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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  Second Honda - 2007 Honda Fit
  By bayoujay - March 12 - 9:33 am

  My first car was a 90 Civic hatchback, so its been interesting comparing the similarities and differences. Much easier to enter/exit, more useable space, much more power (even with auto). Having a small child, the rear seat height and tall roof make it relatively easy to put him in and out of the car seat. Took looong roadtrip with my wife and child and enjoyed the comfort of "relax mode" even with the trunk full of stuff. Great highway mileage (37-40), but city mileage has been lackluster for such a small car (23-26). So far, that has been my biggest gripe.

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  Love it! - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By Our 1st Honda - March 12 - 4:13 am

  We researched and browsed for about 8 mos. and kept coming back to the CRV. Even waited until the new Kia Sportage came out. Were retiring and always have had 2 vehicles, pickup/van and a sedan. Wanted to be able to have only one,all-purpose vehicle. The Honda CRV does just that. Good hauling capacity, plus nice ameneties. No vehcile is perfect, but this one comes close. What it lacks, we dont miss. Add to that the resale/trade-in value of Honda vehicles, and you cant go wrong.

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  Just what I needed! - 2004 Honda S2000
  By notoverthehillyet - March 12 - 2:00 am

  In rating this vehicle, I kept the scores relative to what it is: a well built, high performance, great looking, seat of the pants sports car. No frills, just pure excitement on the right roads. If you are looking for a touring sports car to drive on Interstate highways, Id recommend a 350Z, G35 or Z4 over this car. I love it so far, and go through withdrawals on days that I dont drive it. BTW- its definitely made to be driven hard on good roads, but have a good radar detector with you.

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  practical performance car? - 1999 Honda Civic
  By VTNighthawk2006 - March 12 - 2:00 am

  Ive owned my 99 Si since august of 2003 w/ 63K and IÂ’ve never looked back. Its fun to drive, looks great, and takes corners like none other in its class. I also love the B16a engine and the fact that it could be a fuel miser or a performance machine, depending on what you want at the time. I used to own a 95 GS-R, and while i still think the Integra was sportier, the civic has much more room and 6x9 speakers in the back, so it balances out. Overall, a great car for anyone, but esp. for poor college kids like me who still have the need for speed. I plan on keeping it until it dies (200K+ hopefully).

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  Best Engineered Small SUV - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By newhondafan - March 12 - 2:00 am

  Have been extremely impressed with the vehicles performance, handling, braking and meticulous assembly quality. Handles like a car. Great view out. Great ergonomics and good visibility to the rear.

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  honda are excellent cars - 2004 Honda Civic
  By Kate Gower - March 12 - 2:00 am

  my honda is the first car I have ever owned. I am 18 years old and I seriously couldnt think of a better car. I get about 35 miles in the city and almost 40 on the highway. I am trying to get myself through college and this car is amazing for money saving. They are very reliable and very fun to drive.

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  Packed Full of Value - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Acecert - March 12 - 2:00 am

  Past 3 years, Each year I have purchased new cars: Jaguar S-Type, Lexus LS430 and Lexus SC-430. You pay dearly for high-end cars. I decided try out the 2004 Accord EX V6. The only things I am "giving up" from all my previous cars are memory seat, auto lights,(theres an off feature)and fog lights. I purchased the rear-view mirror w/ the sensor as an accessory. The car is quieter than my Lexus SC430 and rides smoother. I was getting 17 mpg and now have improved my mileage drastically. The interior is well designed for convenience and comfort. I plan to hang on to this car and if I do, what a testimony it will be for Honda.

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  Very Good Overall Value - 2006 Honda Accord
  By JFC - March 12 - 1:50 am

  Previously owned a 2003 Accord EXL V6, but switched to the 4 cyl. for nimbler handling/steering feel/fuel economy. Seriously considered the 2007 Camry XLE 4 cyl. & 2006 Hyundai Sonata V6 Limited, but the Accord won out for overall performance & styling, though the Sonata offered more car for the money and, in some areas, is superior to the Accord/Camry. The Accords appeal is in doing so many things well, without any serious flaws. The reliability & resale are added bonuses.

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  First truly new car and enjoying it! - 2009 Honda Fit
  By Jerry P. - March 12 - 1:46 am

  I spent a LOT of time looking at the cars in the this category and eventually couldnt find a better deal than the Fit Sport. I was able to get one at invoice. Couldnt find the exact one I wanted because finding a Sport manual w/Nav is like looking for the Loch Ness monster. Dont bother getting any simple options from the dealer, they are priced crazy. $150 for floormats (including install charge); found them on-line for $72. Ive had the car for going on 3 weeks and over all I am very pleased with it, and find I can live with the cars quirks.

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  crv! - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By mr. smartguy - March 11 - 10:00 am

  Everything is perfect. When I did my researh for a new car I looked at everything and the new 2002 HOnda CRV was a no brainer!