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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  Fits fine - 2009 Honda Fit
  By strapper - November 10 - 2:30 pm

  My fit fits our family fine. It turns on a dime, and is comfortable on a 600 mile trip. Needs one more power outlet for TV and Play Station. Plenty of cup holders. Just adequate power, not a race car. Im getting on average nearly 40 mpg.

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  "Sleeper" Hit - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By dethspink - November 10 - 11:53 am

  A great truck. There are most places and methods to store things than I know what to do with. If youre doing big loads in the back it may not be the best option since the bed is a little stumpy. But for doing things that almost any normal person needs to do it works very well. Having 3 outlets is also nice for what I do. The oil-meter lets you know when its about time for a tune-up. For me, its been around 5000 between trips to the dealer, which is much better than expected. I average around 20-21 mpg commuting etc.

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  Lovin it so far. - 2016 Honda Civic
  By Laserda - November 9 - 12:19 pm

  I have only had a few weeks, impressed so far... we will see how it handles in the Wisconsin winter! Floor mats seem to wear more than expected. Could be a potential problem.

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  One SWEET Ride - 2006 Honda Accord
  By Dr. B - November 9 - 6:46 am

  I bought this car in Carbon Bronze on Jan 27 and I simply LOVE IT!! I own a civic and this Accord felt like I was getting re-acquainted with an old friend that can talk back. The voice activated features really help sell the car. The buttons are all in easy reach and everything is simple to use. The ride quality is excellent and the Michelin tires do not disappoint in the rain. The navigation is very good. I have gotten very comfortable with my heated seats and XM satellite radio as well. The leather is firm and supportive and the climate control makes sure youre always feeling nice and cozy inside. I also like the variable wiper speed that adjusts to the speed of the vehicle..really cool.

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  Great Car - 1998 Honda Accord
  By ejgarc - November 9 - 2:00 am

  Good, solid economical car that has a little bit of everything. It has some sportiness to it, but can still carry 5 passengers comfortably, good on gas, but still has passing power on the highway.

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  Its sooo comfortable - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By bkuhn - November 9 - 2:00 am

  Had a difficult time finding the color we wanted w/ the nav system. Settled on green. Dealers (all 4 of them) jerked us around on what they could get and the price. Other than that, the car feels safe, sturdy, and has handled WONDERFULLY in the mountains (10k ft+). Awsome acceleration either going up the mtn grades or passing on highways, and I was able to plow through 1 ft+ of snow to get to my driveway. Has not slipped or skidded on even the worst ice/snow covered roads. And the front seats are the best. No sore bum after 3-4 hrs of driving. Gas mileage is 17-18 average.

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  Lets Go CR-V and the Celtics~! - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By kalokt - November 9 - 2:00 am

  I just bought a new honda cr-v ex 03 in a great dealer in massachusetts."a lot of discount" eventhough people said honda doesnt discount much~! The car itself, it has a great performance on rockie roads and highway. I like the exterior look of the car, even though i dont like the head light.~!

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  GGRRREEEEAAATT - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By Melis - November 9 - 2:00 am

  This car is the best!!!!!!!!!!

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  Last one - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By Vickie Kesler - November 8 - 8:35 am

  I have only had my new 2016 Honda CRV for about 1 month and enjoying it so much. The visibility all around while driving is amazing. This is the first vehicle I have owned that I feel like I can see in any direction with no problem. I love that it has an eco feature that helps me learn how to get the most mileage out of driving.

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  THE Class Act CUV with Value! - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By 04a.muse - November 7 - 1:13 pm

  After a couple hundred miles, we concur: safe, secure, quiet, economical, comfortable, refined and roomy. Everything youd want in a (S)CUV. We test drove the CR-V during a ferocious wind and rain storm, through standing puddles that would have sent our old Subaru Outback sideways. It didnt even notice them. The AWD was completely transparent, and the brakes felt great. Honda should be congratulated for resisting direct competition with the RAV4/V6 w/third seat. Anything more powerful with additional seats is a Pilot. Save fuel and do less harm to the environment with a CR-V, you wont want more. Just dont let anyone try to convince you that this is a truck.