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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  10,000 miles on a Hybrid - 2007 Honda Civic
  By Greg in NC - April 21 - 10:00 pm

  Just turned 10,000 miles on our 2007 Civic Hybrid. After having for about 8 months now Ive grown to appreciate the car and what it offers. First, I find it comfortable and Im over 6 foot. The AC systems works well. Ride remains good, although there is some road noise. I find the engine peppy for what it is, and that is a gas saver. You want fast acceleration - buy a Corvette. This car will go easily with the pack. Recent 1,200 mile trip averaged 47+ and 48.11 on the way home. And I ran with traffic. Car likes to be on cruise control. About 60MPH is the best speed to max fuel economy. I keep tires pumped to 33PSI and I use 5w20 synthetic oil.

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  great looking economical car - 2006 Honda Civic
  By mike fleming - April 21 - 6:13 pm

  This is a great little car. comfortable, reliable, 40 mpg, good looking, quiet, good in snow.

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  Indy HR-V Owner - 2016 Honda HR-V
  By Dominic Ledwith - April 21 - 11:24 am

  Awesome car for people that want what a CR-V used to be, without the overbearing modern CR-V price and size!

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  Great car overall - 1994 Honda Prelude
  By JC15 - April 21 - 2:00 am

  This is a great car both fun and reliable. The space is a setback, but its a fast car and the look is never outdated. Ive had this car for 10 years and its never let me down so far. Sad to see the Prelude discontinued, but much props to Honda for coming out with such a great car.

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  The Civic - 1997 Honda Civic
  By Weasel661 - April 21 - 2:00 am

  My Civic was the second car I ever bought, and it is really fun to drive, It isnt the fastest car out there, but it sure is not the slowest. I really enjoy my Civic, and am extremely glad that I bought it!

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  Lovin it!! - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By TLC911 - April 21 - 2:00 am

  My last car was a Ford Escort and this is my first SUV. We love it! Its cute, fun to drive and extremely comfortable. I have noticed a noise in the brakes when starting out in the mornings and have had 3 recalls in 9 months. We love the sunroof, stereo, and the idea of side air bags. My CRV is black and scratches and swirls in the paint were there when I bought it. I am teaching my daughter how to drive and feel very safe in this vehicle and feel that she is much safer as a first time driver. I love the arms rests and the cargo room. Whenever anyone gets in my CRV, they always comment on how much room there is in both the front and back seats.

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  Amazing - 2009 Honda Pilot
  By Joe - April 20 - 10:03 pm

  I am 58 years old and have had numerous vehicles, cars and pick-ups; the Pilot is the one vehicle I have truly enjoyed. Before I bought the Pilot I researched the Edge; Flex; the Honda CRV and a couple of others, finally cutting my choices down to the above 3 vehicles. I researched the vehicles on line and then went to a few dealerships, stopping at a Honda dealer last to check out the CRV. On the floor was the Pilot, it had the room I wanted and a nav unit which I felt was a must, one test ride and I was hooked. By controlling my speed I average right at 24 MPG highway driving which for all the size and comfort is acceptable

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  This car is a step UP from the RSX - 2007 Honda Civic
  By Jeff C - April 20 - 7:56 pm

  Dont be fooled, just because this is an entry level Honda, doesnt mean you dont get the most bang for your buck. Opt for the navi, summer tires and you wont be sorry. Like a mini luxury car with a hotrod engine.

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  Great, but room to improve - 2007 Honda Ridgeline
  By Matt - April 20 - 1:46 pm

  I fell in love with this truck because one it had the honda name attached and because it was different than the domestic trucks comanding the road (other than the Avelanche). I wished that the truck inside would have been more stylish with more curves rather than the cuts like the knee room for the driver! Plus maybe an additioanl option of a V-8? and u thought that the MPG could have been better but it is still decent.

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  Perfect To Drive - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Perfect for Travel - April 20 - 8:26 am

  After driving my Pilot I will never go back to my Explorer. PERFECT for travel and ease of driving. More leg room and great for the tall person or the average person.