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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  untitled - 2000 Honda Civic
  By prophet - April 2 - 2:00 am

  fun to drive.. nice pep for a 4- banger.. fun to hit vtec.. handles well.. reliable and gets good mileage

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  "Odie the Odyssey" - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By P. Ravitsky - April 2 - 2:00 am

  My wife and I traded in our 1998 Grand Voyager SE in on the Odyssey, and couldnt be any happier with the choice we made. The kids love it. I know 2 other people who own these, and couldnt be any more happier than we are. Keep it up

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  I just love it.... - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By jjspringer - April 2 - 2:00 am

  After months of research and a couple weeks of test driving, the CR-V won hands down. I have really enjoy my CR- V. It has get up and go when needed and handles great. The ride is smooth and comfortable. The 60/40 split rear seat is very convient and easy to access. I love the 6 disc-CD changer location making it easily accessible. The compartments and cup holders are in abundance. I did not like the fabric of the seats and had them replaced with leather seats. Made a world of difference and is easier to clean. You get more than you pay for with the CR- V, great investment.

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  Great economy car - 2003 Honda Civic
  By User - April 2 - 2:00 am

  My experience with this car has been great. I have a standard transmission, so it really has a lot of get-up-and-go for a 4 cylinder vehicle. I havent had any complications, its fun and easy to drive. I previously had a 1991 Civic LX Sedan, and there have been many improvements since then! The road noise especially has really been reduced. The interior is small, of course, but amazingly roomy! On the same token, for such a small car, the trunk is huge!

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  Loving It! - 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour
  By bigjed - April 1 - 9:58 pm

  I am loving my Crosstour. I bought the pearl diamond 4 EXL, Sporty look, luxury, Good Sound System, Nice Navi System, as well as Bluetooth. I like the height of the Crosstour, you dont have to kneel down to get into the car, you just slip right on in! When I drive it, its like riding high, I can see the road. I like its bulky, strong look. It doesnt look like a cheap Honda. Coming from a BMW that always needing TLC, this Honda is very reliable. Getting use to side view rear mirrors, its nice that you dont have to break your neck trying to see if cars on on the side of you. This car is for good drivers and one who like quality.....

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  Great performance, horrible customer service. - 2016 Honda Civic
  By Edder Alcantar - April 1 - 8:16 pm

  I purchased this car a few months ago. Super smooth, great performance, and great design. Purchased the car brand new. AC did not work since day one. Honda tried to repair this issue three times without luck. The lane assist camera goes off every once in a while. Tire pressure sensor needs calibration often. The car is considered a lemon, but Honda ignores my calls. I have left voicemails to various managers without any luck. No call backs, no resolution. I purchased this car to avoid the hassle of repairs, maintenance, etc, but this car has been faulty since day one.

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  The best subcompact out there - 2009 Honda Civic
  By Hapy driver - April 1 - 6:16 pm

  Concerned about going from a V-6 to a 4 cylinder. Not anymore. A zippy little car with great stopping power. Urban Titanium color gets great remarks and some say the body style looks European. I like the double decker dashboard. Cant be accused of telling a police offer I didnt know how fast I was going.

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  I go eco - 2005 Honda Insight
  By Tfoster - April 1 - 11:21 am

  I love my Insight! Its actually my 2nd Insight. Its perfect for someone whose lifestyle allows for only two seats and plenty of room in the back for all sort of stuff. While Im not going to win any wind sprints, I take comfort in knowing that I can make it 600 miles+ on my 10 gallon tank, especially with gas prices what they are today. Its a fun car to drive while protecting the planet.

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  It has been an Odyssey - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By Mike - April 1 - 11:20 am

  Before buying, we researched many vans and this came up on top in all. But after mystery electrical issues that have left us stranded 3x and having to replace all four tires after 18000 miles (at Hondas expense) makes me concerned for what the next 18000 miles will bring. It is a very comfortable van, nice features dont get me wrong. Fuel economy should be better, option for non-run flat tires should be there, and maybe the weight of the tires contribute to the lower mpg than even my brother in laws EX-L. Handles very well and VCM is unnoticeable.

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  Honda CR-V exl - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By Rich Black - April 1 - 4:12 am

  Great car (so far) only have 600miles. Like it a lot. Had a Civic before. In and out was a pain for the Civic also pickup was marginal. The CRV solves all that and is a better ride. Go get one!