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:

• 

  Pocket Exotic - 2004 Honda S2000
  By Tony Bell - October 6 - 2:00 am

  I checked out several competitors and selected th S2000 because it gave the most bang for the buck and actually out-performs cars that are a lot more expensive. The handling is superb the ride tight and the car performs beautifully. Porsche owners have coveted my Berlina Black beauty with the frot airdam and wing spoiler. A great birthday present (along with an account with the state troopers)!

• 

  Honda is number one - 1993 Honda Accord
  By John Michael Ehlen - October 6 - 2:00 am

  This year Honda was well designed. The interior has held up well for 11 years and 211000 miles. I have never driven a better car than a Honda. I have long legs and yet I do not even have to put the seat all the way back to drive. It has plenty of power for a high mileage, four cylinder. I would suggest everyone get a Honda.

• 

  Mixed Experience - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By MatthewJ - October 6 - 2:00 am

  When we first bought out CR-V I loved it and considered buying a second one. Interior space, standard features and performance were among our likes. Since then, it has been recalled 5-6 times, and one item with the shifter has been a recurring problem. I also had to replace the back brakes, including rotors, at 25k for about $400 due to a stuck inboard caliper that dug up the rotor. The paint quality is terrible, it scratches very easily. I notice others with the same problem of scratches around the door handles. The door switches also keep failing (3 of them) which has caused us to leave the lights on more than once and kill the battery.

• 

  almost superb - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Meech - October 5 - 10:36 pm

  This SUV is a very comfortable ride. The 255 HP engine gives it a nice kick with smooth acceleration. The interior is accommodating and cozy. The wind shield wipers are in an awkward position, however, and there is a six cd player and another solo cd player which is weird, but poses no problems. Also, a silver trim has been added to the interior for cosmetic purposes which I can do without. Despite some disappointment about some cosmetic decisions this vehicle is powerful, comfortable, handles beautifully and is thoroughly enjoyable.

• 

  Just Love the V6 - 2005 Honda Accord
  By Chris - October 5 - 7:40 pm

  Although just had the car for 2 weeks, I am very impressed with the quality comforts and handling for the price. Just traded a 2003 Camry which I loved and although the Camry was more quiet and provided a smoother ride, the interior comforts, handling and extras of the Accord definately make up for it. I Definately recomend it.

• 

  Very Reliable - 2017 Honda Civic
  By Sol Araiz - October 5 - 12:37 pm

  Very economical, sporty and stylish! Lovin my Honda Civic sedan.

• 

  dissapointment - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By gabemar - October 5 - 2:00 am

  Right after manufacturers warranty expired, V-Tech oil pressure switch failure, driver side electric window mechanism had to be replaced and AC compressor had to be replaced. This is my 3 Honda and by far, the biggest dissapointment...

• 

  van - 2002 Honda Odyssey
  By TMMG - October 5 - 2:00 am

  good condition, power doors, rear air, cloth seats, cd, 43800 miles,new tires quad seating

• 

  Hyundai or Honda? - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By KGehris - October 5 - 12:03 am

  Had Hondas most of my life, very reliable cars!! Until now....Im grateful I leased her. Engine doesnt run right when cold (not talking freezing!!), dealer says theres nothing wrong? Gas mileage is worse than wifes CRV! Seat belt warning beep keeps going off except when I get close to dealer to show em!

• 

  What more do you need!!!!! - 2002 Honda Odyssey
  By EMJAY - October 4 - 10:13 pm

  I am loving every moment when i am in the car. if you are in the market for a minivan go get it..