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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  good - 1999 Honda Civic
  By mattsfgbwtbwtwasb - July 10 - 2:00 am

  good deal on a reliable car. the road noise is the worst thing about this car.

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  No Pilots License Required, But Wow! - 2006 Honda Civic
  By rrock - July 9 - 10:00 pm

  Who would have thought 20 years ago that the Honda Civic would be one of the greatest cars on the road? The EX model Coupe holds up well to luxury cars costing twice as much or more. I love the driving feel of this car. It has a tremendous amount of power that if you really want to pass a vehicle on a two lane road – go for it! The exterior is a head turner with its clean lines and little to interfere with our average 34 MPG in city and highway driving. We pass gas stations and arrive at trip destinations without fueling up on the way. The interior is a dream for such an inexpensive car. I love the two tiered flight controls, because that is exactly what it feels like. Out of words but...

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  My Fit - 2007 Honda Fit
  By Juan - July 9 - 4:23 pm

  I waited 2 months to get this car and it was well worth the wait.

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  Honda will not fix sulfur smell - 2004 Honda Accord
  By SmellyAccord - July 9 - 3:00 am

  I purchased a Honda Accord LX from Marty Sussman Honda on 3/15/2004. From the very beginning there was a rotten egg smell that would permeate the entire interior of the car. The dealer acknowledges that it smells. Honda actually has a pre-printed paper stating that the smell comes from too much sulfur in the gas. Honda claims the car is "operating according to specifications".Why would you design a car to run on lower sulfur fuel when there is no low sulfur gas suppliers outside of California.I asked where can I get the right gas and they did not know. Honda denied any responsibility so I contacted a lemon law lawyer that said Im not the only case that they have handled with this problem.

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  I love it but beware - 1999 Honda Accord
  By KAH - July 9 - 2:00 am

  I absolutely love this car. Only problem is that I have been experiencing transmission problems since about 2.5 years ago, but it was just minor (or so I thought) rough shifting. I took it in and was told that everything looked ok. Just this past weekend the transmission failed on me at 91K. After doing research I found out that this is a known issue and a recall has been issued for the 2000-2001 models. http://www.auto.com/industry/iwirg21_20020921.htm. I am trying to get the dealership to take care of it. Wish me luck.

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  Great Car! - 2005 Honda Accord
  By Kristiemk - July 8 - 10:40 pm

  I recently purchased the Accord V-6 with leather. I love it. Its comfortable, pleanty of room in the back seats. The stereo system is awesome, it handles well & tons of power!!!!! There are so many neat little features to this car, youll be reading the book alot to find them all. My husband & I actually fight over whos going to drive!!! We researched cars alot & test drove all of them, & this was the BEST car we looked at. I absolutely recommed it.

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  Has exceeded my expectations. - 2016 Honda Pilot
  By Phil - July 8 - 10:21 pm

  Stereo sound quality is poor. Everything else on the car has exceeded my expectations. Very happy with the purchase.

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  The Truth Youll Hear From Me - 2007 Honda Civic
  By StarryStarryNight - July 8 - 6:46 pm

  I love my new car. The gas mileage is supposed to be excellent: 30 in the city and 40 on the highway. Ive had the car a week and still have a half tank of gas. It must be true. Gas will NEVER go down; why buy a gas guzzler? The doors are made high, which makes me feel safer. Some cars have too much glass. I wouldnt feel safe in a side collision in such a car. Id suggest silver; it shows less dirt. White is pretty on this type of car; black, too, but blk shows dirt easier. There is a light blue which is handsome. I have mudguards. Glad to have them. The dash is cavernous. Buy a duster. This car looks more like a fine European car; what with its back-seat head restraints.

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  Dont buy a 2008 Honda - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Natalie - July 8 - 3:30 am

  Have you ever bought a car just because of the name? Well I did and it was the biggest mistake. I am trying to find a dealership that will take it back. For over 25,000 I expected perfection. The sound of the road is so loud that I can barely hear anyone on the phone. The air doesnt blow as cool when I press the gas. I have to open the door wide just to get out of it without hitting side and I am only 115 lbs. The blind spots are out of this world. I am beyond displeased with Honda. Yes, maybe past models were better, but they have truly ruined their brand in my opinion with this car. Yes, it looks great, but that is about it. I should have stayed in my Altima! Take my word...dont buy!!

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  awesome truck - 2007 Honda Ridgeline
  By johnsi - July 8 - 2:50 am

  excellent 0-60, hwy driving is like a car, fun to drive, 4 wheel drive in mud works like a charm. feels solid and high end.