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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  gas milage - 2015 Honda CR-V
  By Michael davis - December 22 - 10:55 pm

  the gas mileage was advertised 26 to 33 miles per gallon. I am not even getting 22 miles per gallon. I have yet to get even 26 miles per gallon. My wife also bought a 2015 crv. same thing mileage about 22 mpg. Blatant false advertising

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  What was I thinking? - 2005 Honda Element
  By Debbie - December 22 - 9:56 pm

  With its one-of-a-kind look, I thought I wanted this vehicle. I have had this car for about 5 months now and this is really not the car for me. I find it to be very impractical. Have had to litterally back out of my parking spot to open the back doors to load groceries and children. Steering wheel blocks the view of the speedometer and I have found it does not handle well around corners. Putting the back seats up blocks visibility. Although,cargo room is great. I Have driven across the state several times with a load full of baseball gear and luggage and could still see out of all the windows. Also nice to drag your big dog around in. Good car for active singles, not families.

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  Nice Ride - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By C Samuels - December 22 - 2:06 pm

  I have owned, the Suzuki Side Kick and the Chevy Tracker.The Honda out performs both hands down. I am really enjoying driving my CRV. It has great pick up and is really comfortable.

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  Bang for the buck with Honda reliability - 2016 Honda HR-V
  By Jim T - December 22 - 3:11 am

  I needed a vehicle with smart packaging, hatchback utility, reasonable fuel economy, and upmost reliability. I work as an automotive instructor and consultant, having experienced the "ins and outs" of the major car companies, it didnt take me long to narrow down my choices to Honda, Mazda, and Toyota. I would have considered Acura and Lexus, yet the price jump for the premium brand is just not justifiable versus the features offered in the parent brands. The new HR-V is by no means perfect, yet there are so many great traits in this little Honda which make you forget about the minor flaws. For comparison, I came from an Accord Sport with the 6 speed manual- no race car- but still a reasonably quick car. I see many voice concerns about the HR-V as being slow (my salesman included), I have found the HR-V is by no means slow, it can get into it traffic and handle hills with ease. The CVT will manage engine rpm to keep efficiency and speed up to par. It should be noted that I typically leave the "ECO MODE" on and leave the transmission in "drive" versus "sport" mode- which greatly enhances throttle response. The AWD is a must for where we live deep in the hills of Massachusetts, I actually purchased Blizzak snow tires, making a proper snow handling evaluation impossible. In my professional opinion, the factory Michelin tires do not appear to be ideal for heavy snow conditions. I drive north to the mountains for snowboarding, making use of my snow tires. The interior of the HR-V is what makes it so special, the magic seat and hatchback combination are amazing and must be experienced to appreciate. There are so many combinations! We can carry the dogs, siblings or grandparents, and gear with ease. The heated cloth seats are holding up well and I was surprised to find that the passenger seat even has seat-back heating. The seat position takes some getting used to; the gas tank is located beneath the front seats under the car, making for a raised platform under the seats. The only interior complaint for me (being 511" guy who wears logging boots) is that the drivers dead-pedal is awkwardly close to the drivers seat, I like to stretch my legs out in a car.

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  Trust Honda ! - 1990 Honda Accord
  By cccc - December 22 - 2:00 am

  Bought a 90 Honda Accord in 2000 with approx. 66000 miles on it. Have it since the last 3-4 years now (approx. 101000 miles on odometer now). The car has an excellent build quality, is roomy and extremely reliable. With just a little regular maintenance like oil change, waxing, cleaning & vacuuming, it has given me the joy of owning an almost new and very reliable car. In every relationship, there has to be equality in giving. In this particular relationship, the car has given me a lot more - I simply love my Honda! I dont have anything negative to say - just a lot of positives - my experience tells me youll never go wrong with Honda.

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  Positive Review - 2003 Honda Insight
  By Charliebm04 - December 22 - 2:00 am

  Bought the car 12/18/2004. this is a new 2004 with a few Improvements. The Dealership. I would rate at a 3 they did the paper work and that was it. The salesman, Spencer: never even met him, he had another salesman do the work. The car However. Fantastic, 67mpg right off the showroom floor. The acceleration really suprised me. It has the git up and go when you need it. For and general runaround or work car. There is no better car on the Market, YET. C-mon Honda you can do better. C-mon People, Keep your website up to date.

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  A great car - 1993 Honda Accord
  By hat - December 22 - 2:00 am

  I am now selling my 1993 Honda Accord because, with our kids gone, we have one car too many... but I part with it with great regret. Mileage is good, and it has had no major mechanical problems. Very, very reliable. I have never kept a car with 131,000 miles, but this one drives as good as ever.

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  93HondaLX - 1993 Honda Accord
  By zdriver - December 22 - 2:00 am

  It doesnt seem to want to wear out. It maintains its good looks inside and out. Its one of the prettiest Hondas ever made. The mechanics are second to none.

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  Ody Paint Job - 2008 Honda Odyssey
  By jlsxpressllc - December 21 - 11:50 pm

  Vehicle seems to drive well except for a slight pull to the right. Transmission seems to hunt when driving slowly around town. Does much better when given a little gas and highway speeds.

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  Love My CRV - 1998 Honda CR-V
  By Butr - December 21 - 2:00 am

  I love my CRV, it fits my lifestyle and I couldnt be happier with it.