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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  Miles of reliability - 1998 Honda Accord
  By 1998 Honda Accord - March 15 - 1:53 pm

  I bought my Accord right out of the show room in 98. I have a little under 300K miles and it never failed me. I am beginning to burn some oil and put in a quart every 1500 miles. Other than that, normal maintenance. Original tranny, motor, muffler. Starts in cold weather here in Boston, and had only to replace the o2 sensor about a year ago. I plan to keep driving her. I change oil every 3K and did all maintenance on her I am planning on changing timing belt soon and maybe I can go well on my way to 400K miles.

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  Fun little car! - 2010 Honda Fit
  By tiff - March 15 - 9:22 am

  Overall, this is a great little car. It handles well, great gas mileage, and is really cute. I for one really like the black interior. It shows dust easily, but hides a multitude of other stains which can occur with 2 dogs and a baby. The seat versatility is awesome. The major negative that I have come across is that the car does not feel very stable when doing high speeds on the highway. It feels like the wind can move it around quite a bit. Also, it came with no floor mats, which seems just ridiculous. Otherwise, though, I love my car. This is only day 3, so maybe it will improve!

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  93,000 miles and counting - 2003 Honda Civic
  By UncleTurbo - March 14 - 9:40 pm

  Bought my Civic new with the intention of keeping it until either it goes or I go whichever comes first. I was just short of 55 at the time and in very good health so I wanted a car with staying power, that was sporty, fun, and economical. So far, perfect choice. The Civic delivers super gas mpg, I get over 40 mpg on expressway trips and always over 30 mpg, and generally average 35 mpg. No repair issues one strut replaced under warranty ages ago, front brakes at 75K miles, and otherwise regular maint. Handles great, VTec motors hits with more power above 3,500 rpm, a budget sports car. It can take 4 people anywhere in comfort with their luggage. Just a practical and enjoyable car.

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  LX Coup w/ Spoiler - 1998 Honda Accord
  By Neil - March 14 - 8:36 pm

  Bought this car pre-owned certified w/ 14k miles. Best car I have ever owned and sad to be selling at 140k. The design and handling of this car is excellent. I was in 3 accidents in this vehicle, two sideswipes at high speeds and in all cases this car performed excellently. Only 4 cylinders but pickup like an 8. Interior has to be one of best designed ever akin to 98 "luxury" models. Trans went at 75k out of warranty but after complaining, Honda picked up the cost of parts and I had to pay only for labor. Other than that, an ACE of a vehicle. Also, the 98 design w/spoiler is better than the 2010 coup design. Love this Car!!

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  New to Honda - 2008 Honda Odyssey
  By Brian - March 14 - 8:27 pm

  This is the first Honda we had purchased. We had GM mini vans before this one. Last GM mini was not a good van. We have owned this van since Feb. 2008 and put lots of mileage on it. Last summer we had 3 adults and 3 children with a roof top carrier and still averaged 25 mpg driving at 70 mph. We added the rear sensors and it helps to park the van. The camera helps as well. Good features. Only problem I have is the passenger window rattles and wind noise when going 55+. Very good vehicle over all.

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  So much room, in such a small car! - 2010 Honda Fit
  By kestep - March 14 - 7:20 pm

  I was looking for a car with great fuel economy since my job keeps me on the road. The reviews for the 2009 were very good, and research online showed very positive user experiences. I have driven my 2010 about 3500 miles so far and Im averaging 35-38 MPG per day, with a few trips in the 40-42 MPG range. I am very tall and I have enough leg room and head room, and still could seat adults of average height in the rear seats. The magic seats are handy for the occasional trip with cargo. The engine is snappy when you need it, but I generally just set the cruise and enjoy the ride.

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  Love the truck, hate the seats - 2007 Honda Ridgeline
  By readycash - March 14 - 10:19 am

  Purchased new in 2007. Now at about 35k. No problems at all. Truck handles great in bad weather. Better than the Jeep Wrangler we had prior. The trunk is a great feature. Michelin tires still look new. Perfect vehicle for someone who wants utility. Only complaint is the cloth seats on mine stain way to easily, even water like has been mentioned in previous reviews. I am going to have mine re-covered with leather.

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  Iam in totaly love with my FIT. - 2010 Honda Fit
  By Josy - March 14 - 12:09 am

  I highly recommend for all my friends and family, huge saving in gas, the most that a I like over all is the stability, plus easy to park and very charm, special with me inside my black sport fit 2010.

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  Outstanding - 2010 Honda Fit
  By Mike B - March 13 - 9:56 pm

  There is a reason this car is ranked #1 in the world in the compact division. This car is what all others aspire to be. The engine, ride, sporty feel, the interior design and the quality are second to none.

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  This should help with your decision! - 2010 Honda Pilot
  By northeastpilot - March 13 - 10:19 am

  After driving everything, heres what I found. The popular Acadia got such great reviews but heres how I graded it: interior. B (too many cheap plastics) exterior. A- ride. B+. Drove the Acura (pricey for things I dont need) Toyota, Nissan, Ford, Chevy SUVs. None beating pilot. They either had quality or cargo issues. Heres my grade on the pilot-interior a-, exterior. B+, ride. A. Combined with with build quality & resale, its a home run. A guy I met said it perfectly. The pilot is like looking for the right woman/wife. Shes nice looking but not the prettiest. Get to know her and her qualities will win you over easily. Youll make a mistake going with the prettiest SUV (woman.