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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  The best minivan - 2007 Honda Odyssey
  By nstar - August 5 - 2:56 am

  Recently traded in my old mazda minivan for the new EX-L model. Love this car so far. Much better than Mazda MPV. Very stable, fun to drive. Feel much safer with 10 airbags installed. The rear entertainment is a must-have. Playing the movie keeps all my kids quiet even in a long drive. The sliding door however did not function well. It wont latch completely. Went to the dealer three times to fix it. Make sure check all your features and fix them right away. Overall, very happy with this purchase.

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  Not your fathers Honda! - 2003 Honda S2000
  By Top Banana - August 5 - 2:00 am

  Just starting to go through a mid-life crisis, I felt I needed something to help me with the problem. The S-2000 was it. Good , clean and sexy lines, a nice tight interior. The handling is wonderful. Acceleration is powerful. Even after 3 years of production I still get the looks and stares when I drive by. The car has never seen rain. Is garage kept and stored in the winter. Mileage is low as the time I have to drive it is short. But when the weather and traffic are right...nothing comes close to the thrill. And yes Margaret, its a HONDA!

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  Flat-Out Fun! - 2004 Honda S2000
  By Jim Steele - August 5 - 2:00 am

  With the exception of cargo space, every aspect of the 04 Honda S2000 excels. I traded a BMW M3 convertable (bought it new in 99) and wont look back.

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  Loving My First Honda!! - 1993 Honda Civic
  By GravisMors - August 5 - 2:00 am

  When i first bought this car it had 120k on it. and in the 2 years ive been driving it the car still runs great. i swapped in an acura GS-R motor at 140k. If you thought the car was fun to drive before. It is simply amazing now. The power is amazing, and going up to the 8k rev limiter will def. surprise a few people. the car has had no major problems since i swapped the motor and im now at 156k on the chasis. This car is a definately fun car and not only is it now fast but it handles just as well.

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  LEMON: 5 Transmissions in 56,000 miles - 1999 Honda Odyssey
  By Fis - August 5 - 2:00 am

  You read it correctly. 1st transmission lasted only a few months. The replacement lasted about a year. You read it correctly. 1st transmission lasted only a few months. The replacement lasted about a year. The 3rd transmission lasted the longest -- from 2001 to 2004. The 4th transmission lasted only 3,000 miles and just died on the highway while on a family trip. My automatic doors have also been repaired/adjusted 5 times (sudden door buzzing when hitting bumps in the road). If you want an Odyssey, wait for the all-new 2005 model.

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  Not Bad - 1995 Honda Accord
  By red99 - August 5 - 2:00 am

  Repairs get VERY expensive past 100K miles. SRS system has a problem with low voltage requiring reset at dealership. ABS system known to leak and VERY expensive to replace ~$2000. Replacemnt catlytic converter way overpriced $1000.

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  1997 Honda Accord 4dr LX - 1997 Honda Accord
  By WhiggyNutz - August 5 - 2:00 am

  I bought a Honda because of its reputation and reliability. the last year and a half Ive owned this vehicle Ive never been dissapointed. I am very pleased with every aspect of my Honda and when I run this one into the ground I fully intend on purchasing another.

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  One of the best cars made - 1999 Honda Accord
  By jasmin - August 5 - 2:00 am

  This was my first car and I have to tell you, it was my favourite. Everything about just made me swoon, from the sound of the engine to the comfort of the leather, to even the sunglass holder in the overhead. My parents loved it so much that when my lease was over, they bought it! The only problem I really had was that for a student, it wasnt very good on gas, and the maintenance was expensive from the dealership. Also, my heated seat malfunctioned once and almost burned my butt off! (well at least that was what it felt like) but no other problems. Honda fixed it immediately, and actually gave me coupons for 3 free maintainence checks.

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  Awesome Car Couldnt Ask For Better - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Park - August 4 - 9:56 pm

  This is a great car! Ive had it for a few days now and LOVE the new interior design. I bought the manual because I didnt care for the lack of power of the older model auto Civic Coups and Im certain I made the right decision. There is plenty of get-up-and-go. Cornering is excellent and steering is very tight. Though odd, the most notable improvement I noticed immediately is the design of the cup holders. I cant count the number of times my drink has fallen out of the cup holders in my older Honda. The new one has spring loaded bars that hold your cup in tightly. The 2 power outlets are nice if you have need of them. Trunk is very roomy. Im 62" and there is plenty of room for me!

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  Great value for a great car! - 2016 Honda Accord
  By Charles Martin - August 4 - 6:35 pm