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 Honda Civic Si - 2017 Honda Civic
  By Neal Arrington - August 28 - 11:13 am

  It is a great car that is fun to drive. Handles terrific. As fast as a car should be without being to fast. Roomy and comfortable.

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  Love the Honda Civic Si - 2017 Honda Civic
  By Neal Arrington - August 28 - 11:13 am

  It is a great car that is fun to drive. Handles terrific. As fast as a car should be without being to fast. Roomy and comfortable.

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  Love the Honda Civic Si - 2017 Honda Civic
  By Neal Arrington - August 28 - 11:13 am

  It is a great car that is fun to drive. Handles terrific. As fast as a car should be without being to fast. Roomy and comfortable.

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  Not too shabby - 2012 Honda Civic
  By moondog75 - August 28 - 8:57 am

  Just got my Dyno Blue EX-L Civic about a week ago. Going from my 2009 Nissan Titan Crew Cab was a bit tough, but this is a great little car. The new design is very cool, and the tech gadgets are fun. The MPG is great, and the econ mode makes the car gutless, but its easy to switch off if you need more zip. If you are looking for a really nice commuter car or a great car for around town...this is it. I have had several Hondas in the past and they are reliable and well built. You cant go wrong with this little guy.

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  A winner - 1999 Honda Civic
  By KPH - August 28 - 2:00 am

  Purchased a Honda Civic because I was told that it was a great car...no kidding! I have done only normal maintenance to the car (tires, brakes, etc) and still drives like a dream! Will definately purchase another Honda when in the market.

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  ml320 - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By brewster - August 28 - 2:00 am

  My wife and I have owned a lot of cars and this one is the best! We had an ML320(junk mobile) before the Pilot and the Pilot was $10,000 less and better in every way.

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  honda - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By remlap6773 - August 28 - 2:00 am

  totally reliable furious acceleration and adequate handling cavernous interior able to haul everything on vacation even with 4 people in it.

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  I Love My Accord - 2000 Honda Accord
  By skyway - August 28 - 2:00 am

  Ive had my EX V6 2 door coupe since September, 2000 and I have loved it. I dont have one complaint about my car. Of course, I take great care of my car, so I dont let it run out of oil or water and I baby its exterior. My last car was also a Honda Accord - a 4 door Special Edition, 1997 - and I had nothing but perfect performance from it, as well.

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  Fun Fun Fun - 2000 Honda Accord
  By love my honda - August 28 - 2:00 am

  I bought my first honda before starting a Travel job. 2 weeks after I bought it I drove from Alabama to Denver. What a pleasure. It is extremely comfortable. I have the 2000 SE. Fuel economy is excellent. other than routine maintence I have had no problems. Some of the Dealerships I have had to deal with have been problematic, but not even that can turn me off to my car!!! I have since driven it from Denver, to Miami, and had the smoothest ride. Go HONDA!

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  What a Great First Car! - 2003 Honda Accord
  By TheWeatherman - August 28 - 2:00 am

  What else can I say about this car that hasnt been already said by Edmunds and other auto. publications. Ive owned the car since January 2003 and have loved every minute of it. The styling takes a little bit of time to get used to, but the interior is well done. Typical Honda fit and finish, supportive leather heated seats and the glowing instrumentation. Last but not least, the engine. 240hp! Smooth, with just a little hint of a muted growl when you get on it.