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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  The best car on earth!! - 2002 Honda Civic
  By 1st place - June 21 - 10:00 am

  The best vehicle ever, i love this car. So smooth, yet so much style, it grips the road, has enough power and acceleration to pass thos "fast" cars on the freeway or just around. You should really enjoy this car as much as i have. Its my baby!!

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  kick a** ride - 2002 Honda Civic
  By kat - June 21 - 10:00 am

  I totally love the stick on the dash as well as the excellent cornering with curved seats to support your body when you accelerate into a turn. The manual T allowes for powerful control of the 4-cyl. making the most of the 160 horse power. An excellent choice for women!!!

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  Awesome car - 2003 Honda Civic
  By misharaj - June 21 - 10:00 am

  This car is awesome.

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  Leader Master view - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By leader master - June 20 - 10:30 pm

  Honda Pilot is the best SUV I was able to buy with these highest quality and reliability grades. Im a car fan with a strong orientation to SUVs since theyre roomy and theyre high enough to allow me see among the traffic. Visibility, Quality, Good Looking and "Roomy" interior are the features of Pilot. After awhile driving it doesnt seems too big behind the wheel, but very powerfull, the engine (240hp 3.5L V-Teck) provides an excellent strenght that make you feel confident when passing other vehicles or crossing with a yellow light. Another good feature is the clearence and the accessibility to the driver seat; it feels like first class and drives safely for a sized family w/grandparents.

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  New Civic- 1st impressions - 2006 Honda Civic
  By chiggins - June 20 - 6:26 pm

  My wife and I are sensitive to the environment and while the price of gas does not bother us too much (!), we are concerned about future shortages Cant make a case for hybrids. I miss my old English sports cars, so I look for nimble handling. The Civic is terrific- excellent gas mileage, unexpected good performance in the speed ranges we use most often, a full compliment of safety features standard, and a roomy comfortable interior. For those who need the best cornering ability in a small car- look at the Maxda 3. For balanced performance and value- this Civic is superb.

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  3rd Odyssey and am absolutely loving it. - 2018 Honda Odyssey
  By Tyler - June 20 - 12:26 am

  Ive had each of the last three generations of Odysseys, as well as a previous generation Sienna. In addition, I rent Siennas all the time for work and really like them. However, the new Odyssey blows them away. I was looking for a used Sienna or Odyssey to replace my 2011 EXL. However, resale values being exceptionally high, I was able to get into a new one for a couple thousand more. Im super-impressed with the upgrades over the last generation. Specifically, the safety suite is incredible. I didnt really think I needed it at first, but it is done so well that it isnt obtrusive and truly an asset. The ride quality is superb. It is quieter than either the old Odysseys or Siennas, but somehow feels connected to the road (the Sienna is a little too plush). The engine is responsive. If you floor it, you can actually squeal the tires. Not exactly normal minivan use- but fun nonetheless. The interior was beyond my expectations. Yes, the middle seats arent easy to take out. However, we only take the middle seats out once or twice a year. Im cool with the trade off of getting big comfortable seats instead of stow and go. We were given a town and country as a rental and the middle seats were flimsy and uncomfortable. The 2 axis sliding feature is great and helps manage the relationships of my kids. Again, Im super impressed. This is the first vehicle purchase I can remember where I havent had any buyers remorse.

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  Great car - 2007 Honda Accord
  By Sheryl - June 19 - 5:56 pm

  I just bought this car a few days ago and did not expect to have a luxury car but thats what it drives like. I have had two LX models and this is not the same car! VERY comfortable, great stereo, wonderful luxurious features from heated seats to XM radio. The suspension is great, very little road noise compared to the LX. Worth every penny!

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  Value - 2016 Honda Civic
  By James Vasan - June 19 - 5:02 am

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  Love my CRV - 2006 Honda CR-V
  By c s - June 18 - 5:51 pm

  just go get one!! The 2006 still have the table in the back instead of the spare tire.

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  Love my CRV - 2006 Honda CR-V
  By c s - June 18 - 5:51 pm

  just go get one!! The 2006 still have the table in the back instead of the spare tire.