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 - 2003 Honda Civic
  By HondaCiv - July 30 - 3:50 pm

  I got this car used, to replace my 97 Accord. I really like this car. it has about 25k miles on without even the hint of a problem. Ironically enough I was rear ended (correction- Plowed through) 4 days after I bought the car. I was rear ended at about 30 mph by a brand new Chevy Malibu. Her car was totalled. Mine had 7k worth of damage. I am very impressed at how well my Civic stood up in that accident for being such a small car. Anyways, it took them about 3 weeks to fix my car and its as good as new. If your looking for a semi-inexpensive car that has very low operating cost, high reliability and is also fun then go with a Civic. You just cant go wrong with a Honda

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  first year review - 2008 Honda Odyssey
  By MK - July 30 - 9:38 am

  First let me start of by saying that I am a huge car guy. Overall the odyssey is a nice minivan. It is a nice ride for a longer road trip or hauling people around, probably the best minivan out there right now, not that there is a very large selection available. On the down side it is far from perfect. First of when you get a car that is $40000+ you should expect better interior materials, especially on the dash. Its all hard plastic, kinda like the pre- 2007 GMs. I have owned infinities before in the same price range and the dashes were much more luxurious. Secondly the seats other then the driver side are not exactly comfortable. The backs stick out to much. The outside mirrors stink

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  Honda Reliability??? - 2009 Honda Pilot
  By Laura - July 30 - 8:56 am

  I really wanted a GMC Acadia. Loved the look, but was a little scared with all the financial trouble. I also heard the GMC was not a reliable as a Honda. Therefore, trying to get the best buy for my money I bought a Honda Pilot. BIG MISTAKE. I have had major issues with the alignment. Feels like I go in ever other week. They (Honda Cars of Katy) keep telling me the Pilot was built to pull to the right. After spending 30K+ I thought I was getting a reliable car. Now after only 4 months of ownership, the paint is peeling in multiple places. The leather is already coming apart at the seams. I thought Honda was supposed to have quality vehicles, but I am sadly disappointed.

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  Content, maybe a better word - 2016 Honda HR-V
  By vivian singleton - July 30 - 8:07 am

  Im still happy with my HR-V because of the economics, not a gas guzzler. The acceleration is fine under normal situations. However, when at a complete stop, if I accelerate quickly, it doesnt respond well or when merging onto the highway...if I press on the gas pedal heavily, it wont move out as quick as I want, but these are rare situations and now I know what to expect. The interior is quite roomy, seats are comfortable, but manual. Theres plenty of leg room, rear seats can fold down or lifted up for traveling with bulky cargo. I live in an region where winters are rough on cars. In traffic, I had to brake quickly and the car just slid. I was in an area where salt trucks arent out as often as where I live or maybe they couldnt keep up with the continuously falling snow. I like listening to music on the radio, unfortunately my car doesnt indicate the names of songs/artists automatically. The manual was not helpful on this subject. The Honda HR-V is reliable, still kind of new so its expected.

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  165,000 mile review - 2003 Honda Civic
  By abigcess - July 30 - 7:26 am

  i purchased it new back in 03. i now have a little over 175,000 miles on it. its been the most dependable car. i still drive it hard... dirt roads, 120 degree heat, 1200 mile trips in 8 yrs. few yrs ago, i was rear-ended on the freeway resulting in some extensive damage, but still runs strong despite virtually no maintenance work on it.. so far, Ive changed brake pads once, spark plugs once, air filter twice, and last few times, Ive gone over 9000 miles between oil changes. havent done any tune ups, alignment, radiator flushes, or clutch work done yet. Im averaging 32-34 miles with 70/30 city/freeway driving.

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  Fit not for me - 2009 Honda Fit
  By Justin Slocum - July 29 - 1:18 pm

  I purchased a Honda Fit Sport with the 5 speed manual gear box and overall its a very solid car but I traded it in for the following reasons.. The steering is way too quick and downright squirrely at highway speeds.. Around town its not really a problem but on the highway its annoying. Youre constantly keeping the car on track. Secondly, at highway speeds it seems to be very susceptible to crosswinds because of its weight and body design. I would have to white knuckle the thing going on long trips with it. Lastly, its geared too short. Youre constantly shifting and the engine drones at highway speeds. Traded up to a civic ex coupe. I wouldnt advise buying this car at all.

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  Honda accord ex coupe - 1999 Honda Accord
  By JKirk - July 29 - 10:00 am

  This is a great vehicle. I feel in love with the LX but could only afford the Ex version. I have not been disappointed. I have had no problems other than: -a seatbelt attachment replacement - a brake sensor needing adjustment - door locks going out Most of these things were covered by warranty. Although I do not have the V6, I still like how this car performs, rides, and looks. After four years, I am still very happy with it and plan to hold onto it for quite a while. Its nice to know that Hondas really hold their value in case I do decide to trade in.

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  Love my Accord - 2003 Honda Accord
  By CrazieAccord - July 29 - 9:36 am

  So far my Accord has held up wonderfully. I love the fact that I can fit two adults in the back and they arent cramped. Fuel mileage is a big plus, I usually average 26 mpg with a mix of city and highway driving (mostly highway). The only issue I have is the rear window needs a wiper, water seems to just sit on the back window and makes it kind of annoying to look out of. I would (and do) recommend the 7th generation (03+) accord to anyone.

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  My 09 Honda Accord is a Pain in my Neck - 2009 Honda Accord
  By Stacey Parker - July 28 - 7:20 pm

  In an effort to simplify my life, I traded in my Lexus SUV for a 2009 Honda Accord EXL. Take that Chevron and Mobil! I loved the look and feel of the car. The woodgrain interior and upgraded stereo were luxurious options. It was a good fit for me. And, I was feeling pretty good about my decision - the first 39 minutes of my drive home. ThatÂ’s when I noticed the tinge of pain surging from my neck down through my back. I was in excruciating pain!!! I looked back quickly and realized that the Active Headrestraints would be the bane of my existence. A good idea gone wrong.

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  1990 Honda Civic DX - 1990 Honda Accord
  By Jeffersbug - July 27 - 3:00 pm

  I bought my 1990 Accord DX used in 2008. It seemed like a great deal considering it only had 68K. Only serious problem is I need to add a quart of oil every 300 miles. Ive been to three mechanics and nobody can seem to find the cause. Been able to drive it 16,000 miles already without the problem getting worse. Other than that it runs great. The trunk does leak when it rains.