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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  Watch your front end - 2007 Honda Civic
  By Todd - February 8 - 12:50 am

  I purchased the Honda Civic EX without a test drive since I had already test drove the 2006 Civic and the 2006 Toyota Corolla last year. I liked the way the Civic drove while being somewhat of a cross between an economizer sedan and a luxury car. Highway mileage at 40 seems to be a misnomer. I cant beat 36 mpg with slow acceleration highway although I have less than 2,000 miles on the car. My previous new Civic (1990) beat the ratings, so these new ratings seem to be overly optimistic.

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  Not a bad coupe spacious inside - 2015 Honda Civic
  By Zohaib - February 7 - 6:45 pm

  Great first car no problems what soever even with the cvt transmission has enough power havent had any problems drives nice great fuel saver and a spacious coupe.

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  01 Civic EX replacment - 2006 Honda Civic
  By bill c - February 7 - 1:13 am

  After 5 years of no problems with our 01 EX we traded it in on the 4dr EX. The resale amazed me in comparison to the other cars we were considering to trade. This was one of the primary considerations we examined prior to purchase. It appears Honda has hit a home run in our initial ownership experience. The car is significantly quiter than the 01 Coupe we had and more comfortable. Fit and finish also receive high marks. Took it on a trip the day we purchased it and got 38 MPG on the highway.

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  Great Vehicle so Far! - 2008 Honda Odyssey
  By beebow1 - February 5 - 9:23 pm

  This is our first Honda and we couldnt be more pleased. I am an engineer and appreciate what they have done to produce such a versatile vehicle. My wife loves the van and I have to say that I love it also. No problems so far. The ride is excellent and the handling is great. I have a high performance sports car so the comparison is valid. We went with the 08 because of the newer engine technology, options not included on the 07 model. and the new look. Pricing was higher, but we feel it was worth it. I just asked my wife if she had any other comments and she responded "I love it".

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  My type of truck - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By bikeblue - February 5 - 3:33 pm

  Ive looked and driven every truck on the market and the Ridgeline was the best vehicle for my needs. It has all the power and comfort of a sedan, but the function of a light duty truck. Plus with a 5 star crash rating, I know my family and I will be safe. All my friends have commented on the great ride and features and the ample room of the cab.

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  Love It! - 2016 Honda Accord
  By Linda Zarro - February 5 - 2:47 pm

  Working with Edmunds helped us find my perfect car and their prices were spot on.

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  As good as it gets. - 2008 Honda Accord
  By cgyfireman - February 5 - 11:06 am

  What a nice car. Fun to drive, lots of power, smooth and a great interior. Havent noticed any problem with the vcm as reported by some. Initial gas mileage looks good too. I do find the lumbar on the drivers seat a bit uncomfortable though. Not sure if I will get used to it in time, hope so. So far a great car, looking forward to many years of Honda reliability.

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  The most comfortable car I have owned. - 1996 Honda Accord
  By hondamanjt - February 5 - 9:26 am

  The car has a very sophisticated feel to it when you drive it. The leather seats and 6-way power seat are really a nice addition. It has the feel of a sports car, yet is quiet and extremely economical. When I take road trips I dont want to get out of my car because it makes me so relaxed to drive it.

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  keep coming back to the civic - 2004 Honda Civic
  By zschneid - February 4 - 11:03 am

  This is my second civic that I have owned and I love this car. You cant beat the reliability and gas mileage. Great first new car and dependable used car for anyone.

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  FUN TO DRIVE, SPORTY, & RELIABLE - 2001 Honda Accord
  By ksokie - February 4 - 10:00 am

  We love our Accord coupe ("Heidi")!! The 2001 body style is sporty, yet elegant (especially in silver). Her V6 accelerates supremely when passing. She has a sliding/tilting sun roof that is great, as is the trunk room - very spacious for a car this size. The rear seating is tight for 3 older teenagers (triplets), but that didnt stop us from taking it on vacations and trips to see family out of state. When it comes down to it, what we like the most about Heidi is the sheer feeling of free-spiritedness that she gives us. At slightly over 100,000 miles, she still drives like a dream.