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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  The right choice! - 2017 Honda CR V
  By DJ - June 27 - 7:20 pm

  We love the safety features on the 2017 CR-V. The car is very comfortable. Our first time driving it was on a 6 hour ride and it was a pleasure. The heated seats are great for our cold, mountain climate. So far we are averaging 29 MPG. We are very happy with our choice.

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  What a Difference - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Kelly Jones - June 27 - 1:43 pm

  I traded my 01 v-6 sedan in for the 08 v-6 coupe and its a totally different drive. Im impressed with the performance as well as efficiency gains. The ride is a great balance between handling and comfort.

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  Buy This Car!! - 1998 Honda Civic
  By Elise - June 27 - 2:08 am

  I sold my Civic for more cargo room but miss it so much! This was a great car! Excellent gas mileage and incredible reliability, especially for a traveling college student. It NEVER gave me ONE problem. And my fuel indicator would be on "full" for days!! I could always count on this car. Very fun to drive. Honda knows what theyre doing! Ill never stray again! BUY THIS CAR! You wont be disappointed!

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  Civic Hatch Challenge - 1998 Honda Civic
  By Tou Chang - June 27 - 2:00 am

  Ive had this car for two months and its really fun to drive. I wish it had power steering though. The D16Y7 engine isnt all that strong but could use some VTEC. I also wished it had an RPM gauge. I love the exterior design with its aggressive look. Most of all there are many aftermarket parts to tune-up this little civic to make it one of the best cars to have out there.

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  The Pilot does it all! - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Anitajd - June 27 - 2:00 am

  We needed a bigger SUV for our family, because the Jeep Gr. Cherokee didnt have a 3rd row of seats. When the Pilot came out, we jumped at the chance to get one, especially w/ Hondas reliability. It handles AWESOME in 2 feet of snow. You actually CAN go off-roading in this SUV. And we were able to fit 8 in the Pilot this summer (4 adults and 4 baby seats). The Pilot has passed every test my husband has given it. Hes very happy!

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  Honda Mini Van Rating EX Leather / Auto - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Bob Buys - June 27 - 2:00 am

  This is a great all around van and and does everything well. I noticed an air noise coming from around the drivers door or window. Brought it back to the dealer who gave me the run around and said it was normal and all seals were in place. Adj. the door lock and changed the oil for free, because they couldnt fix the problem. Poor dealer service and i wont use them again. Nice van and plenty of room, great for travelling and the seats that fold into the floor are terrific. Nice smooth ride and handles well. All controls are laid out nicely and within arms reach.

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  Pilot - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By skovs - June 27 - 2:00 am

  The Pilot is a fun suv, excellent ride and can you see, no blind spots go and test drive it.

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  Billf is happy - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By Billf - June 27 - 2:00 am

  Wonderful Vehicle if you in mind for a Mid to small size SUV....great gas mileage, comfortable ride...with quite a bit of pep.

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  Great Car - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Bud Walker - June 27 - 2:00 am

  Great car. Ive had the car for exactly one year and I have never taken it back for a single warranty defect. Ive never had a car like that before. The only thing that I would like to have is a memory on the power seat and a graphic equilizer on the radio. Excellent radio (120Watts) without the equilizer Im just being picky. Excellent quality leather seating with adjustable lumbar support and heat! I would recommend this vehicle to anyone.

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  Disappointed - 1998 Honda Accord
  By Karl - June 27 - 1:45 am

  This is my first Honda -- after owning a Nissan, Mazda and VW. I was expecting legendary reliability. Bought as a certified car with 40,000 miles on it. Now have 100,000. Not used to having things go wrong on the cars I own. Am probably spending in the neighborhood of $100 a month on repairs (seems like every 3-4 months it costs me about $300-$400). Probably wont buy a Honda again. My Nissans, Mazdas and VWs were much more reliable.