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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  2018 CRV EXL Purchase - 2018 Honda CR-V
  By James Shoop - March 29 - 8:21 pm

  Look at 2018 Toyota RAV4

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  My first SUV! - 2005 Honda Element
  By djsan99 - March 29 - 3:20 am

  I bought this Elment this week and all I can say is I love it. I liked them when they came out in 03 and wanted to to trade in my 98 Accord. But after losing my civic I was able to get it. This mini SUV is great for trips, and for a small family.

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  2005 Accord - 2005 Honda Accord
  By maddbinky74 - March 28 - 6:50 pm

  I traded a 04 Mustang for the 05 Accord. I think this 2.4 5-speed has as much power as the Mustang. Its easier for my family to get in and out of, especially my husband. So far, Ive gotten 28 mpg compared to 21 mpg. I think this one is most certainly a keeper.

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  Honda CRV - 2017 Honda CR V
  By Nancy Y - March 28 - 4:55 pm

  Excellent value and quality

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  Best in class! - 2009 Honda Fit
  By SonerSD - March 27 - 12:23 pm

  Car is a blast to drive. The stiff suspension provides a smooth and stable ride with incredible steering response and accident avoidance capability. I am just laughing at people who complains about the harsh ride. The ride is not harsh it is just stiff, and that gives the Fit incredible handling and agility. I got the Taffeta White which is sleek and clean-look.

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  Buy this great car as used to save $ - 2005 Honda Accord
  By Yossi - March 27 - 2:46 am

  I bought this car as used car with only 4500 miles, this car has navigation system and xm radio. I paid $24,500 and spent another $200 to get the spare wheel and tool box of 2006 hybrid, yes of 2006, the special tire I bought at tire shop in much better price. Honda made a stupid mistake with 2005 hybrid on the spare wheel and corrected it on the 2006, however this is the most fun car I ever had, I know that milage is not even close to Toyota Prius but better than all my previous V6 cars, I am a tall guy 6Â’1, however the driver seat is very comfortable

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  Like my hybrid civic but waiting for mpg - 2008 Honda Civic
  By TEXAS LADY - March 26 - 3:53 am

  Our Civic started out averaging 34 mpg. It increased to a max of 43.4. Now it is down to about 35. We mostly drive in a semi-city situation, and we are not quick start and stop people, we drive conservatively. I am not excited about the 40-45 mpg claims at this point since we have yet to see that on a regular basis. Otherwise, we really like the little car.

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  A leader in the suv market - 2016 Honda Pilot
  By James - March 25 - 7:04 pm

  Shop around you can get a great deal if u look

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  First Time Honda Buyer - 2007 Honda Accord
  By windancer - March 25 - 4:13 pm

  For the middle of the road for features, the SE brings a lot to the table for a reasonable cost. The ride is a little stiffer than other models, but the sport 17in 50series tires take some of the blame, but pay back dividends in cornering.

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  Wonderful car, nice experience - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By KCBUYER - March 25 - 10:13 am

  I have been driving my CR-V LX AWD for 2 months, the performance is really wonderful, but a little bit more power would be perfect, I am very nervous when passing over or merging on the highway.