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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  2003 Honda Odyssey - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By rabatson - April 15 - 2:00 am

  The 2003 Honday Odyssey is perfect except for one thing: road noise thru the sliding doors. Ive had my doors checked (the noise thru the passenger door being particularly loud) by the dealership I purchased it from and they say everything is normal. The front passenger often cannot hear a normal conversation in the van due to the noise coming into thru the sliding door behind him. Ive talked to other Odyssey owners and they say its not a problem for them.

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  New honda - 2016 Honda Accord
  By paul gawin - April 14 - 7:18 pm

  I have a 2001 accord and love it. Looking forward to enjoying my new one for many years to come. Very sharp car.

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  Awesome Ride! - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Rod - April 14 - 2:06 pm

  The first 1,500 miles have been a lot of fun. I am very pleased with the cornering and superb handling of this car. Initially the dashboard controls were a little intimidating, but it doesnt take long to get comfortable with them. Everything is placed perfectly. Voice commands are logical and easy to remember. Ive been averaging 28 mpg per tank since about 1,000 miles. No problems. Glad I made the right choice.

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  Good car fair price - 2005 Honda Civic
  By Nick - April 14 - 5:56 am

  I bought this car because I was in need of a car that was good on gas mileage. I travel a average of 4,000 miles per month. This car does not requiring oil changes every 3,000 miles, but it requires them every 7,000, so I save a lot of money on basic upkeep. Most of the miles I drive are on the highway. I average around 43 mpg on highway. I would probably get more if I kept my foot out of the pedal. If you are looking for a mid priced vehicle that you want to get your money out of. this is it. Low cost on fuel and low cost on upkeep.

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  Prelude SI - 1993 Honda Prelude
  By R Tizzle - April 14 - 2:00 am

  When i purchased my Prelude it got me in a lot of trouble. Its FAST and sporty but, chicks will look twice when they see you in a Prelude. Getting premium unleaded gas is a drag but definately worth the performance.

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  Great little car - 1994 Honda Civic
  By jeffinsac - April 14 - 2:00 am

  Great little car. Only one problem (clutch master cylinder) in 10 years of ownership. Very reliable. I have the antilock brake option (with 4 wheel disk) and I have yet to replace the original brakes after 107K miles. Could use better front seats and a bit more power under the hood though. Great mileage although has dropped 1-3 mpg the last year.

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  Honda Wagon Review - 1992 Honda Accord
  By dresserd - April 14 - 2:00 am

  I cannot say enough good things about this vehicle. You put in the key, turn it, and it always goes. It was perfect for you young family (with dog, A/C in the back for Clipperdog). A bit tight now with teenagers. Incredible realiability, nice styling, still gets 30 mpg highway. Very pleased would buy again.

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  Katie Reds Box on Wheels - 2003 Honda Element
  By katie red - April 14 - 2:00 am

  This is a great vehicle for anyone young or old. It is great for long road trips or for just around the block. Ive enjoyed my Element so much and I just love to see the reaction of people who havent seen one before how the stare in amazement.

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  Good Car - But Watch Rear Impact - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By Brian - April 14 - 12:03 am

  I actually love my CR-V. I have had it since December. On highway - gets advertised mileage. Around town (with some highway), only about 17MPG (this is the Auto, 2WD model.) One thing that bothers me is there is no rear bumper per se. I was rear ended this week - Nissan Altima doing about 5MPH. Pushed the back of the CR-V in about 1/2". Crushed the trunk (the wheel well under the floor.) When I crawled under it, there really is no bumper. The back of the vehicle is the bumper. I do not like that - this will be a VERY expensive repair bill. Like others have said, road noise is L- O-U-D .... have to turn the radio up to 60% or more to hear it when on the highway.

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  EX-L 6000 miles update (4cyl/5MT) - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Hannibal Mike - April 13 - 3:46 pm

  I traded my 1997 Eclipse Spyder GST convertible (turbo 4 cyl/5MT) for an Accord EX-L sedan (4 cyl/5MT) when I turned 60. Aside from missing the turbos acceleration, Ive preferred the Accords better mileage, handling and comfort. I averaged 34-35 mpg after 6000 miles (~90% highway driving). Lowest mpg was 29 mpg (~50% local driving with A/C); highest mpg was 40 mpg (driving 60 mph w/o A/C on Midwest highways). This Accord is the only large car I found with upscale comfort/amenities and a good manual transmission. The manual transmission lets me control the car better and achieve higher mileage.