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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  Fantastic SUV, Im glad I purchased it. - 2015 Honda CR-V
  By Steven - March 2 - 3:40 am

  For me it was a toss up between a 2015-16 CR-V Touring AWD or a 2016 Hyundai Tucson Limited AWD. It was gut wrenching because my last 4 cars have been Hyundais. Both cars are truly neck and neck in almost every aspect. Although the Tucson had a few more extra features, such as heated rear seats and more refined technology. The two things that swayed me to a CR-V was, it had a much better ride. My Mom has a bad back and it was important to get a car she would be comfortable riding in when we spend time together. And Hyundai would not give me any incentives on a new purchase. So, having this car for two weeks now, I have no regrets. The voice commands and touch screen are painfully slow, and seriously Honda, no rotary volume knob!? I love how the rear seats fold several ways. I have no issues with vibration whatsoever. I was caught in absolutely terrible weather the other night, pounding rain and just nasty out. I felt very secure and safe in my CR-V, the AWD really does give peace of mind. Very happy with my decision. Although there are a few mis steps with this SUV, the package as a whole far outweigh and negatives I can point out. Next up is some window tint, summers are harsh here in Florida.

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  Love my Hybrid Accord - 2005 Honda Accord
  By Pamela - March 2 - 1:46 am

  One would never know that they are driving a Hybrid, except for the gas mileage. Smooth and quiet driving. Great power, even in mountain driving conditions. Everyone assumes that I paid much more for this vehicle. First Honda I have ever owned, but definitely will not be the last! Love it!

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  I love this Car! - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By Katie - March 2 - 1:36 am

  This car is great. with the AWD I dont have to choose when to put it into 4 wheel drive. I love the safety features. Having a baby I feel more comfortable with the side airbags. I love the room in the back with the stroller and at least 5 medium suitcases being able to fit as well. Best car ever! I would suggest it to anyone.

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  Great Van - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By hondacustomer - March 1 - 10:00 am

  Great Van!!

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  2004 HONDA CRV LX - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By cascadebob - March 1 - 10:00 am

  THIS IS THE FIFTH HONDA MY FAMILY HAS OWNED AND OVERALL THIS IS A PRETTY NICE ONE. A FEW MINOR THINGS I DONT LIKE BUT MY WIFE SWEARS SHE WILL DRIVE IT FOREVER.

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  Best Value for 4-cylinder midsize sedan - 2003 Honda Accord
  By grinder62 - March 1 - 10:00 am

  Great car. The manual transmission makes this a fun car to drive. That was a high priority for me when choosing a "practical" car as I have 3 kids. I considered the Camry as well (also a fine car), but rejected it because it is nearly impossible to get a manual transmission along with some of my other requirements (e.g., antilock brakes...theyre not standard on the Camry!).

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  Post SUV/Mini Van - 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour
  By Karter - March 1 - 12:30 am

  This is perfect for empty-nesters for parents with very young kids who dont yet need 3rd row seating, carrying soccer teams, etc... My wife and two 6ft teenage sons love it. I wanted to get my wife her first car versus SUV or mini van in about 15 years. It feels much bigger and more substantial than an Accord sedan. Very wide and log but in a good way. Not cheap or flimsy. Better ride, acceleration and performance than our old Pilot. Also less expensive than new Pilot. Especially when coming from an SUV or mini van, you MUST get the back-up camera (which is excellent even when snowing at night) or at least the dealer-installed back-up sensors. If you are leasing, the factory nav is better.

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  Good auto - 2009 Honda Accord
  By G Kellermeyer - February 28 - 12:25 pm

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  Honda HRV 2016 Ex - 2016 Honda HR-V
  By Sandeep reddy - February 28 - 6:24 am

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  Love the CR-V - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By Matt - February 28 - 3:26 am

  After owning this car for three weeks, my wife and I are still looking for excuses to drive somewhere. I have no idea what the other review with the stiff steering wheel is about. This car has some of the lightest steering Ive ever driven. I test drove 4 competing brands and the only other I even considered was the Toyota RAV4 because the 4 cylinder had a little more power. The interior is laid out well, seats are comfy. The ride is a little stiff over expansion joints, but the trade off is excellent handling in corners. Averaging 23.5 mpg in city driving, 30-33 on the highway. I will say the sound system could be better. It just doesnt seem like I can get it adjusted right.