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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  My 2006 Honda Ridgeline - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By Gary Espelin - February 16 - 9:03 pm

  I purchased my Honda Ridgeline March 19, 2005. I saw it advertised on TV and went down the next day to see it. Test drove and bought it the next day. I puchased the Floor Model which had the Running Board, Mudguards and Bed Extender. I have since added Foglights, Read Sensors, Roof Rack, Window and Hood Shields, Side Protective Modlings and the Tonneau Cover. I never get tired of driving this vehicle and/or talking about it. Many people approach me and I take them though the entire Vehicle. Im willing to say that I believe I have convinced people to go look at them. It is the most fantastic Vehicle I have ever owned and I have owned many. The ride, comfort and security are the best.

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  2016 Honda Accord - 2016 Honda Accord
  By gerald dorna - February 16 - 11:14 am

  Love the car and everything about it. I just dont like the color I bought which is my mistake. Im a white car guy.

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  New Odyssey - 2016 Honda Odyssey
  By Razi Sheikh - February 16 - 6:20 am

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  A Very Family Friendly Car!!! - 2003 Honda Element
  By lovinourelement - February 16 - 2:00 am

  We bought our Element in September and LOVE it. My 2.5 yr old thinks it is the best thing ever!!! It is fun, functional (can we bold and underline this one) and reliable! Oh Yeah, No more little feet kicking the back of my seat! The back seat area is so large I can even get in the back to buckle my daughter in the seat without having to stand in the rain or snow! Now that is what I call functional! Lots of leg room and not to mention head room. The location of the sun roof will definitely keep the folks in the back seat busy star gazing! We cant be happier with this purchase! Hooray for Honda! A true cross between a traditional SUV and Minivan.

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  my ex crv - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By robbn - February 16 - 2:00 am

  I love this vehicle. The only thing I regret is I miss having a bigger car. At the same time, Im glad its smaller for economy reasons. I like the leather trim; however, I would like it fully leathered. I would also like to have alittle more visibility from the right side.

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  Best Type of Car for the Money - 2003 Honda Accord
  By RMBrown - February 16 - 2:00 am

  My first experience with Hondas was driving the LX 4-door Civic with the Autom. Transmission. I drove that car for 2 years had had zero problems. But, living here in the Dallas Metro area, you, by in large,need more "get-up and go" on the major throughfares than what the Civic can give. So, I stayed with Honda and moved up to the Accord line and now I really enjoy driving, once again! McKinney Honda Rocks!!!!!!! :>)

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  The complete package - 2003 Honda Accord
  By jgoveia - February 16 - 2:00 am

  The EX V-6 Model has the perfect balance of features, fun, and price. The engine is responsive yet fuel efficient on REGULAR gasoline. It has all the creature comforts of a near luxury sedan for thousands less. Legendary Honda reliability and re- sale value (not that Im selling it any time soon). After comapring to its Acura counterpart, VW Passat, and I-30, this was the most logival choice.

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  This is AWESOME - 2004 Honda Accord
  By San Antonio - February 16 - 2:00 am

  Cannot believe the quality, performance and craftmanship in this car having traded our Volvo S80 T6 which, by the way, is the most expensive and troublesome car we have ever owned (Mercedes Benz and BMW included). This Honda matches and beats those expensive European sedans in every aspect!!!

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  Love the Honda - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By L.G. - February 15 - 9:20 pm

  This is my first import vehicle in over 40 years of driving. I must say that I am at present time very satisfied with this car. The fuel consumption is not as good as advertised, but I am satisfied with just over 26 MPG. I was concerned about the power of a 4 Cyl.engin, but while it is not that of the V8s I have driven over the years I find it to be pleasing. It seems to be road worthy and stable. Handles well beond my expectations. There is a lot more room inside than you might expect from the cars outward appearance.Runs smooth, quite, and is fun to dtrive.

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  Ridgeline Done right - 2017 Honda Ridgeline
  By Bob - February 15 - 5:48 pm

  I have owned a Ridgeline since 2006 and this is a big improvement on a already super vehicle. Contrary to what dealers tell you, there is room for negotiation.