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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  I LOVE this car!!! - 1995 Honda Accord
  By asp - September 10 - 10:00 am

  We have had this car for over 7 years and have NO problems with it. The ONLY problem is that my husband believes it will run forever and hell never have to buy me a another new car again. Really we are looking at buying a new car, but have no intentions of selling this one. This is the best car Ive ever owned. Were planning on saving it for our children to drive as their first car (theyre only 6 and 3 years old). Theres no doubt in my mind it will last that long!!

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  REO - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By lee perry - September 9 - 7:19 am

  Our Honda CR-V has impressive responses, actually took some getting used to, everything is very tight and precise. The speedometer is right on the mark. The engine is peppy and mountain driving has little effect on it. The interior is especially roomy. Love the dual temperatures , including the rear seating area. Disappointed the passenger seat did not have electronic adjustments like the drivers, BIG DISAPPOINTMENT, but we hear that was remedied in the 2017 model. The ride isnt bad at all for the size of the vehicle and being all wheel drive, it is probably the most comfortable in its class. However, our former car was large, Q45 sedan and it had a great ride and amazing seats, so I am having to adjust, a little disappointed but my husband has no problem with the CR-Vs ride. The rear seat room is amazing! The cargo area is perfect and we love the way the rear seats fold down easily with a pull of a lever. We love the look of our 2016, glad we didnt wait to see the 2017 change, while subtle, we prefer the 2016. On a mountainous 400 mile trip we averaged 29 miles per gallon on a new engine. Over all we are 5 star pleased with this vehicle and highly recommend it.

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  Honda got it right with the HR-V - 2016 Honda HR-V
  By John Warren - September 8 - 9:37 pm

  After one year, my comments after one month still apply: Subcompact exterior, SUV interior, very good acceleration and performance and fun to drive with 6 speed manual transmission, a true value for a quality car with tremendous versatility, LX well equipped and easy to figure out audio and controls - preferred it to the EX. Look forward to driving this car for many years.

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  w/ the 5 speed=perfect daily driver - 1998 Honda Accord
  By Nate - September 8 - 9:42 am

  Clear coat peel is a major problem with this particular year and model Honda, first year of water born clear coat as opposed to oil. Motor itself is bulletproof reliable, think AMC/Jeep 4.0, Ford 4.6, GM 3.8, etc. These motors are that rugged! Use a high quality oil/filter and change them every 5k miles and these things will literally run forever. Do yourself a favor for both drivings sake, as well as stated reliability, and find yourself one equipped with the 5 speed manual transmission. Currently at 214,000 miles and climbing on mine. Dollar for dollar you will not find a better daily driver. First year for the transponder key which is huge on these cars in terms of theft deterrent. My only gripe is the lack of leg room in the front seats for plus 6 footers, and the lack of availability of a V6/manual trans Sedan in this generation.

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  Best Civic yet?? - 2007 Honda Civic
  By Basset3 - September 8 - 9:10 am

  This is the first Civic Ive owned; I owned 4 Accords in the past and all were very reliable. The Civic is now the size of the older Accords, which I like. Great gas mileage, peppy little 4- cylinder and handling like a sports car.

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  Quality!! - 2005 Honda Element
  By Tim - September 8 - 1:26 am

  Cant find any thing wrong...perfect paint and body alignments. VERY practical car. You either luv it or hate it as far as looks.And Honda dependability. Tim

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  Great SUV - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Chris_P - September 6 - 11:13 pm

  I bought a Sage EX-L. It has been a great vehicle. Road and engine noise is minimal. The new standard CD changer and glass power moonroof makes it even better. It is like an MDX for less and it runs on regular unleaded. I would definitely recommend it!

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  Hot little honda - 2017 Honda CR-V
  By RMT - September 6 - 1:27 pm

  Its a great well built car, with several levels of options and vehicle. I would recommend one if you are looking for a peppy little turbo!

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  Very Satisfied - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Paul Lavoie - September 6 - 12:26 am

  Look at most SUVs and Vans. Found the Pilot to be Elegant, Powerful, Responsive and great fun to drive. Im still trying to let my wife drive it.

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  4x 4gotten - 2004 Honda Element
  By Agent Orange - September 5 - 10:00 am

  Very comfortable for trips and the 4wheel drive works seemlessly. The neoprene seats were surprisingly cool .It is great to put your bicycle inside and upright! Quiet and very nimble. We love the rear tailgate arrangement for loading and packing.