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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  Honda Rules - 2008 Honda Civic
  By Honda Guy - November 17 - 3:06 pm

  This is my 20 something Honda since 1977. I have had Hondas that I have driven 200,000 miles and no Honda has ever given me a major mechanical issue. If you follow the factory recommended service they will run a very long time. I have enjoyed every Honda that I have owned. This car is stylish and fun to drive. Im 5" 11" and weigh about 220 lbs. Im not a small guy and the car is extremely comfortable. I like the design of the instrument cluster. I dont have to lower my eyes from the road to know my speed. The EX comes with a whole lot of accessories and gadgets that you would expect on a $30,000 or more car.

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  Love my cr-v - 2013 Honda CR-V
  By Pat McGowan - November 17 - 2:13 pm

  This car is very reliable. Derides nicely. It just looks good. The one negative is that it only has one glove box. My 2008 headed to glove boxes.

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  Honda - 1998 Honda Accord
  By Daniel Beck - November 17 - 10:00 am

  Great car.. very reliable

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  Great Car!!! - 1991 Honda Accord
  By jefooo - November 17 - 10:00 am

  My car has over 165K in miles and continues to have as much power as the first day I bought it, plus, it starts on the first crank. Mechanically sound vehicle! My friend has the same car with 318K in miles. It drives the same as mine. I am just compoletely impressed with my car and every other HOnda I have ever owned!

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  Solid and powerful, but pricey - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By DanJ - November 17 - 10:00 am

  I was surprised that the exterior looks more muscular and athletic than the most photos show. It has a more masculine look than the Highlander. The Pilot EX interior wasnt as attractive as the Highlander Limited - and the dealer-installed faux wood is about $600 extra. Still, the interior was comfortable - although perhaps more designed for a larger-framed person than is the Toyota. It was very roomy inside for a mid-sized - with the 2nd & 3rd row flat, the storage space was cavernous.

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  excellent job honda - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By ahondafan - November 17 - 10:00 am

  this vehicle is awesome. there is a premium above msrp, but compared to everything else on the market this is a steal. i took delivery of my taffeta white/fern pilot ex-l 5/31, and i cant get anough of it. in fact i think my neighbor wants want too.

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  Nice Car! - 2001 Honda Civic
  By BD - November 17 - 10:00 am

  This is my first Honda after having 4 Corollas and although the ride in the Corolla is a bit smoother, they all rusted out! I dont see as many rusted Hondas. I live in the North East where the winters are harsh and lots of road salt is used. When I bought this car it was between this and a 2000 Eclipse. The Eclipse is a very sporty car and it was almost the same price as the Honda but it was not certified and the warranty I got with the Honda is exceptional. I have 2 years bumper to bumper and the 7 year powertrain warranty. Cant beat it. I wanted sporty but opted for practicality. Im old.

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  Its great.......but - 2001 Honda Civic
  By cjmc - November 17 - 10:00 am

  Yes, its fun to drive and the gas mileage is wonderful, BUT Ive had to replace the radio twice and now my air conditioning in not working. Shouldnt happen to a car thats just one year old! I wont buy another Honda.

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  Frugal Fun - 2002 Honda Civic
  By Furgz - November 17 - 10:00 am

  My choice came down to this car or the 2003 Toyota Corolla. Decision became easy because there are few Corollas on dealers lots. On the other hand, my local Honda dealer had the models and colors I wanted. They made me an offer I couldnt refuse. Overall, I am satisfied.

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  A car built for $2.00/gallon gas! - 1993 Honda Civic
  By moboland - November 16 - 10:51 pm

  I have documented with my last 2 fill- ups average mpg of 40 miles per gallon. Awesome. She aint that pretty but she is fuel efficient. And peppy with a 5-speed manual transmission.