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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  never again - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By jbhiker - November 9 - 5:08 pm

  2002 Honda CRV-this is the worst vehicle mechanically we have ever owned. We are getting rid of itBrakes came unglued at 37000 miles, air conditioning compressor has failed twice, air bag sensor went, alternator went, brakes again. major repairs all and to significant safety systems. Honda has refused to buy back vehicle- and while they have helped with parts after much fighting with them basic message is you are on your own if you dont have an extended warranty. In addition gas mileage is less than advertised and handling in the snow is just marginal. Good riddance

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  Quality car, fun to drive, reliable - 2007 Honda Accord
  By Noel Ness - November 9 - 4:50 pm

  Driving at 68-70 mph I average around 35 miles to the gallon, In city driving it drops down to around 15, but in the winter time (Wisconsin) with slippery, ices road I only got 21. I love the power of acceleration compared to my 1997 Accord. Love the Honda Accord NN

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  Affordable sporty luxury - 2009 Honda Accord
  By BARLEYCORN - November 9 - 4:46 pm

  Park the accord coupe next to an entry level ($40,000) bmw, mercedes, lexus, or infiniti, and it will visually blow them all away, for 10 grand less. I just bought a black with black leather interior. Sharp, comfortable, and stylish. EX-L V-6 without nav. The chrome doorhandles, chrome around side windows and dual chrome exhaust and the wheels shout tasteful class. This car puts a smile on my face every time I look at it.

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  Great Car! - 1999 Honda Civic
  By jerra - November 9 - 3:58 pm

  Great car for the price and reliability...fun to drive..

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  Hail Honda! - 1991 Honda Accord
  By Merlin27316 - November 9 - 10:26 am

  Ive been driving this car for 13 years. Ive replaced the timing belt twice as a preventitive measure and kept the oil changed anywhere from 3500-4000 mile intervals. I switched to Synthetic at 200,000 miles and still only lose 1/2 quart between oil changes and that appears to be through gaskets. Original clutch, alternator, A/C, starter, you name it. This car has never "broke down". My daughter rode in this car at 3 years of age and now shes driving it. I should have gone with the automatic trans but couldnt afford it at the time.

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  Great Car - 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour
  By Dan - November 9 - 7:46 am

  This car is a great performer. I really enjoy driving the car and everyone that has looked at it loves it. Great purchase!

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  i love my honda - 2000 Honda Odyssey
  By mitzi59 - November 9 - 5:16 am

  i have two children, and when you do not have to spent many days at the dealership waiting for your car to be fixed, this makes you a happy camper.

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  Dont buy 2009 Honda Accord V6 - 2009 Honda Accord
  By David Ga. - November 9 - 3:16 am

  Our 2009 Honda Accord V6 surges up and down hills. The Honda service department says this is NORMAL operation. If you are looking for a car with a nice ride, dont look at the 2009 Honda Accord V6.

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  Former MDX owner loves the new Pilot!! - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By Ken - November 8 - 8:13 am

  I recently purchased an 06 Pilot after owning an 02 MDX for 3 1/2 years. After considerable shopping I found that the MDX/Pilot was the right vehicle for me. I loved my MDX and thought I would buy another one but when I drove and compared the Pilot I actually preferred it saving $7,000 in the process. There is no doubt that the MDX is sexier but I prefer the ride and handling of the Pilot. The leather seats are a little softer and more comfortable and the interior is more practical. Many MDX features are in the Pilot that the brochure doesnt mention like dual lighted vanity mirrors and speed sensitive intermittent wipers etc. Acura Marketing is slick but the Pilot is a far better value.

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  Will be superb car with some improvement - 2008 Honda Civic
  By Sreen - November 8 - 7:10 am

  I am using this car for the past 6 months and thought of writing a review based on my experience. I bought this brand new car after reading lot of reviews and research. The car is the best car I have ever owned. The comfort it gives while driving can be compared to major luxury brands in the Sedan section. Mileage is superb, 35+ on highway and 28+ local.