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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  fun and comfortable - 2006 Honda Civic
  By sandcanyon - November 21 - 11:06 pm

  I have had no problems - it is comfortable, completely reliable in hot and cold weather, and very fun to drive -- trying to get the highest mpg is a fun challenge (when Im not in a hurry).

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  06 Honda accord coupe - 2006 Honda Accord
  By JIMBO - November 21 - 10:00 pm

  I truly love the vehicle. Extremly well built. If there was a con to the vehicle it would be slight road noise.

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  Love my CRV - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By rmking - November 21 - 5:30 pm

  was initially looking at the new HRV but for the incentives, overall cargo space and look and feel of the CRV I received much much more. Very happy with my car.

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  Best car I ever had - 1997 Honda Civic
  By SMHuskie - November 21 - 2:00 am

  7th year with this car. I bought it new in 97 and have put 160000 miles on it. It has never had a major problem and still runs like it has 30,000 miles on it. Still no creeks, rattles or clunks and the car is still more firm feeling than any American car I ever owned. I made it 90,000 miles on the original tires, 150,000 miles on the original brakes (and still had some left to go). Im itching for a new car but this one acts like it can go another 100,000 without breaking a sweat. Couldnt ask for a better mode of transportation- cheap on gas, insurance, tires and Ive put 10 lumber in a 2 door coupe (thanks to the 60/40 fold down). Just awesome!

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  No regrets!! - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By lung doc - November 21 - 2:00 am

  Lives up to the hype. Looked at Ford Explorer and Chevy Tahoe. Honda handles better, gets better mileage and comes in at a cheaper price. Interior layout is great. Everything is right where you want it -- this is clearly a very well thought out vehicle.

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  Hop on in and come for spin !!! - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By AOK - November 21 - 2:00 am

  I have been desiring a new vehicle for at least 2 years. Was driving a 1995 Honda Passport. I loved it when it was new but it was getting pretty long in the tooth recently. I was looking at the newer small sized SUVs (Ford, Mazda, Range Rover) and couldnt see spending all of that money for very little vehicle. Then, Honda Pilot came along and I was very interested. Styling is dull to unique in the front but absolutely does it for me from behind. Ive had the vehicle for 600+ miles and it is far and away the best vehicle I have ever owned. It is truly a testament to Hondas engineering Dept.

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  Cant Go Wrong - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By Hammybone - November 21 - 2:00 am

  If you want a little SUV, this must be it. Its our first and I am impressed by everything about my 2003 EX. Great power, handling and brakes. Headroom is a pleasant surprise, also. Looked at the Tribute, RAV and Escape. No buyers remorse for me.

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  2003 Honda Odyssey - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By erholl - November 21 - 2:00 am

  The Odyssey is an awesome vehicle that has amazing comfort, style and dependability. Worth every penny!

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  ITS A HONDA,/ E-NUFF SAID - 2003 Honda Civic
  By BIZZY_77357 - November 21 - 2:00 am

  I LOVE EVERYTHING ABOUT THE CAR AND THERE IS ALOT AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT, WOULD LIKE TO SEE MORE ON THE PERFORMANCE SIDE, AND ONE MORE TIME ITS A HONDA

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  Great car at a great price - 2017 Honda Accord Hybrid
  By JJ - November 20 - 7:41 am

  I computed this car would save our family about $5,000 over the 150,000 miles we plan to put on it. I guess the 2018 models are coming in, because we got it for just over $24,000, including the doc fee. This makes it a better deal than the nonhybrid, and helping save the environment a bit.