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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  great car - 2006 Honda Civic
  By billybud - September 25 - 10:40 am

  I have had this car for a little over a week. My wife has had a civic hybrid for over 2 1/2 years. Never had a problem so I decided to trade in my crv. I have 1000 miles on it so far. My mileage has been pretty consistent 50 /51 mpg. I dont do a lot of city driving. so I will have to wait and see. It is a very quite smooth runing car.

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  Awesome car ever - 2007 Honda Fit
  By Stanly - September 25 - 7:20 am

  I just got the car yesterday (4/26/2006). I got the HOT RED so happy. Im the first one who gets this car in that dealership. I love this car so much, because it reach my personal style. I always want to get a car with a lot of spaces and saving gas. SUV is my first choice, but SUV cannot save on gas. FIT came out is my lifeguard, it can save so much money for me during the year.

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  CR-V - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By art - September 25 - 7:16 am

  Test drove PT Cruiser and Toyota RAV 4, but they werent very comfortable. Someone at work suggested the CR-V, so I tried it and was very impressed. Its actually shorter than my Volvo sedan. Very roomy and comfortable to drive. My wife was a little intimidated about driving it at first, but was amazed at how easy it is to drive.

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  Very Nice Van - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By ccb - September 25 - 2:50 am

  Very Nice- Touring Model looks nice with Chrome outside. Like Sun Roof, wish Honda had AWD as option though, and a spare. If and when Run Flats get a nail in them, its not as easy as going to a gas staition.

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  MPG overrated by Honda - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By KEVIN - September 24 - 12:46 pm

  I have not come close to the MPG stated by Honda. I would like to get over 17 in town and 24 on the High way. I was promised that I would get 18/28. Not even close.

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  LOVING IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! - 2006 Honda Civic
  By melisag - September 23 - 11:43 am

  Omg I love this car, but dont tell my husband!! He picked out the car and then brought me down to the dealership and I told him it was too small (we have 3 children), but it turns out it is just right. I love the placement of the speedometer and the comfort of the seats. It definitely gets up and goes!! It turn corners very nicely and I can make a u-turn and not run over the curbs.

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  A great value - 2007 Honda Civic
  By jayster34 - September 22 - 6:13 pm

  I bought my Civic because I wanted reliability and good fuel economy. I have owned only small cars; this is the closest to a "big" car I have ever owned. It is far bigger than it looks, but drives like a smaller car. I am averaging 38 mph on the highway and 26 mph in hilly city driving. It also has the best heater/defroster that I have ever seen. My only complaints are a "lumpy" drivers seat and a parking brake that gets hit every time I enter the car. I love the digital dash; it is easy to read and looks "cool". I also wish that it had a trunk release button on the key fob and a sunglass holder. Other than that, it is a fantastic car.

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  Element not only for active singles! - 2003 Honda Element
  By chstamjo - September 22 - 2:00 am

  I am a married mother with two young children. This vehicle is a dream come true. Seats are waterproof/stainproof, no carpeting, fantastic headroom, easy access to the rear seats to situate the kiddies, low sales price......so, much more! I am so happy with my purchase. I have many vehicles in my life, but the Hondas are the ones I keep for years and years! This vehicle will be no exception!

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  great to drive - 2003 Honda Element
  By vigils3 - September 22 - 2:00 am

  I just got it and I love it. It looks great and is fun to drive. The only down side is when there is any wind you realy feel it.

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  Driving Well - 2003 Honda Element
  By shijflo - September 22 - 2:00 am

  WoW!!! WoW!!! I was excited from the time the decision was made to purchase my Orange Element and I am still EXCITED! This vehicle handles well in the city and on the open road. It is comfortable and FUUNNNN to drive. The gas mileage and features were as advertised per stated specifications. The sound system is marvelous!!! And the body style is very very eye catching. Plenty of leg space and the seating is very spacious for a wide body!!