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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  GREAT CAR - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Toddlat - January 21 - 2:00 am

  I traded in my 2000 EX-V6 Coupe on this model, and cant believe the difference. This car is smoother, quieter, more sleek, and more comfortable than the previous model. The extra horsepower in the V6 makes a huge difference, and the navigation system is easy to use and helpful. Its a great car and definitely a head- turner on the road.

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  Fast Car - 2003 Honda Accord
  By John Blankenship - January 21 - 2:00 am

  This car has everything that is needed. Very well thought out car

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  Amazing all-around car - 2003 Honda Accord
  By WCC - January 21 - 2:00 am

  I had test driven just about everything else (Passat, Camry, Altima, etc.) when I finally got to the Accord. I had seen the commercials on TV and the exterior styling just didnt stir me enough to want one badly. But the test drive convinced me! I felt the ride was nearly identical to the VW Passat and all the convenience features inside (storage spaces, power ports, 8 cup holders, etc.) and all the creature comforts of the LX give you the sense that youre getting too much "bang-for- the-buck" to pass on.

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  First 18K very good - 2017 Honda Accord Hybrid
  By Gerald Marker - January 20 - 5:49 pm

  We purchased the car new in August of 2016. Since then we have logged 18000 miles at an average of 42 mpg. The only feature we dont really like, but are willing to put up with to get the engine/power train we wanted, is the lack of rear fold down seats, which I believe is "fixed" on the 2018 models. On hard acceleration the engine makes itself known but with normal driving one hardly knows it is there. Using Apple Car Play to get the navigation system is a bit awkward but worth it given the expense of the built in system. We really would prefer knobs to the touch screen. Last July while driving to Boise our sunroof exploded for no reason. We were lucky to have the inner shade closed so we werent showered with broken glass. Overall we are pleased with the car and hope that the innovative power train design proves to be as reliable as the one used by Toyota. It is difficult to understand why one doesnt see more Hybrid Accords on the road? If I were buying again I would also consider a hybrid Camry.

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  love it - 2005 Honda Element
  By Kimitha - January 20 - 5:30 pm

  It is like this car was designed just for me. I love it. It drives like and feels like a car but with the room of a van. Its stain resistant seats, and easy clean floors make this the perfect car for slobs like me. My job requires me to haul around lumber to a sofa all which fit perfectly into this car.

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  Gas Mileage - 2007 Honda Odyssey
  By Richard - January 20 - 10:36 am

  Just received the EX-L on July 2nd. First gas mileage was 19 MPG (mixed). The first highway MPG was 28.8. Air temp 70F, speed 62-66 mph, small rolling hills, with a light load. Starts and stops can be much smoother than with my 2000 Subaru Outback, (220,000 miles). The all-windows-down when unlocking and many safety features are great. For example, if the sliding door window is down the door will only open 75%. I plan on the van lasting 250,000 miles.

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  We love our Fit! - 2007 Honda Fit
  By Jingold - January 20 - 9:00 am

  We absolutely love our Honda Fit. We havent experienced any problems. It is very comfortable to drive and gets great gas mileage. I would definitely recommend this vehicle to anyone who asks. It is a fun, safe, reliable vehicle with a lot of cargo space.

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  The Best - 2017 Honda Ridgeline
  By Michael Minor - January 19 - 1:54 pm

  This is the best vehicle I have ever owned

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  Best working car - 2008 Honda Civic
  By ausome working car - January 18 - 12:53 pm

  This car is one of a kind I got mine when I turned 16 and Im still loving it. I have not once had a problem with it whatsoever. Its real quiet too when youre driving unlike other loud cars. The gas by the way is amazing - I cut a lot of money off spending for gas because this car does a good job on it. Also if you like to work on cars for shows this civic is the ultimate car to do it to. I installed subs, neons, lambo doors, suicide seats, interior neon, and put things on the motor for speed. It is a great car to work on.

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  Great Car, More Reliable than Domestics - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By Jeff Webb - January 18 - 3:43 am

  For those of you looking to buy a new vehicle, the CR-V is the way to go! The acceleration is adequate and smooth throughout. Fold the seats ahead and the back becomes a great roomy area for dogs. It handles great during inclement weather, very stable with a smaller chance of rollover than larger SUVs. Honda made a wise decision by not increasing the size of this car as so many have done!