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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  Finishing break-in, but good so far - 2007 Honda Civic
  By Shocker88 - April 17 - 12:30 pm

  I bought my new Civic Si last weekend. I got 32.5 mpg for the first half tank driving mostly highway miles to VA from NC (248.9 miles). I have to say the car is nice for the price, and loaded. The only really bad design was the hand brake location, the prem gas is also not so good. Seems to be a good little sporty car. I look forward to reporting later after break in what my avg MPG is with using the shift light, or in some hard driving. Not liking the delay in drive by wire 0.9 sec delay in rpm fall. Tire noise is not bad at all. I have Mich. tires (summer/ all season?).

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  I LOVE this SUV!!! - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By CR-V Lover! - April 17 - 12:06 am

  I was turned off by the size at first, but as soon as I test drove my mind completely changed. Theres plenty of leg and head room. The inside has tons of features, too! More power for gaining speed on the freeway would be nice, but that would probably mess with the awesome gas mileage.

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  Just bought it - 2001 Honda Accord
  By Walter Melnyk - April 16 - 11:25 pm

  I just purchased this automobile three months ago and it contiues to amaze me. The car is comfortable, fun to drive and had the best five speed tranny that I ve ever experienced. Impressed with gas mileage. It is avering better than 25 in urban driving. So far so good, but without a doubt, this is the best automobile Ive ever ownerd.

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  Good commuter - 2001 Honda Civic
  By HXowner - April 16 - 9:53 pm

  Although I rarely get advertised 39/44 city/h-way mileage, it consistently provides more than 30 mpg without noticible lack of power. Going to the hills is another subject though... Handles nice and very nimble. Havent had any mechanical failures yet, but been having problems with warping rotors. Dealer insists that it is my driving, but when it consistently happens in less than 8,000 mile interval on the same wheel, I suspect the otherwise. But there isnt a sure way to prove it... Overall, a great performer for what its worth. So far it only consumes gas, oil, air and break lining.

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  Odyssey is a great car - 2008 Honda Odyssey
  By 740drvr - April 16 - 9:40 pm

  We have two you school age children and carpool with two more. Our 2002 E320 wagon has been a great vehicle, but we need two 7 passenger cars. After driving the CX9, Acadia, and Enclave we looked at an Odyssey. While minivans may not be "cool" there was simply no comparison in the way the Odyssey functioned compared to the others. Our new Odyssey drives smoothly, rides without wallowing, gets good MPG, has a tight turning circle and more traveling comfort than anything on the market.

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  I LOVE HONDAS - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By Debbie - April 16 - 6:43 pm

  I just bought this vehicle 3 days ago,and I just love it.It handles beautifully although I had to get used to it after owning a VW.The comfort factor and the fun features make it wonderful. I love the reliability and safety factors that are usually included in only the most expensive cars. The warranties and competent service make me a repeat customer.

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  Great car - 1995 Honda Accord
  By renison - April 16 - 2:56 pm

  This is my second honda. I think they are a great car with mnimal expenses as long as you see that they are regularly maintained. I have put little money beyond standard maintenance and new tires in this car and it has been a faithful auto for me. The only limit is the difficulty in conveying older people who can not enter/exit back seat easily. This is not the car for that purpose.

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  S-2000 - 2005 Honda S2000
  By John Killeen - April 16 - 2:31 pm

  I love driving my Honda S-2000. It is fun and reliable. I wish I had access to a race track so I could find out how really fast it can go.

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  coach - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By COACH - April 16 - 6:36 am

  I have no complaints about this car - it has just about anything one could ask for - rides & handles nicely - excellent pickup & the engine is not overly noisey - - outside noise is minimal - seats are very comfortable - wife has a back problem ,but thes seats have helped a lot - no extra cushion needed -

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  Great reliable car - 1992 Honda Prelude
  By txl146 - April 16 - 2:40 am

  Ive had this car for 3 months now and it puts smile on my face every time I take it out for spin. It has very torquey engine for 2.3L engine so you do not need to downshift on a highway to pass someone. Its one advantage over most 2.0L turbocharged cars. One thing I do not like about this car is that I have to use premium gas. I wouldnt call this car economy for that reason.