreshed one was just out. Test drive revealed that, yes, it is a pick-up with the appropriate capabilities we needed. It was not particularly comfortable or quiet but it is a pick-up, after all. This past summer, after owning the Tacoma for 4 months I saw that the new Ridgeline was out and was curious about it. Did not really think it was a contender for what my usages are (75% commuting, 300 mi wk, 25% towing). The local dealer finally had one on the lot, so I stopped and took a look-see. Nice, but not the burly styled ride the Tacoma is. A little later another one showed up. I was still curious so I stopped in and took a test drive. Big, BIG mistake! If I had known that this pick-up was coming out at the same time I was looking at the Tacoma, it would not have even been considered. As far as towing goes, they both do a fine job but the Ridgeline is just better in-spite of the lower tow rating. One interesting thing to mention is the Tacoma had a payload rating of 956 lbs while the Ridgeline had a payload of 1397 lbs.

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  This car is way better than Prius. - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Wave3 - February 20 - 12:43 am

  Bought it 2 weeks ago. Excited with the actual fuel efficiency I am getting. For the first 2 tanks I got 50.4 and 52.6mpg, getting better. The cars sticker says 41-57 city and 43- 59 highway so no surprise some jack- rabbit drivers get poorer mpg but it helps if you know how not to drive. I think the number Forbes reported (26mpg city) is a Detroit hoax. Cool I get zero emission during stops. The car has good power and no problem at highway ramps or steep uphill. Stereo quality is not impressive. A plenty of interior room and the trunk space is fine for a golf bag or a large suit case. Factory window tinting could be darker. My dealer haggled and raised the price at the last minute.

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  Honda Accord Hybrid Touring Auto is Sporty Sedan - 2017 Honda Accord Hybrid
  By Stephen Goranson - February 19 - 3:09 pm

  Just bought it -- we love everything so far -- the style, handling, safety, tech features and gas mileage. Look forward to comfortable but economical longer trips with it.

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  Just leased this car and my son wants it... - 2016 Honda Civic
  By A Chiu - February 19 - 11:10 am

  It handles well on the road. It has a roomy trunk and the interior is larger than expected, which is a good thing. I like that the driver has a clear field of vision and the driver and passenger mirrors are well placed. I mention this as I was thinking about getting a different car make and model from another manufacturer, but the exterior mirror placement was not my style. Ive not had a chance to do any service or maintenance, let alone fill the gas tank. My teenage son has already called dibs and says he really, really likes it. Weve had different cars and have gone back to Honda as it has a reputation for reliability, longevity and for holding its value. Jay at Norm Reeves Honda in Irvine was very helpful in getting us a car that fit our budget with a car that had style. He was very thorough in going over all the functions, controls and swag. Thanks for going the extra mile to get the color we wanted.

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  Just leased this car and my son wants it... - 2016 Honda Civic
  By A Chiu - February 19 - 11:10 am

  It handles well on the road. It has a roomy trunk and the interior is larger than expected, which is a good thing. I like that the driver has a clear field of vision and the driver and passenger mirrors are well placed. I mention this as I was thinking about getting a different car make and model from another manufacturer, but the exterior mirror placement was not my style. Ive not had a chance to do any service or maintenance, let alone fill the gas tank. My teenage son has already called dibs and says he really, really likes it. Weve had different cars and have gone back to Honda as it has a reputation for reliability, longevity and for holding its value. Jay at Norm Reeves Honda in Irvine was very helpful in getting us a car that fit our budget with a car that had style. He was very thorough in going over all the functions, controls and swag. Thanks for going the extra mile to get the color we wanted.

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  Love the Fit - 2016 Honda Fit
  By bill - February 18 - 4:40 pm

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  this is a great car - 2004 Honda S2000
  By jesse1293 - February 18 - 10:00 am

  great handeling verry fast

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  Dont Judge a Book by the Cover - 2004 Honda Element
  By elementofluv - February 18 - 10:00 am

  I test drove the CRV and Element both, and found the Element to be years ahead in interior and exterior design both. The CR-V is great if you are want the Soccer Mom look (especially inside) but the Element is much more appealing to the single crowd. There is nothing you cant do with this versital SUV! Everything from Treadmills to BBQ Grills have been hauled in my new Element, with no hassle at all.

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  Finally the per fect SUV - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By KViau - February 18 - 10:00 am

  Over the past few months, I have test driven many mid size SUVs, done much internet research and convinced my "Chevy man " husband to actually consider a Honda. Once we test drove the Honda Pilot, we were hooked. Its heads and shoulders above all other comparably priced SUVs! It has a wonderful ride, superior handling and an interior designed to be attractive and functional as well as comfortable and exceptionally roomy! Everything exudes quality. I am very happy to have finally found what I consider to be the perfect SUV for me. Gas mileage isnt bad for a mid sized SUV. I love my Honda Pilot!