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:

• 

  Honda accord - 2017 Honda Accord
  By Suzana Berisha - November 26 - 10:25 am

  This my third Honda in my family its a great car but the basic one should have power seatnot manual seats . The rest of the stuff its great love it

• 

  Great Little Car! - 2009 Honda Civic
  By jason60050 - November 26 - 9:30 am

  I have been waiting about three months to purchase my new vehicle and I finally decided on a Civic. I had purchased a brand new one back in 2002 and this 2009 is by far a much nicer car, the visibility, comfort and build quality.

• 

  CRV is a great car overall - 2017 Honda CR-V
  By Joe Turchetti - November 26 - 6:44 am

  This car offers nearly everything that we were looking for. The only thing that it lacks is height adjustable passenger seat. None of Hondas vehicles offer this feature at any level. Competitors (although not all) do offer this as standard equipment. I think that the car is great otherwise.

• 

  2010 Pilot EX 4WD - 2010 Honda Pilot
  By dblshock - November 25 - 8:26 pm

  This is a large comfortable vehicle that rolls like a vault at highway speed yet is nimble in town, a joy to drive with people, amazing, very large items will fit inside with 2ond & 3rd tier seats down..as my work platform taking calls the large cockpit functions well with many storage spaces and flat areas to take notes..drive- train and suspension are Honda benchmark quality and Im really hooked on the appearance now..did the 60/2.9% finance and TMV pricing..difficult to beat over time.

• 

  2010 Pilot Touring - 2010 Honda Pilot
  By Gary0554 - November 25 - 2:52 pm

  2010 Pilot after my first month has been impressive. Fuel economy has been average but the rugged design and handling make up for it. Steering is very good and the seats are very comfortable. The large number of options on the touring take time to learn but once you learn they are great. The navigation system is outstanding, along with the backup system. The automatic climate control system is very good.

• 

  Still love my 2014 Honda Accord - 2014 Honda Accord
  By CW - November 25 - 4:11 am

  This is a great car.

• 

  Nav EX 4 Cyl Accord - 2005 Honda Accord
  By Charles Hotze III - November 25 - 3:53 am

  Have gotten up to 42.7 miles per gallon when I was on a trip and not in a hurry. It handles well. Navigation System is outstanding. Leather holding up well to normal use. Wish they would reinstate U.S. availability of a matching telephone connection for hands free operation through the speakers and microphone that are in the car. Literature shows that this used to be available for Motorola and several other phone brands, but Honda of America has taken this feature away from the U.S. buyer. I understand it can still be had in Japan though. Otherwise, I love this car and will buy another for my wife, who also finds the ride and handling to be just what she likes.

• 

  The Best - 2006 Honda Accord
  By Hossjoee - November 25 - 3:40 am

  Basically, this is midsize car to get. Dont look anywhere else and the 4 has plenty of power

• 

  Fantastic Commuter Car - 2010 Honda Fit
  By jeffdawgfan - November 24 - 11:04 pm

  Traded in 2008 Altima Coupe SE. I commute 120 miles/day so wanted something with better mileage. My commute is combo 50% rolling hills, 25% steep mountain, 25% city. Engine/Transmission: I have the 5 spd auto. The engine will not win any drag races but is peppy and gets the job done. Very well mated with the 5 spd auto trans. The paddle shifters are useful when driving mountains or passing. Design and style are very pleasing. Paint and fitings are quality, even if many are plastic. Comfort on a 60 mile leg of commute is average. I am 62", 235 lbs and have plenty of room. 2" of spare head room. Gas mileage at 800 miles. 38 mpg on average commute. Audio....Average.

• 

  Happy Buyer - 2010 Honda Odyssey
  By sthornton77 - November 24 - 9:55 pm

  Really like our van. Would highly recommend to anyone thinking about a minivan, especially anyone with kids. Very kid friendly. Low total cost of ownership.