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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  WOW! - 2008 Honda Accord
  By corik - August 14 - 10:30 pm

  I have owned very high end cars and I am amazed at the expectations of some of these reviewers. This Honda is so fun to drive and very reasonably priced. A 20k car is not going to drive like a 50k car. My husband and I compare it to our old BMW. Of course, it has more road noise but so did the 5 series when we tested it. We are both tall, 511 and 62" and have no problems with the seats. This is a great car for the money.

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  Good basic transportation - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By Walter white - August 14 - 9:42 pm

  Always keep up with maintenance schuldule and it will give you reliable safe transportation

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  07 Accord EX-L - 2007 Honda Accord
  By Dan - August 14 - 2:03 am

  Tested several cars but always went back to the Honda. Have only had it a few days, but it seems to be a winner. Leather, heated seats, auto a/c, heated mirrors, power seats, ect. The 2.4 has really good power, and mileage is 34/24. After inspecting the car at home, I was amazed at the fit, trim and paint, just perfect. Interior is very well designed with audio and cruise on steering wheel. Warranty was good but I selected the 7 year, 100,000 mile extended warranty/no deductible for only 817.00. The ride is smooth with the new Michelin Energy tires, with a 440 treadwear rating, A on traction and A on heat. The car is just a fantastic piece of work. Leg room in back is great. Buy it!

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  Excellent Choice - 2009 Honda Pilot
  By travelgirl - August 14 - 12:46 am

  We looked at every Mid-size SUV on the market and the 2009 Honda Pilot was at the bottom of our list. My husband test drove it first and said I should really check this car out and I am so glad I did. It is beautiful inside and out, fun to drive, easy to park, great stereo, kids love it, and it has every bell and whistle you can think of. I am extremely pleased with the new Pilot. Who needs a mini van when there is an SUV like this on the market?

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  High on Honda - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Frerd Garman - August 13 - 8:53 am

  Our fourth new Honda, previously owned Accords. Find our new Civic roomy, responsive, and well put together. Would recommend the Civic to my closest friends.

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  Honda from here on out! - 2005 Honda Civic
  By tentoto - August 12 - 10:20 pm

  Honda has done it again. Wish i could afford another one.These cars are awesome. Ive owned Honda products for 11 years, and the Civic Si is More fun to drive than any other Honda ive owned before. No more domestics for me. Oh and 18 members of the family as well. Thank you again Honda.

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  A Compact With Class - 2007 Honda Civic
  By Hawkeye - August 12 - 3:56 pm

  This ones a real gem. Plenty of options, spacious, peppy 1.8L, and frugal on gas. Average gas mileage has been 30 mpg, combination city and highway usage. Steering is tight, with good manuveurability. Excellent driver and passenger leg and headroom for a compact. The split dash is easy to read. Of course, trunk capacity is limited, but the fold down rear seat option works for two people on a road trip. Would like to have the inside climate control of my Accord EX, but what can one expect for a compact price? So far, its been a classy addition to our Honda family. I just wish my wife would let me drive it every once in awhile!

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  July 2012 EV Fit - 2013 Honda Fit EV
  By srl99 - August 12 - 3:29 am

  Weve tried a lot of the "working mans" electric cars and PHEVs, and this is the first one that provides us the total package. Start with the "lease", which includes vehicle damage insurance. 3 years is a reasonable amount of time, and the total outlay over 3 years isnt bad. Especially because you only need to provide liability insurance (with moderate limits). While weve only been driving the car for a few days, the first outing was approx 60 miles, mostly freeway, and we ended that with 33% charge left. [Much of the time in Eco mode, and no AC or heat]. The next trip was about 50 miles, driven more normally, some AC, and ended with about 50% charge remaining. 100 mile range possible?

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  Great Vehicle - 2006 Honda CR-V
  By Mike Mc - August 11 - 8:10 am

  After owning a 2000 CR-V for 6 years which I loved, I wanted to find a reason not to buy another but when I drove the 2006 I was hooked! They had improved on the few items I didnt like on my 2000 and took it a few steps further...couldnt be happier with the decision to buy one again!!!

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  excellant - 2003 Honda Element
  By Gayle Donna - August 11 - 2:00 am

  I love it it is FUN, it is me!!!!!!