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 Vehicle - 1995 Honda Civic
  By Govione - March 19 - 2:00 am

  Riding a 1995 Honda Civic Ex Coupe is pleasurable. Its interior comfort is great and its performance is almost excellent. The EX model is powerful though lacks much horsepower. It should have brought a twin cam Vtec system. Ive been a couple of years with it and had not a single problem with it. It has a beautiful exterior design because of its sportish, modern design. Overall Ill rate it excellent

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  A car with two personalities - 1999 Honda Civic
  By m_manalac - March 19 - 2:00 am

  I got my 99 Si in mid 1999 and never regret the purchase. It has been very reliable and fun to drive. After 4+ years of owning it, I still get $10000+ offers for it!

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  2003-EX CRV-Almost There! - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By Coudie - March 19 - 2:00 am

  I too looked around and narrowed it down to the Tribute and the CR-V. Since I had owned previous Hondas, I went with the known entity. The 4 cylinder is very peppy, more so than most V-6s I have driven. Its pretty economical, though I felt gas mileage would be better, averaging about 21-22 mpg local. Interior design needs work, the gear shift needs to be on the floor as one can knockout of gear by trying to change radio stations! Heated exterior mirrors would also be beneficial as well as intermittent wipers. All in all, for the price, its a very tidy package. Service needs to be more responsive...

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  My First Honda - 2008 Honda Accord
  By alex - March 18 - 11:53 am

  I have owned this coupe for 2 months now, and overall I am happy with the purchase. Definitely different than driving an Expedition. Gas mileage at first wasnt great but having reached 2500 miles, it seemed to go up dramatically in city driving. 17 mpg average to 20.7 mpg average. Hwy avg. mpg is 26, but havent gone out of town lately, it may be more. VCM/ECO did surge a lot when I first bought it, now just does it ever so often, usually only when accelerating from a low speed. Ride is great, power is awesome.

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  Great value for your money - 2008 Honda Civic
  By tsheata - March 18 - 11:36 am

  I looked at purchasing the Ford Fusion, Ford Focus, Honda Civic, and Honda Accord. The civic is great to drive around town and fits nicely in spots that larger models cannot fit. The gas mileage is great and it is very responsive and sporty. Furthermore, the resale value is great on these vehicles. Very happy with the civic.

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  First Honda...... - 2009 Honda Accord
  By Great Car!! - March 18 - 7:13 am

  This is my first Honda, I do have to admit its a fun car. Not to mention the reputation of this car was the reason why I went from a Monte Carlo SS (07) to a honda accord fully loaded. So far so good... I hope with the proper maintenance it will last as long as my brothers accord with no problems (12 years.)

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  I love it! - 2000 Honda Insight
  By AG4dillac - March 18 - 2:00 am

  Have owned my Insight for 4 years with no problems. Its a blast to drive with great lower gears acceleration and overdrive higher gears for quiet extremely low RPM high speed cruising. Its still tight as a drum and wind noise is negligible due to its best production car aerodymanics. Sky high gas prices are of no concern with a lifetime average of 52mpg driving it like any other car, without concern for gas mileage. And it still gets thumbs up almost daily.

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  Great Car - 1996 Honda Civic
  By Byron - March 18 - 2:00 am

  In my opinion the Civic is my favorite car in the world. Okay, so it doesnt have the horses or it doesnt have that stylish look compared to the new generation... but performance wise, the Civic can match the rest. Not to mention the great gas mileage it produces. I am very pleased with my Civic.

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  Honda Pilot - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Mark S. - March 17 - 10:33 pm

  This SUV is great for the family with younger teenagers. Plenty of room and features are great. It handles well and is a great value. It does not get good gas mileage. I have never received the mileage that is posted on it. It gets about 12-17 MPG. It stated 22-28. Big difference. Otherwise, a wise investment.

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  great overall transportation - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By proud owner - March 17 - 9:50 pm

  The Honda Odyssey Touring van has many features that appeal to my driving habits. The easy opening doors allow my kids to just climb in a buckle up. The rear hatch does not strain my shoulder anymore while loading groceries in that large deep well. It is easy to manuever in traffic.