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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  Good Truck - 2009 Honda Ridgeline
  By moman - February 20 - 4:01 pm

  This truck is a replacement for my 2007 Tundra. Not as big however it is fun to drive and great in the snow. MPG is 14 City and 18 Hgwy however I expect it to get better with more miles on it. After 3 bumpers, three radios, new tires, drive belt, and battery on Tundra, it was worth giving up all the compliments on the Tundras appearance to get a quality truck.

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  Winner of a car - 1991 Honda Accord
  By Denny - February 20 - 3:57 pm

  Bought it new in 1991, Buy tires when they wear out, changed oil and filter approximately every 3K. Routine maintenance done as it need some, big failure was trans computer but found a rebuilt and changed it myself for $175.00.I think it will soon go to my grand daughter.

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  Very sataified customer - 2001 Honda Accord
  By Mr. Murray - February 20 - 9:47 am

  Owned since new and with 196k miles have only done routine maintenance. Replaced a 1987 Legend with 265k miles just wanted new parts but in ran fine when I sold it. I stay on top of all maintenance items and have replaced the timing belt and alternator but no tranny failure .. always change fluid ever 50k. At nearly 200k the car is still "tight" with no rattles and handles like a sports car rather than a sedan. Cant wait to get my next new one but since its only about 1/2 thru its life it will be a few years. Its not for sale but if it were I hear the resale is very good. I never miss an oil change or other filter changes Im sure this makes a difference on a Honda or any other.

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  Its been fun - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Baka Otaku173 - February 20 - 1:35 am

  Overall my car has served me well over the course of 52K miles in 5 or so years. I only had to get new tires (with alignment), 4 new brake pads, and regular oil changes (Free of charge because of promo). My ride is well excellent with only me in the car, but when it comes to 4, the car becomes a little soggy. Overall, its been an honor owning my accord.

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  Insight review 2 months - 2010 Honda Insight
  By Francine - February 19 - 9:21 am

  I fell in love with the overall car and its price made it affordable. Presently not driving that much, and with the cold weather only getting about 37.6 mpg. However, I have been told that during the Spring/Fall mileage goes up dramatically with the temperature. So far, so good.

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  Luv My Odyssey - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By luvbigdogs - February 18 - 2:48 am

  This has been the best vehicle for reliability, safety, & comfort Ive ever owned. Unfortunately yesterday my husband was hit in the front end, which totaled out the car [when a wheel, not just a tire, is ripped off plus the front end is hit so hard it pushes it back 6", that car is a goner]. I plan to get another Odyssey because its such a great vehicle, even if I do hate the shift position of the gear knob.

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  love it! - 2010 Honda Fit
  By celticwolf122 - February 17 - 1:23 pm

  I love the interior design of the cargo space. even after folg the rear seats I can fit......lol get it......things under the seats. This car corners like a bat out of hell. The acceleration is a little lagging but it is compensated but a sense of control in every corner. I love the stereo system and the fuel econom is great. The best car under $15000 (that is of course the base model) I hope to see future base models come with cruise control. Way to go honda. btw this is my first honda and I think I may be hooked on the brand.

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  Excellent Car - 1992 Honda Accord
  By HondaLover3 - February 17 - 5:51 am

  Loved the Car bought at 100,000 miles and drove it for a couple years with no problems, just reg maint. Oil change tune up etc, sold it when I hit 210,000 miles for a newer sport accord. Car driving like brand new when I sold it.

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  Excellent Car - 1997 Honda Civic
  By HondaLover3 - February 17 - 5:26 am

  I purchased my 1997 Honda Civic LX Sedan 6 months ago after my 1994 Honda Accord EX-L Sport Couple was totaled by someone pulling out in front of me. I love this civic it is my 3rd Honda it had 209000 miles on it when I bought it and just rolled over 218000 miles in 6 months. The car had one previous owner, needs a paint job but other than that it has original engine and clutch and transmission still drives as its brand new. get around 320 miles per tank. Just regular maint done since I have bought it, oil changes and brake pads. I LOVE THIS CIVIC! as excellent as my dads 95 Acura integra with original motor and power train (automatic) that has 670,000 on it and still drives like new!

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  The little Rocket - 2004 Honda S2000
  By Honda Kid - February 17 - 12:16 am

  This little car handle like a rocket.I own a 2007 Honda Si, this car handle well, but not as good as the S2000. Well, if you want to hear this little rocket vtec kicks, shift to first gear and accelerate until you hit 8000 rpm and shift to second gear and will will know what I am talking about. Dont believe me! Try it for yourself.