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 - 2018 Honda CR-V
  By Tom Barnitt - November 19 - 4:31 pm

  The Honda CRV EX-L went way above my expectations. I reviewed many cars and test drove the Toyota RAV4 as well as the Nissan Rouge. There is no comparison. The 2018 Honda is a solid well built vehicle. Ive owned numerous cars and the technology and ease of the use of Honda Link is simple. Great Job by Honda

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  Upgraded to a 2013 Accord from a 2012 Civic - 2013 Honda Accord
  By ejje1 - November 19 - 4:12 am

  Wow, what a great car the new Accord is. I was so dissatisfied with the cheap feeling 2012 Civic I very quickly traded it in. Honda blew it with that car, but Im happy to say Im pleased with Honda again. The Accord is comfortable, get close to Civic gas mileage. Get the Accord by all means.

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  Best Option For The Price - 2008 Honda Civic
  By jonjae - November 19 - 3:10 am

  A Honda is a Honda so you can expect to get efficiency and economy. The design inside and out is the best that I can find in this price range. Well laid out interior controls are user friendly. The split dash is a plus in my opinion. I can see the speedometer without taking my eyes off of the road. I compared the Civic to the Corolla, Mazda 3 and Toyota Matrix. The Mazda and Matrix just didnt have the fuel economy that I was looking for. Anything that averages 30+ mpg is what I needed. The Corolla passes the fuel economy test but many editor reviews seem to be disappointed with the Corollas performance overall. Im not impressed with the exterior styling of the Corolla either.

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  Very nice car - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Tom - November 19 - 2:33 am

  Ive only had the car about one week, but so far so good. I love the interior layout and comfort. The center console is a bit overwhelming at first, but it gets better as you get used to it. The navigation and bluetooth are awesome. Highly recommend getting that option if possible. The ride is smooth and quiet. Im very happy thus far.

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  Honda Element - 2004 Honda Element
  By C. Hart - November 19 - 2:00 am

  I am a tried and true Honda driver. I had and accord, 2 CRVs, and my Element. You cant beat a Honda. I believe they are the most reliable car on the road. The Element is a great vehicle - Fun to drive and very durable. Tons of room. My fifteen year old son is 6 foot 2 inches tall and still has room to stretch his legs in the back seat and more than enough head room. He also enjoys the sunroof over the back seat. For a small active family this is the vehicle to have. The drive and comfort level outways the CRV.

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  My Review of the Element - 2004 Honda Element
  By Charmange Chii - November 19 - 2:00 am

  its a lot of fun in a small car

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  Honda Odyssey - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Tidapomo - November 19 - 2:00 am

  The odyssey is a great vehicle. Has plenty of power and manueverability. Honda should come out with better prices on its entertainment systems because they are way overpriced compared to what is on the market.

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  Odyssey rocks since Previa is gone - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By MetaJohn - November 19 - 2:00 am

  Odyssey is the King of the Class: Familyroom sedans. It has way more power than it needs unless you have a boat or travel trailer. For most of us thats not an issue, and wed love to trade 50 hp for 5 more MPGs! The Odyssey has great road feel, decent cornering, and will stop quickly enough. The TCS (Traction Control System) adds fractionally to road holding on bad roads but not nearly as much as either rear wheel or four wheel drive would. The sound system is very good. The heating and cooling work well, and quietly. The new front seat only seat heaters are a nice touch. The new leather seat covers and interior is very well appointed.

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  Best Mini Van Ever - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Tking - November 19 - 2:00 am

  This is our 3rd Honda Odyessy. I owned a 1996 Model for 7 years, traded it in for a 2003, which I wrecked (oops) and traded it in for a 2004, which I LOVE! Rides great, has plenty of room and excellent gas milage. I am a BIG fan of Hondas. I also owned a 94 Accord...

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  very happy - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By mycar1 - November 19 - 2:00 am

  i love the vechile. its like a van on the inside and looks like a truck. very comfortable and roomy. would like more gadgets......its basic.