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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  Love the Car - 2005 Honda Accord
  By EDSCISSORS - December 15 - 10:00 am

  I just bought the 2005 exl accord, I love the car. The interior is the best, I love it and it is comparable to the more expensive luxury cars like BMW and AUDI. Ride is quite and smooth, the only thing I would change in the next model is give it some more power on the accelaration. It lacks the initial strength for takeoff, and it is understood because I have the inline.

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  LUV IT - 2017 Honda Civic
  By Nora Curtis - December 15 - 9:51 am

  it is a Great CAR

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  LUV IT - 2017 Honda Civic
  By Nora Curtis - December 15 - 9:51 am

  it is a Great CAR

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  LUV IT - 2017 Honda Civic
  By Nora Curtis - December 15 - 9:51 am

  it is a Great CAR

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  outstanding reliability - 1995 Honda Odyssey
  By Chris - December 15 - 3:37 am

  The Odyssey is a workhorse! Over 200,000 miles and the only reason I am no longer driving it is that I was hit by a dump truck (even then, I would not be surprised if it could keep running). Excellent mpg for a van and a more useful cargo carrier than most SUVs.

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  I like this car - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By Xifu Wang - December 14 - 10:56 pm

  Your recommandition are very usful!

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  2008 Accord, what a car! - 2008 Honda Accord
  By mcpdjohn - December 14 - 10:36 pm

  I spent a long, long time researching and reviewing the cars available to meet my needs of a family sedan. I considered many makes and models, both foreign and domestic. Based on my particular needs and taste, the 08 Accord won hands down. I have had the car for only 3 days and driven it about 200 miles. It is a truly remarkable vehicle. The V6 is so smooth and powerful, with no perceptible change as the motor switches back and forth between running on 6, 4, or 3 cylinders. The ride and handling are outstanding. The ivory leather interior is outstanding. The dash is very impressive with the burl wood trim. The quality is so high, I havent heard one squeak or rattle. I love it!

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  Honda Fit Sport is the BEST - 2009 Honda Fit
  By Friar Don - December 14 - 10:06 pm

  I have owned my 2009 Fit Sport for 3 1/2 months and must say this is one of the BEST cars I have ever had. The gas mileage is MUCH better than the sticker. The lowest mileage I have seen is 34 MPG (thats mostly city driving, too!). It "fits" me well, very comfortable, lots of room for storage, handles like a pocket rocket and turns on a dime. The folks at Sunny King Honda took excellent care of me and treated me like an intelligent buyer, not just a "monthly payment". The service department has been tremendous, their level of care and professionalism is outstanding. I would suggest BOTH this car and this dealership if youre in the market for true Honda Quality. The FIT is GO!

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  my new Honda minivan - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By nicole falzone - December 14 - 8:46 pm

  My experience with my new Honda minivan has been incredibly positive. My interior has a family entertainment system. It did not come with leather seats but, it doesnt matter to me. This van is great!! It handles well and the engine has a lot of power. The engine runs EXTREMELY quiet.

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  68 with plenty of room to spare - 2003 Honda Element
  By Massachusetts - December 14 - 6:38 pm

  My favorite thing is that it has a manual transmission. The car rides great in the snow and rain, the stereo Kicks and head room is no problem at all, Could use an inch or two of leg room. If you are thinking of getting a 4WD and want an easy to keep clen car this is for you.