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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  Great Car - 2003 Honda Accord
  By David - December 14 - 1:56 am

  Ok, so ive had my accord for about 3 years now and ive never had a problem with her. She works just as good as the day I bought her with no work needed. I love my car and I will keep it forever.

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  09 Honda Fit - 2009 Honda Fit
  By Jeff - December 13 - 3:06 am

  Great little car, fun to drive and great gas mileage. Just hit 900 miles average 38 mpg. Honda has another winner. Miss some of the toys in our other Hondas.

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  No conflict with an Accord - 2006 Honda Accord
  By max508 - December 13 - 12:26 am

  Purchased the Accord in Nov. 2005 using the Edmunds referral program. The Accord Ex 4 cyl. auto w/ leather and nav. is a middle class Mercedes without the reliability problems. The ride is smooth, climate control is flawless, the radio produces rich sounds, the interior is as attractive and refined and as comfortable as cars costing $10K more. On a recent trip south, the Accord recorded 34.5 mpg on regular gas. Class, comfort, and economy--love it!

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  Not your average truck - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By Steve - December 12 - 4:53 pm

  The new Ridgeline is a very well designed truck, with many great extras. It does not feel like a truck when you are driving it because it is so comfortable, and a smooth ride. The storage room in the cab, and the added trunk are wonderful and give the extra storage that one might need for any occasion. The only bad thing is that my wife keeps trying to take it. There are also a lot of people who stop me to ask questions, or just stare, and while driving, they really shouldnt be staring at the car next to them.

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  No Regrets!!! - 2007 Honda Accord
  By Brenda - December 12 - 10:43 am

  I looked at both the 07 SE Camry and Accord. I was more impressed by the Camry stylish body. I purchased the Accord primarily because of the interior features: More horsepower and torque, both audio and cruise on the steering wheel, standard 6 CD changer, rear seat folding with lockable pass through, and standard security system. Also, Honda cars are very reliable. I drove a 95 Honda Civic for 9 years. I am getting between 27 to 29 combined miles. One of my favorite feature is the Oil Life Display. Currently, I have 5000 miles on my new new Honda and the Oil Life is 30%.

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  DO NOT buy this car without Navigation - 2006 Honda Civic
  By kevywevy - December 12 - 4:26 am

  Im not even through my first tank of gas and thought I would write a review. Heck, if something happens, I will write another one later. Whatever you do, do NOT buy this car without Navigation. It is simply spectacular. Kinda like TIVO in that once you have it youll wonder how you ever got along without it. It talks to you, you can ask it questions, it tells you where to go, you are never lost, and its all really quite fun. The interior is delicious and the exterior is head turning at the moment. Great car!

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  Great Car - 2008 Honda Accord
  By HOWIE - December 11 - 10:53 pm

  I was driving a MB, but it was always in the shop. It also was getting only 13 Miles per gal. I bought it new in 2000, but consider my new accord an upgrade.

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  Gas mileage got better - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By Dowopman - December 11 - 6:46 pm

  Some people didnt like the gas mileage of there new Honda vans. I didnt like it either at first, But it has gotten a lot better now that its breaking in. Just went to Florida from upstate NY and at one time went 500 miles and still had almost a 1/4 of a tank of gas and avg between 70 & 75mph.

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  Love it! - 2018 Honda Odyssey
  By Julie B - December 11 - 12:41 pm

  We have had it one month and still getting used to it a bit, but generally love it so far. This is our second Honda Odyssey. The only two things that Ive noticed so far is that going from 1st to 2nd gear its not completely smooth. It doesnt really bother me but once you are past 2nd gear its as smooth as can be which is why Ive noticed a slight difference. The second thing is the entertainment system, when using XM radio, it will periodically jump to a station upon starting the car that I did not select (ex: Country or Korean Radio). I have found that I have to challenge myself to use the steering wheel controls as the touch panel your eyes get drawn to it longer than you probably want from the road to make selections. There are several features that you cannot engage in while driving & I understand the safety precautions driving this, but it is slightly frustrating.

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  Great Vehicle for Illinois Driving - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By Ken Kraus - December 11 - 6:13 am

  We like the all year durability of the the Honda CR-V. Its perfect for the Chicagoland climate.