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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  Bobs Car - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By rnappi7813 - February 4 - 10:00 am

  I think this is a great package for the money. Honda quality, price and value do it for me.

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  2004 4dr LX Auto, Dark Blue - 2004 Honda Civic
  By Larry M - February 4 - 10:00 am

  With the fuel prices going up and my daily ride to and from work adding up to 130 miles per day I decided it was time for a change from my 4x4 SUVs and trucks. My wife and I traded our 99 Grand Vitara in on this blue LX Sedan and although we mis the SUV this car is really great! I have driven it on a 12 hour road trip with my 2 children in the back seat and we were all very comfortable. I average 33-35 MPG with the car, but in its defense I drive PA turnpike and set the speed at 73. The interior is cleanly appointed and roomy, the trunk is wonderfull! I fit my 34" Samsonite softbag and 30" hardbag in the trunk! Exterior stlying is sporty and fun

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  great car! - 2003 Honda Accord
  By honda a. - February 4 - 10:00 am

  This is a great car! the car have exceptional power for a v4. Ive owned this car for 6 months already and everything has going great exept for a few minor fix up which would be great. It seem like the car is slow on the starting and the stereo need a little bit more power. Better gas milage in city would also be great too. The car doesnt perform well on city milage like the way how it well the hwy milage. The brake system was a little bit touchy at first but once you get the hang of it, you love the response. I have to say after test driving the altima,camry,passat I think this car has the best value for the car. great interior and exterior.

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  Good Car - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Chifai - February 4 - 10:00 am

  I owned 1993 Honda Accord LX. Due to natural disaster, my old car got flooded and I decide to get the new one. Basically 2004 Accord EX-V6 has lots of power that you can hunt down other cars like Camry V6, Mazda 6s or it can match with Nissan Altima V6 and even Audi A4 3.0. Very ergonomic and nice design. But there are some cheap plastic. Also I drive 75% local & 25% hwy and get only 17.5 miles / gallon. I am not a crazy driver but still have this kind of number on mileage. Slightly disappointed.

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  Just Smilin - 2005 Honda Accord
  By Top Notch - February 4 - 5:26 am

  Sprung for an LX 4cyl auto today. Drove everything in the segment - just a fine car and am enjoying the hell out of my decision. Great stuff. BTW, anyone in Denver looking for the best dealership around, hit Ralph Schomp in Littleton. No BS, even gave $700 over book for the trade. Will have the car for years, and know Ill be happy with it.

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  when Honda made cars to last forever - 1996 Honda Accord
  By wagon owner - February 3 - 3:13 pm

  the motor with maintance can go forever, nothing ever goes wrong because it dont have all the electronics of todays cars, if they still made these they would be broke, nobody would need to replace.

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  Excellent, fun driving car - 2014 Honda CR-V
  By Cliff - February 3 - 7:44 am

  Now that Honda has fix the VTC actuator (updated part installed), I have only one minor complaint. I cant use the text respond feature with my IPHONE. It may be an IPHONE problem. Car has enough power to keep up with traffic. It handles good. I like the electronic power steering. There is plenty of storage for hauling stuff. The backup camera is very helpful. I prefer the wide angle view. The front seat comfort is satisfactory, but I think it could be improved. You need to remember its not an Accord and will not have the comfort of an Accord.

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  Best Car Yet - 2008 Honda Civic
  By Richie - February 2 - 10:13 am

  Having just traded my 2001 Civic EX for the new 2008 LX I can truthfully say that this car is a comfortable pleasure to drive. Road noise has been reduced as well. The first thing I noticed was the performance over the 2001. It was much livelier and with the 5 speed automatic, the engine runs considerably slower at high speeds and has plenty of passing capability. Fuel economy is great, first tank fill got me 38 mpg 20% city and 80% highway) I commute 50K a year in California so the gas mileage and comfort are a big plus for me. I would highly recommend the Civic for those folks looking for both economy and comfort.

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  Si: Best Sports Car Around - 2000 Honda Civic
  By PJ Mac - February 2 - 10:00 am

  I have had nothing but fun with this car, and it is the best car on gas, handling, and of course Performance! and they also dont make this body style ne more, so if u find one Grab it fast!!

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  awesome - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By brady - February 2 - 10:00 am

  the best suv in the world