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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  BUY ONE - 2002 Honda Accord
  By love-it1191 - January 27 - 7:27 pm

  Bought this ex v6 from a local dealer about a year ago with 54k on the odometer. Today there is just over 90k. Ive gone on several trips to the mountains and MI over the year. The v-6 has great acceleration, the traction control comes in handy with this powerhouse. The tranny at times hesitates and has issues finding the gear it wants but thats only when its cold. The ride is great, in the twisty roads of the mountains it handles like a sports car but smooth like glass on the highway. I would suggest this car to anyone, in the past year and 36k later no issues what so ever, plan on running this one into the ground.

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  Goodbye Jeep Liberty Hello CRV - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By b-rice - January 27 - 5:16 pm

  After driving a Jeep Liberty for 1.5 years we decided to trade up to a Honda. We constantly remind ourselves of the wise choice we made. We have now owned it for 8 months and 10k miles and still love it as much as we did when we drove it off the lot. It is very sporty, practical and for the most part comfortable. The 4 cyl engine should produce a more efficient mpg but 24-27 is almost double what we were getting in our V6 Liberty with almost as much power. The LX is very basic, but it gets you from point A to point B while having fun. I never realized how many were on the road until we bought it. Havent regretted our purchase one bit.

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  Best all around vehicle - 2007 Honda Pilot
  By aldante - January 27 - 3:27 pm

  This car has lived up to all my versatile needs. I have a tow package, roof racks, and I feel like I can go anywhere. I added Michelin cross- terrain tires and it has added to road stability. My only complaint is city road noise. It just seems something could be done about that. As for gas mileage I get 14 in city because most of my trips are less then 6 miles. Last road trip though was 650 miles and I got 23.4 mpg. I am very happy with that. I am very happy with emergency steering and handling in poor weather. I had to veer on the freeway (gont 65) to miss a bumper in the road this is a safe car. I cant believe its turning capability also. I am very happy.

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  Love my CR-V - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By Vicki - January 26 - 6:56 pm

  Love it! What a fun ride. This is our first CR-V. Initially we werent looking for an SUV but after I test drove the CR-V I was hooked. The all wheel drive is awesome on the snow. Love the handling and the functionality. The gas mileage is pretty decent. I get about 25-26 MPG highway and about 23-24 MPG city. It really depends on how you drive it. MPG indicator gauge can help with that. It could have a little more pickup. I notice it mainly on the highway but you can put it in D3 by pushing the button on the side of the gear to give you extra pick up. Overall, great car.

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  Love This Car - 2010 Honda Insight
  By cgold - January 25 - 11:10 pm

  Just got mine a few days ago. They made me a great deal. I was fortunate to get the EX with Navigation. The nav system is fun to use, especially when it doesnt understand what you are saying. Maybe I should try Japanese. The gas mileage has exceeded our expectations. It is fun to drive and looks good. I hope Honda is as good as their reputation.

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  loved the car - 2005 Honda Civic
  By khollen - January 24 - 4:13 pm

  I bought this car because I was looking for something reliable, economical, and with good value. I found the perfect purchase in this civic, and loved every minute of driving it. I got into a pretty bad head-on collision after having the car for about 5 months, and walked out with minor bruises and injuries. The crumple zones were designed flawlessly and even though my car was totaled it protected me perfectly. I would definitely recommend this car to anyone.

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  Best Vehicle I have ever owned - 2007 Honda Element
  By hatchva - January 24 - 12:00 pm

  I have put 55,000 miles on this car and it has been a pleasure. The Element handles extremely well in snow and out-performed 4wd vehicles on a recent ski trip in the West Virginia mountains. I drove the ELement to Miami and back and found the seats to be very comfortable and the open cabin a definite plus. My only complaint is that I had to replace the tires at 30,000 miles. I put Michelin tires on and they have 25,000 miles on them with very little wear. The Element makes corrections in snow and ice that make driving in extreme conditions safe. On the beach the Element handled well, although I didnt push it and enter the soft sand. Overall, an outstanding utility vehicle!!!

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  Nice car, great mileage, couple issues - 2009 Honda Accord
  By kbuicker - January 24 - 10:58 am

  Bought a new Honda with 500 miles (semi demo). I love the car so far. Weve owned a 2003 Accord since it was new, 98k miles, and only had to replace the AC compressor(recently). This 09 is great, here are a couple issues. The brakes squeak! My dads 08 does as well. Honda says its the #1 complaint with the car and Honda Engineering is working on a resolution. The glove box does not line up correctly when closed. The interior noise level is a little high, especially the noise from the trunk area coming into the cabin. Other than that, its an excellent car, tight build, great mileage, nice looks.

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  Dirt Bike Friendly - 2009 Honda Ridgeline
  By Fun Truck - January 23 - 11:57 pm

  Bought this truck to carry two Honda dirt bikes in the back and to tow a tent trailer all at the same time. I love this truck and it does everything I need a truck to do and more. Plus it is a Honda with outstanding quality, fantastic ride, and great gas mileage for a bigger truck. I test drove all the new trucks before buying and the Honda Ridgeline was by far the best truck for my lifestyle. I live in snow country and the AWD system works great. Hondas design for utility and storage is excellent.

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  Great Car!! - 1999 Honda Civic
  By Holajn - January 23 - 8:45 pm

  I purchased this car in October 2009. At first I had to replace the exhaust system since it was rusting. 375 dollars later it is all better and this car is running great! I am a student and drive less than 30 miles per week, I get such great mileage. For a 1.6 4-cyl the engine is very quick. The V-TEC really helps too. I would recommend this car to anyone who wants outstanding reliability and great gas mileage!