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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  Best Decision Ever! - 2004 Honda Accord
  By bradleyr - August 19 - 2:00 am

  Seriously..I looked at all the other cars...This one not only gave me the most for the money, but also gave me everything other cars that cost more money didnt even offer (ie, XM Radio Standard on EX-L)

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  Our Second 04 Accord - 2004 Honda Accord
  By denvrfan - August 19 - 2:00 am

  We were so impressed with my wifes 04 EXV6 sedan that I just bought an 04 EXV6 coupe with 6sp. and navigation. Although the car is fun to drive, a couple of surprises: 1)interior body integrity is lacking- major rattle coming from the dashboard, 2)the supposed "premium" audio system does not sound as punchy as my wifes sedan. Also, be ready for a harder ride thanks to the low profile 50 series tires and sport suspension.

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  CollegeGuy review - 1996 Honda Accord
  By absolute78 - August 19 - 1:10 am

  What a great car! It looks great, the V6 is a blast to drive, and with 70K miles on mine, it still feels, looks, and drives like its 6 months old!

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  Happy new lessor! - 2016 Honda Fit
  By Aaron Schwartz - August 19 - 12:14 am

  Nearly everything has been spectacular with this car! Were getting 33 City / 42 Highway, exactly as advertised. Ive never driven a CVT before and find it to be quite easy to use and peppy. Very comfortable seats all around, even for my 61" father to ride in the back. Cargo room is incredible for such a small car (and even compared to many larger cars) - we could easily replace our van with this for 99% of cargo needs. If you had to press me to complain about something, the only negative I can think of is that the door panel isnt as thick as those on my previous cars, and I like to rest my arm there on long trips. Rush out and get one!

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  The Rocket - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Charlie Brown - August 18 - 11:41 pm

  This car will take off! Fuel economy not as good as my 2000 4cyl Accord. Ive babied it for 19mpg in town and I deliver pizza two nights a week. I havent taken a road trip yet so we shall see. HEATED seats are wonderful. Radio system could use some equalizer presets and usb ports buts sounds ok. A road trip will tell me more about road noise. Very sleek look and fun to drive.

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  Odyssey Review - 2002 Honda Odyssey
  By mjsohel - August 18 - 10:00 am

  We got delivery of our 02 Odyssey EX w/navigation system and leather just a few months ago. Since then I have been happy. But I have also had some complaints: The leather is not as good as toyotas, the sliding doors are the worst peice of crap in the minivan. The EPA could be improved, an Onstar system and air compressor like on the Pontiac Montana, Wood grain panels would be nice, less road noise, bumps,rattles,and squeaks would be nice,Xenon ligts, and one last thing make the entertainment system and navigation syustem available on the same van.

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  No Heat On My Feet - 2001 Honda Civic
  By BrianWilkins - August 18 - 10:00 am

  Overall its a good car, but Honda has been less than helpful with service. I have been called a problem by my dealer and told by Honda corporate that having no heat come out of the floor vents isnt a problem (I live in Buffalo,NY - its a problem). So if you want to stay warm in winter, look elsewhere.

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  180,000 and Still Going Strong - 1990 Honda Civic
  By OregonDan - August 18 - 2:00 am

  180,000 miles and still going strong with no problems except for poor radio reception.

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  A Sporty & fuel efficient alternative! - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Loving06Civic - August 17 - 8:30 pm

  Pleasant car to drive, tight suspension and handles nice. With a 50 mile round trip commute its pretty comfortable for a large stocky 6+ ft male. Not seeing the hood takes a bit getting used too but my last honda was similar. Overall this car is very fun to drive and cruise around town. Love the sporty exterior thats not plain looking. Great car as you come to expect from Honda.!! Recommend.

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  Its great, but.... - 2007 Honda Fit
  By PC - August 17 - 4:06 pm

  I love my Honda Fit. I bought it knowing that the ride was a little bit bumpy. I bought the basic rather than the sport, perhaps the 15 inch wheels would have been better. I started getting great gas mileage but now it dropped considerably. However, that may be a result of having to run the AC on high much of the time. After owning a gas guzzling SUV, it is nice not to have to be running to the gas station all the time. My family of 5 fits fine and I can accept the bumpy ride