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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  Honda shows why it holds its value - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Kendall - March 27 - 1:40 pm

  This is an SUV that drives like a sedan. The quality of the workmanship is apparent as soon as you close the door. I am part of a Honda family and tell myself everytime I buy a new vehicle that I should try something different. However, the quality, resell value and reliability always brings me back. The Pilot is a great step into the SUV market for Honda. If you are looking for an SUV that doesnt drive like a truck or drink like one either this is your car.

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  What a Value!! - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Sarah - March 27 - 7:56 am

  This car is perfect for anyone, ages 16-60+!! I have not found any one detail that I would change of this car to date. Honda reliability, Honda sportiness, Honda legend. Safety features pouring out of ever square inch of this *roomy* new version of everyones favorite car!

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  1998 Honda CRV - 1998 Honda CR-V
  By CIDPUSA - March 27 - 5:13 am

  THIS IS A DRIVERS CAR, Independent 4 wheel suspension. 4 wheel drive go anywhere. Easy to park and superb views.

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  1998 Honda CRV - 1998 Honda CR-V
  By CIDPUSA - March 27 - 5:13 am

  THIS IS A DRIVERS CAR, Independent 4 wheel suspension. 4 wheel drive go anywhere. Easy to park and superb views.

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  1998 Honda CRV - 1998 Honda CR-V
  By CIDPUSA - March 27 - 5:13 am

  THIS IS A DRIVERS CAR, Independent 4 wheel suspension. 4 wheel drive go anywhere. Easy to park and superb views.

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  Brilliant! - 1997 Honda Civic
  By Train2219 - March 26 - 3:22 pm

  I purchased my 97 Civic LX 5 speed when my 87 Pathfinder died w/170k on it. I purchased it used 83k on it. This car has been everything that I need it to be. Flawless reliability, outstanding fuel economy, and surprisingly fun to drive despite only having 106 horses to work with. The 5 speed manual makes all the difference in this car. Its a total dog with an autotragic transmission. I have just turned 100k and have no doubt that it will run for another 100.

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  Best value in a car - 2018 Honda Accord
  By Cliff Trump - March 26 - 9:59 am

  Terrific luxurious feeling car with a bargain price tag. Technology is outstanding. Only mistake by Honda is not allowing buyers to choose the engine they want as an option, rather than offering the 2.0 only in packages that would put you well into Acura TLX money.

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  Its Pretty Good - 1998 Honda Accord
  By big boy - March 26 - 4:40 am

  The car has good acceleration and handling. Automatic gear changes are a little harsh. Cruise control accelaration has too much response. The driver seat comfort needs improvement. Car looks good and has never left me stranded. The ERG device clogged several times which cost me but overall its been a good car through 150,000 miles. No recurring problems aside from (3) ERG problems.

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  Best High Mileage car there is - 2005 Honda Insight
  By TUN FLOG - March 26 - 2:14 am

  If you are looking for a high mileage vehicle, THIS IS IT. When the price of gas is over $3.00 a gallon and you consider how many times you have to have more than a two place car, you will see the value. The manual version is light and easy to move through the gates, and the extra control of the torque band of the engine is invaluable for extra high mileage. Expect 65 to 70 mpg at 70 mph. My best run...82.2 mpg!! (at 55)

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  A blast!!! - 2004 Honda S2000
  By anarky - March 26 - 2:00 am

  The S2000 has to be one of the best values on the market. The styling evokes images of speed when standing still. Inside a spartan, yet functional cockpit, the driver is completely surrounded by everything necessary to enjoy the driving experience. The engine is smooth all the way up to the 8000 rpm redline. Shifts are tight and precise. The shifter is a dream. Lane changes and turns are great. One warning, it is very easy to break out the rear end when going around a tight corner. The ride is even more fun topless. This car is fun to drive, looks great and is inexpensive compared to anything else that could possibly run with it.