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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  Love my Ridgeline - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By Wynoochekid - September 11 - 6:33 pm

  We purchased the Ridgeline as a compromise (I wanted a pickup and my wife wanted a car). It turned out to be the best move we could possibly have made. We both love the truck and consider it the finest vehicle we have ever owned. Everything is top quality and we are 100% satisfied. Strangers constantly approach us with questions about the Ridgeline and make favorable comments about its appearance. We have owned many new vehicles but that is a real first.

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  Honda crv- never will but again - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By Farrell - September 11 - 2:00 am

  From the first day I bought this car I have had one problem after the other. I bought this car brand new and it had been a major disappointment. But the biggest shock was that Honda could care less. Their customer service is horrible. I made numerous calls and even wrote letters to the Honda Corporation- they could care less. I am in the process of getting rid of it and I will never buy a Honda again!!!!

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  Good Van! - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By shellbelle333 - September 11 - 2:00 am

  I am very happy with the purchase of this van. I love the entertainment system, its great for my 2 year old. I like to the look, and its comfort. My husband is a large guy and he fits in it as well as I do.

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  BEST MINIVAN AROUND - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By hottiern - September 11 - 2:00 am

  LOTS OF LEG ROOM IN 2ND AND 3RD ROWS. WAS COMFORTABLE FOR ALL THE KIDS ON OUR ROAD TRIP THIS SUMMER.DVD PLAYER A MUST HAVE WITH 4 KIDS. THERE IS PLENTY OF STORAGE TO FIT A DOUBLE STROLLER AND LUGGAGE IN THE BACK.WOULD DEFINATELY RECOMMEND THIS VAN FOR GROWING FAMILIES.

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  Worth the wait. - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Jason S. - September 11 - 1:10 am

  I put my deposit down in the beginning of December and just now (March) got my Honda Civic. This vehicle was well worth the wait. Very responsive, fun to drive, and the quality of the car are just a few things to say about it. Way to go Honda!!

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  Great Grocery Getter! - 2015 Honda CR-V
  By Guy Zoghby - September 10 - 3:38 pm

  We bought the CR-V EX-L to replace an older Acura. We chose a 2015 model in January 2016 which I think helped us get a 15% discount from MSRP. We chose the two wheel drive model to reduce purchase and maintenance costs. The car is overall excellent. Great features, fit and finish for the price. The noise and vibration is a bit more than our Acura - as to be expected for the brand position and pricing. The radio and phone controls are not intuitive but easily learned. MPG has been less than expected despite operating it in "green leaf" mode. All in all, we highly recommend the car!

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  06 Accord SE - 2006 Honda Accord
  By Ron - September 10 - 7:50 am

  Still a nice car which honda cars are famous for thats why I opted for this car. Unfortunately I have some quality built issues with my car like rattling noises coming from the trunk, clicking noises coming from the left rear passenger compartment probably which houses the side curtain head airbag. The glove compartment doesnt align properly, Gaps on the exterior panel, Steering overcrowning on the road. Kinda dissapointed with these for a brand new Honda Accord. Will take to the dealer and Ill see how the service department performs customer service.

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  Saab story over. - 2008 Honda Civic
  By mike crowley - September 10 - 2:50 am

  I had a 2003 Saab 9-3, but did not want to spend 30 plus for another car and the headache of a "european import". The Civic Si is as fun, or more fun to drive than the Saab 9-3 was. The Saab was fun to drive that is when it was not in the shop. Think twice before a 30-40 thousand dollar car and check out the Si! A fantastic little pocket rocket inside and out!

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  Fun in the Sun - 2004 Honda S2000
  By Mark Geers - September 10 - 2:00 am

  Honda has solidified its reputation for engineering excellence with the S2000. Everything fits properly and operates flawlessly. The engine is virtually jewel-like in appearance. The car is an absolute kick to drive and is a real head-turner. The convertible top could not be easier to operate, and invites almost sybaritic delight in the outdoors.

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  Grrrreat Car - 1997 Honda Accord
  By jdsharc - September 10 - 2:00 am

  This is my 3rd Honda (83 Civic wagon, 86 Accord) and Ive driven the stuff out of it. The only money Ive put into it has been a timing belt - required - and some A/C work - not Hondas strongest link. I have no complaints about this car. Can see the benefits of a 5-speed, though and its a blast to drive.