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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  Superior Honda Hybrid - - 2004 Honda Civic
  By gay e cheney - September 26 - 10:00 am

  I waited for and sought out this car, wanting a hybrid and having driven Hondas for 30 years now. Not enough dealers around here carry them. Many people waiting for them. I have always had hatch backs and loved them for carrying stuff. Dont know whether or not a hatchback could get as good mileage.

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  04 Civic Si - 2004 Honda Civic
  By cybrjam - September 26 - 10:00 am

  I was going to buy this car back in 2003, but decided to stay a little longer with my 8 year old car and save some money. I just got the 04 model yesterday and although I havent being able to push it (break-in period); it feels solid. Engine is quiet upon acceleration and super quiet when idle. Road noise can be felt at freeway speeds, but it is a "sports" car. Compared to my old car, the handling is very precise and the transmission is second to none. Got the car for $17,100 plus tax and title.

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  Accord review - 2004 Honda Accord
  By appleboy - September 26 - 10:00 am

  Great car overall, but lacks in pickup. Seems like the Civic has better pickup off the bat. Instrument panel is well designed and fun to use. Lot of extras.

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  Great Car--My Second One!! - 2004 Honda Accord
  By mimosa - September 26 - 10:00 am

  This is a fun car to drive if you like a 5 speed. Its very roomy inside but doesnt drive like a big car. I love it. The heated drivers seat in winter is a treat. Very reliable, quiet.

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  Test Drive A Civic - Youll Own It - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Michelle In GA - September 26 - 2:53 am

  I bought my Honda LX(A) Coupe a couple of months ago and I only wish I had gotten a Civic sooner. Ive been an Accord owner, but I initially choose the Civic because it was a gas saver (30/40) and cheaper. I thought I was settling for less, but after a nice test drive, I knew I receiving far better (gas/$) and much more fun to drive - such a nice, sporty car. I love the way it handles, starts effortlessly and quietly, picks up speed in a nanosecond, brakes smoothly & quietly, handles curves/turns on a dime, and I drive forever before it requires gas. Test Drive One, its such fun and I bet You too will become a Civic owner!

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  The Best in its class. - 1996 Honda Civic
  By Silvercivic - September 26 - 2:00 am

  Over the past 6 months I had this car it drives nearly flawless in every way. Of course since it was used I had to do some minor repairs(New battery, realign rear bumper, swap lightbulbs) To this day I am still very pleased with this car.

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  Great car - 2017 Honda Accord
  By Sylo - September 25 - 10:50 pm

  Try the cvt before you buy. I drove Altima 7 years ago and didnt like it. This accord has great cvt car is very responsive and I love it. This accord is more sporty than previous versions and I like it So far I like it a lot

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  Great First Impressions! - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By Ron - September 25 - 9:56 pm

  Have owned several Accords both 4 and 6 cyl. Always great performers but I now need AWD (Colorado mountains/plains) and storage room. 27/32 HWY and 22/24 urban - REALLY. Very impressed w/power and trans. in mountain and normal terrain. Big guy, it is comfortable and stability is outstanding; w/performance in windy conditions surprisingly good. Have not had any snow to test in yet. Compared with Forester (lousy 4 spd trans.) almost went w/it anyway, Rav4 (not as stable and the swing out rear door is dangerous) and Edge (lousy mpg but felt substantial).

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  A wise 2-door coupe purchase - 2009 Honda Accord
  By Accordguy0325 - September 25 - 6:56 am

  My 2009 Accord EX-L V6 coupe. I recently purchased the above car in crystal black pearl, with a black interior. In terms of exterior styling I personally believe it is one of Hondas best looking cars to date with its flowing lines, chrome accents, large wheels, and, expressive curves. I find the interior to be very luxurious, visually appealing, and very well put together. The textures and materials of the interior, especially the leather trim and aluminum look accents are of high quality. The power from the 3.5 liter V6 is smooth and strong, complimented by a perfect balance of sporty handling and a comfortable ride, all while being reasonably quiet. I highly recommend this car!

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  S2000 is awsome - 2001 Honda S2000
  By rc7579bu - September 25 - 2:00 am

  Ive been driving mine for a month and I think Im in love!!!