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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  Whatta great truck!!! - 2008 Honda Ridgeline
  By Rob - January 6 - 9:37 am

  A common theme seems to be praise of the in bed trunk... It is a life saver. Its one of those things that once youve had it... you CANT live without it. The AWD is awesome. We recently had a snow storm w/ 20". It was the first snow storm weve had since I owned the truck, and I couldnt believe how great the truck handled. I could not make the truck fishtail...even when I wanted it to. Snow aside... I thoroughly enjoy driving this vehicle year round, regardless of the weather. I can honestly say that the when I replace my Ridgeline... it will be with a Ridgeline!!

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  Cant beat it for the money - 2008 Honda Civic
  By dancingoutlaw - January 4 - 5:50 pm

  I owned two Infiniti G35 coupes before I purchased this car (times got tough). I dont think there is a better car out there for the money. I consistently get close to 30 mpg in town and the car handles almost as well as my G35s and that is no joke. The seats are actually more comfortable than the G35s, holding you in place firmly but offering great support during longer trips. I would highly recommend this car. It looks great, it performs great, its a blast to drive in the curvy, mountain roads near my home, the vtec motor absolutely howls from 5500-8000 rpm, it has plenty of interior room and a huge trunk. You just cant beat it with Hondas reliability to boot.

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  Love our Pilot! - 2010 Honda Pilot
  By Ross - January 4 - 2:11 pm

  Overall, very satisfied. Primarily used by my wife who drives 1/2 mile to work one way. Mileage is bad but with wifes short commute, this isnt that critical. Engine compartment fuse box cover was missing and only discovered after getting vehicle home. This necessitated a trip back to dealer. Ride on highway not bad at all for a "truck". Acceleration and braking seem fine. Additional room from the 2007 Pilot we turned in at lease-end is a plus. Bothersome that the roof rack is a $400.00 extra. Other than that, no complaints.

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  1995 Prelude Si - 1995 Honda Prelude
  By Murrell - January 3 - 2:47 pm

  I have had my prelude for 5 years now and i have put a total of 85,000 miles on it. It has been the most fun car to drive I have ever had. It still has the same amount of power since the day i bought it. Actually a little more because of a few mods. I added a cold air intake and a full exhaust. The sound of the car is amazing. I have nothing bad to say about it. It is a totally reliable car. With the mods i made i get about 28.5 miles per gal around town driving.

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  Nice Truck - 2008 Honda Ridgeline
  By DANSWAK - January 3 - 8:40 am

  I like everything about this truck except the lack of integrated lock on tailgate. The inbed trunk has an integrated lock which can be opened using keyfob. The tailgate does not even have a lock on it. Once I added a tonneau cover I had to add a "pop-a- lock" which necessitates me carrying an extra key.

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  Lives up to her name-Grace - 1996 Honda Accord
  By fajenkins - January 3 - 8:23 am

  When i test drove the car, I loved the pick up and go. because of her age, Im having the original parts give out, but i have an awesome mechanical team that will give me a fair deal and fix her/maintain her one time and well. (shes 13 years old). My mom states in two years I should retire my car and get a newer one,if I have the money then, I will if not, Ill keep this one going until she cant go anymore.

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  Great car - 2008 Honda Odyssey
  By Rifat - January 2 - 4:11 pm

  This is my second Honda Odyssey, first one 2002-2008, it is a great van, fun to drive, smooth, good fuel economy, strong and dependable, I drove the van from Cincinnati to Chicago with family of 5 and infant in a car seat, carrying 10 luggages, no problems at all, navigation needs update, dvd is excellent, wish if awd is available. This van worth every Penny.

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  25mpg in town, 38mpg hwy - 1 complaint - 2006 Honda Accord
  By Rob P - January 2 - 11:25 am

  I have owned more than 10 Honda/Acuras over 30+ years. My 2006 Accord is way up as #1 or #2. My 1996 Accord has 215k and still sings. I am really surprised @ the power & MPG combo from my 2006. I AVERAGE 25mpg around town consistently with my 2.4 (4-cy)2006. I average 34 MPG on the highway, and I drive ~ 75-80mph on cruise. Hwy varies ~ 33mpg(lowest)-38mpg(highest). Honda Engineering, Quality, and made in U.S.A.!!

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  Great Vehicle! - 2010 Honda Pilot
  By txmommy - January 2 - 9:34 am

  Previous to this I had a 2000 Honda Accord, after two kids we needed more space. This Pilot definitely has more space and can comfortably fit three across (with a car seat in the middle). It has a smooth drive and the gas mileage is as advertised, though I do not have a lead foot and drive conservatively. The interior is very roomy, I was surprised it was so big. The leather does seem a bit cheap since it seems like it discolors easily and attracts the blue color off of jeans, I have the light grey leather. Overall I am very pleased with my new Pilot. It gets great mileage, has lots of room, is very safe and easy to drive and maneuver and I enjoy it immensely!

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  Very reliable - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Igor Tsapenko - January 1 - 6:32 pm

  I bought this being 5y.o. at 75K mi.I own it for 2 years now with 100Kmi. Only very minor problems. Recently the light inside wont come on when doors open. Seems to be loose wire contact. Very pleasant to drive. Im glad I didnt read this review before I bought it. I live in Las Vegas, so perhaps the car lasts longer in the mild climate.