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 - 2016 Honda Accord
  By richard stokes - September 16 - 6:49 pm

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  New to me, 2014 Honda CR-V AWD - 2014 Honda CR-V
  By Nicole Paul - September 16 - 10:55 am

  I bought this pre-owned, 2014 Honda CR-V for $16,900. I think it was a fair price. I didnt want the leather package and the navigation system of the EX_L was overwhelming to me but loved the options of the EX: Power moonroof, nice sound system, and enough electronic ports to make me very happy. There seems to be a hitch in the automatic transmission going from 1st to 2nd gears, but Ill have the dealership look into that. After having the car for 3 weeks, I drove it from NC to D.C. The comfort and driving were great. The Bluetooth works great and the sound system was really nice. Id definitely recommend this vehicle for Honda lovers moving from a smaller vehicle to something more roomy.

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  Smart Buy - 2007 Honda Accord
  By Jake - September 16 - 5:33 am

  My 2007 Accord EX-L V6 has run great since I bought it 6000 miles ago. It has the looks and the performance I was looking for. I bought this as a gas-saver, and compared to my full-size truck, it definitely does that. All around, the 07 Accord has everything I was looking for, and I would highly recommend it.

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  Honda Element - 2004 Honda Element
  By Georgia49 - September 16 - 2:00 am

  Have really enjoyed this car even though Im older than the target demographics.

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  glad I switched - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By safer now - September 16 - 2:00 am

  Ive had 3 Ford Explorers, but never felt safe in the rain, esp. the last one.The Pilot sat down onto the road better, drove it in the rain and it really hugged the highway, so bought it immediately.AWD is responsive to road condtions.Good brakes in an emergency without the shudder like some other cars. Roomy feel of larger interior, even for 6"4" husband. Gas milage is 19.5/18.5. Solid doors, easy to use back hatch door.Easy fold seats in back 2 rows. Comfortable 2nd row seating, even for adults on long trips.

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  The White Honda - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By Wilheiss1 - September 16 - 2:00 am

  I was not in the market for a new car since all I have purchase for many years were good used cars or trucks. I went to visit my daughter and son inlaw in VA this past summer. They were interested in a Honda 2000. They dumped me at the lot while they went out riding around. I had been looking at a Toyato Rav, so I checked out the Honda CRV. Then to my suprise I found the pilot. I did a lot of research for the next couple of months and ordered one.

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  A keeper - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By Merre - September 16 - 2:00 am

  After a years time Im still very happy with my Pilot. It handles so well and has a roomy interior without being cavernous. I feel I can whip around in it -- not like driving a bus or monster SUV. Very smooth ride also. Two people who drove my Pilot bought one.

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  Pilot - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By Heidi07 - September 16 - 2:00 am

  I love my Pilot. It has the quality,comfort,style and is so much fun and easy to drive. I also like the space. I found while looking the leg room was limited in other SUVs we are a tall family and sitting in the back is no problem.

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  Great vehicle - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By sportsmom-M - September 16 - 2:00 am

  Best riding car, oops SUV on the road.

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  dependable - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By techie - September 16 - 2:00 am

  this vehicle is well equipt and very dependable especially during winter time. Comfortable and safe to drive. Highly recommended to everyone who is thinking of buying an SUV.