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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  our FIRST new car! - 2005 Honda Accord
  By napszoo - November 1 - 12:00 am

  We purchased our first new car in November, and weve been together 13 years with two children, lots of sports and running around. We researched many cars and in the end, we always went back to the Hondas...the deal we got on the DX was INCREDIBLE...we paid less than 13,000 with no trade in, brand new, off the lot for a 2005....it has already got almost 15,000 miles on it and we LOVE IT...roomy for the 4 of us, huge trunk....great ergonomics inside...looks great outside too...our gas mileage has been about what it stated, maybe a little under...but that is when my husband is driving :-) very dependable....no problems thus far and I know people with Honda Accords with 250,000 + miles...

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  Honda 2016 Civic EX-L - 2016 Honda Civic
  By Daniel Belshaw - October 31 - 6:10 pm

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  Civiv Hybrid -Home Run - 2008 Honda Civic
  By Wayne S - October 31 - 4:23 pm

  I went from driving a Grand Prix for the last 20 years (6 cars) to a Civic Hybrid, and couldnt be more pleased. It is a solid car, with lots of technology, and actually fun to drive. I am averaging 46.4 mpg, with 50/50 city/hwy. driving. I love the challenge to keep the mileage over 50 mpg. for many of my trips. I am glad I bought it when I did, because they are now hard to find in the Twin cities.

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  I love this car! - 2011 Honda Accord Crosstour
  By monicrown - October 31 - 4:15 pm

  This is a great vehicle! Im very proud to drive my Crosstour! It looks unique and turns head. Its a great combination between sporty and luxury!!

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  Everything I Wanted - 2009 Honda Fit
  By Robin Kelly - October 31 - 3:10 pm

  We bought a white Honda Fit in November and just love it. I did a lot of research before deciding on the Fit and dont regret my decision at all. In fact, I dont feel envious at all of those more expensive luxury models on the road. The Fit is very practical, but still manages somehow to have a sense of fun. Many people who thought I was crazy for buying a Fit are now very impressed. Overall, a very well thought out little car that doesnt feel cramped.

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  Id buy another - 2000 Honda Accord
  By ak145 - October 31 - 12:13 pm

  Purchased a Honda for the first time used. I am very pleased with the car. Very minor problems, alternator, emmisions valve, all covered under waranty. In each instance the dealer worked with me with no hassles. Honda service is nothing like dealing with the Chevy house. I have had good luck with repairs, and the car is always ready when it is supposed to be.

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  Its a Honda... - 1997 Honda Accord
  By ickes - October 31 - 10:00 am

  A blend of the EX trim features with mechanicals from the LX, the SE offers a mid-level option. If I had to do it again, I would have bought the EX with 20 more horsepower. Everything else about this car is perfect - a classic Honda.

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  Great vehicle - 2003 Honda Element
  By lauredmo - October 31 - 10:00 am

  Everyone stops and comments on the car. They really like it. People are always looking and pointing. I believe I would but another one after this gets old.

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  Freedom - 2003 Honda Element
  By cats4me - October 31 - 10:00 am

  I love this vehicle. I took it on a long trip and found that it handled well fit everything and was so easy to keep clean. The fuel economy was excellent and was not bothered by any wind noise at all.

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  I love my CRV - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By LASusie - October 31 - 10:00 am

  This has been a great vehicle. I love the size and the turning radius is excellent. A bit of a problem with blind spots, but Id buy another.