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:

• 

  Great Fun Car - 2009 Honda Civic
  By reelalarm - March 9 - 9:26 pm

  This is my 6th Honda, first Hybrid. So naturally I like Hondas. I was surprised by the power, not like the original VW diesel of yesteryear. Car is fun to drive, but watch out dont get caught and wrapped up looking at the dashboard constantly showing data or you will be in an accident. I only have it for a couple weeks but the MPG is as good or better than the sticker rating. Usual Honda quality, not a thing wrong so far, there is no laundry list for the dealer to repair when first service come around.

• 

  So far, so good... - 2010 Honda Accord
  By jimmy - March 9 - 8:43 pm

  Just got the car. Got black on black, and it is really slick, especially at night. I got the 4-cyl because it was about 2K cheaper than that v6, and I really wanted navigation but that was about another 2K. After driving it, I was surprised at the zip it had as well as the quiet and smooth ride. The v6 is easy to differentiate when compared to 4cyl on most cars, but this 4cyl feels like most other v6s. Drive it and you will see. I did get the bluetooth/heated seats/xm/alloy wheel package, and I couldnt see myself buying the car without these features. The entertainment system in the car is just like the Acura system. It is easy to use, but takes a little getting used to.

• 

  2000 Civic,my first, but not last import - 2000 Honda Civic
  By Bullitt - March 9 - 5:36 pm

  I had never owned an import, and never bothered to listen to those who let me know how great their imports were... well now I tell others how good my import is. The mileage is amazing, and it doesnt comprimise the performance (granted this is not an 8 cyl, or the SI for that matter). It is very fun to drive. Above all else it is well built and still feels like brand new (30,000 miles into its life).

• 

  1999 Honda CRV - 1999 Honda CR-V
  By yapyap1011 - March 9 - 5:34 pm

  I bought my 1999 CRV used from a friend a year ago and it hasnt disappointed me yet. It has surprisingly roomy seating and everyone that rides in the backseat mentions this to me. The AWD is great in rainy conditions, I can feel the wheels stablize when I hit a puddle. It handles like a car, gas mileage is fair considering the AWD, but I do wish it had a little more power for the uphill climbs. Im just under 60,000 miles and no mechanical problems.

• 

  The Honeymoon is Over - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Disappointed - March 8 - 7:23 pm

  My first new car in years, I had researched this car online for months! The test drive was great and I loved the car until I drove it out of town (trip lasted 2 hours) and developed back pain. Thought I was just getting old but it never improved and I was amazed to see all the other drivers who had the same problem. Ive already been through 2 set of wiper blades after 6 months and had the weatherstripping around the back doors replaced once. And my headlights blink too! Im very sad - I loved my daughters Civic and the dealer service is fantastic, but even good service cant help the uncomfortable seats.

• 

  Odyssey is a good van - 2001 Honda Odyssey
  By James - March 8 - 4:48 pm

  This is a very stylish and comfortable van. It is great on long road trips. We go to Montana from Seattle every year and it is a pleasure to drive there. We took it on a long trip down the Pacific coast from Seattle, along the Oregon coast, through the redwoods in northern California. Then to San Francisco, down through Big Sur and to Los Angeles. We then went along the coast to San Diego. We returned to Seattle on I5 (we were tired of scenery and wanted to get home.) It was a pleasant, trouble free and comfortable trip. We use it daily to shop, take the kids to school, haul the dog, and go out to nice restaurants. It is one of the best cars I have ever owned.

• 

  Great Car - 2009 Honda Accord
  By Ray Miller - March 8 - 3:40 pm

  Had a 2005 Honda Accord exl w/ navi and loved it. Never had one problem. Bought this one in Apr of 09. Was hoping that the economy of running 3 cyl when 6 not needed would help the mileage (it didnt) over the 05 model. drove the 05 from midwest to west coast 4 times and averaged 30 mpg over 1500 mile trip each time. Just arrived in Nv. this year and we averaged 28 mpg. Other than disappointment with the mileage I love the car. I feel this car has better drivers seat comfort than the 05. I usually drive 850 miles first day on way to the west, and did have back problem with the 05. NONE with the 09.

• 

  Reliable - 1997 Honda Accord
  By Sid - March 8 - 3:25 pm

  Like the other posts say, the car is relibile. Only took it to the shop once.. to do a valve adjustment because I didnt want to do it myself. Everything else I worked on and its been running great. Theres so many things you can customize on this car. The service manual for this car is the best manual Ive ever seen. Shows you how to do everything in detail steps.. Honda is known for this.Power Windows can be a problem. Had to replace the driver side power window assembly twice. Power Windows are slow due the flimsy design of the pulley system. Too much tension being place on the cable.Over all its been a very good car.. Its taken a lot of abuse and keeps on working!

• 

  my first van! I love it - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By christi - March 8 - 2:11 pm

  we researched all of the best minivans before we purchased our Honda. We chose the Honda due to great crash rates, the roomy cabin, fuel economy. Other vans were very over priced on the sticker for the exact features we got. I dont think you should have to go in and haggle over $5,000 difference. I love my Honda!I would definitely recommend this van, in fact I have.

• 

  1998 Honda Accord EX with a Moon Roof - 1998 Honda Accord
  By E L Stair - March 8 - 2:00 am

  This is a fun car to drive, especially in the Spring and Fall. It is easy to maneuver, holds the road very nicely and is economical. Good for small families. Does not seat 5 adults comfortably. The center console takes up too much space. Leather seats would help seating and leaving. A quality automobile. Too close for a 6 footer in the drivers seat.