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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  Dynamite comes in small packages - 2005 Honda Insight
  By Brian Tennis - August 3 - 4:04 pm

  I really dont understand why the Editors rating is a full 40% points different than the individuals who actually own the car? Not enough horsepower for you guys? Cmon, this is a GREAT car. While not for everyone, those who do own them, bye and large, love them to death!

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  Liking it - 2017 Honda CR V
  By Emkeas - August 3 - 3:22 pm

  Ok so Ive only drove a 1,000 miles but overall I like it. Rides smooth, def a car hybrid that sits higher and tad heavier. I thank edmunds for its pricing tools, def help me find the best price. seats are semi uncomfy, could be better, the rear visibility is decent, cargo space is good, entertainment system is decent and armrest could be improved, overall its a solid car 8/10

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  A True judgment - 2016 Honda Pilot
  By Jorge - August 3 - 10:50 am

  This is an excellent suv; way much better than a Tahoe/Yukon /suburban (did have a very bad experience with a 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe); it is my second Pilot and I do love it; the quality is there.

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  brand new 1st time owner - 2005 Honda Civic
  By bigdave - August 3 - 7:30 am

  Just got this black little baby, and i might br a little early for a review but if the hype is true about owning a Honda i think i joined the happy Honda club. The car is fun to drive even with auto. nicely detailed inside and out. You must get black if you get the EX with the wheels. illuminated dash is cool! Nice solid ride and handling interior has a quality feel with the controls. Engine is quiet except at acceleration. bit pricey compared to competition but i guess youre paying for Honda quality. wanted to wait for all new 06 but needed a new car asap. This car sips gas like a fine brandy. Forgot how to pump gas. Shifter is the easiest and best designed i ever came across for an auto !!!

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  Sinviking - 2005 Honda Civic
  By Rone811 - August 2 - 8:46 am

  Its a great buy for the expensive gasoline times we live in. Its a fun ride regardless of it not being a race car it sure looks and feels like one. I like the mods that are out there I just want to say that its a great buy.

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  "Fair and Balanced " - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By Jim P. - August 2 - 4:43 am

  Initially had problem with steering wheel jiggle at higher speeds. Dealer did a spin balance of tires to no avail. Next the dealer had a power/force balance done at an offsite location and this worked. The dealer was very concerned and determined to fix the problem. The dealer was fair, and the tires were balanced.

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  honda hybrid power - 2005 Honda Accord
  By davevro - August 2 - 3:53 am

  This car has more performance and mpg than I thought possible. It really gets 37 mpg highway and 29 city and is the most responsive car I have ever driven. However I only have 3000 miles on it so all the complication necessary to get mileage and performance may yet bite me.

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  love my element - 2004 Honda Element
  By mush - August 2 - 2:00 am

  ive had "my element" for a year and plan on keeping it forever!!!great handling-shifting-comfort!!! able to transport large items (2 lawnmowers- dual burner bbq grill-bicycles-kayaks- and thats inside!)!!!everybody stares and questions ;but they all love the look!!!!i say "buy it and enjoy it!!!" i almost forgot, if you love music youll love the stereo!!!

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  Satisfied but desire more attention - 2001 Honda Civic
  By cabano - August 2 - 2:00 am

  I bought my 01 Civic new. I love the gas mileage and I find the car to be quite peppy. The styling is decent (interior and exterior.) The car has quality but for a Honda compact sedan I would expect a bit more. First, my insurance has gone up because Civics are expensive to repair. I am not to impressed with the Firestone Tires which were bald after 30,000 miles. The car is noisey at high speeds and uncomfortable for driver and passenger on long trips. Occassionally the brakes squeak, and just recently my gas tank release lever stopped working and I couldnt get my gas tank open.

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  im happy - 2004 Honda Civic
  By brockyates - August 2 - 2:00 am

  This is a great great car, but a big adjustment from the 1995 Nissan Quest I had been driving. I just took it down to NC from MD and it performed very nicely. Only problem I have had is that I have been tabulating mileage and only got 26 mpg city at one point. I got 37 on a tank when i was driving completely on the highway the entire time. Not sure if honda is lying to me. Have to agree with a previous comment that this car does not have much power. My sister has a 94 accord and this drives just like it.