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 Value - 2000 Honda Civic
  By Si-ren - October 6 - 2:00 am

  This is my second Civic and Im shopping for my third. Just a great car all around. Couldnt ask for anything more for the price. Excellent value retention, low maintenance, quiet, reliable, economical, attractive. A++++++

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  Best choice for family needs - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Did my homework - October 6 - 2:00 am

  Purchased the first Pilot in the county. Liked the price value even at MSRP compared to other similiar sized SUVs. Wanted the room of a minivan but the look of SUV. The Pilot was right choice for 80% of my needs (family of 5, camper, reliability, traction in snow).

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  You Must Consider the CRV! - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By roachjl - October 6 - 2:00 am

  Ive put about 3000 miles on my CRV and I love it. I havent had any problems. Its bigger than the old model, and can comfortably seat five adults. The cargo space is big when the seats are folded down. Its fun to drive with acceleration much better than I expected. Fuel economy could be better, but Ill give it more time. This car has a lot of features that make in comfortable to drive, there was a lot of thought put into this vehicle. Plus it has the insurance institues highest safety rating. My only problem is visibility. I think the rear pillars interfere with the view occasionally. Not a major problem though.

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  I just love it - 2002 Honda Civic
  By Emil - October 6 - 2:00 am

  OMG...I got such a great deal on the car how can I not love it. Since the first day I saw this car on the road I wanted one. I am so happy I didnt buy that Su

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  Excellent Honda - 1991 Honda Civic
  By jclaunch - October 5 - 2:00 am

  This car my have simple styling by todays standards, but an excellent example of Honda quality and reliability. Excellent vehicle.

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  1993 Honda Accord SE - 1993 Honda Accord
  By siera326 - October 5 - 2:00 am

  Love my car. Ive never had any problems except with the power windows and the lighter socket.

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  Standard Honda Quality - 1999 Honda Odyssey
  By stargazerm31 - October 5 - 2:00 am

  After four years of driving, this van is still holding its own. Only problems were with the bad Firestone tires. Once changed to Michelin, we have had no problems. The fold down third row makes this a very versital vehicle.

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  Repeat Accord Owner - 2006 Honda Accord
  By Loyal Honda Owner - October 4 - 8:03 am

  I am very pleased with my Accord, Nothing but the best in workmanship and quality. The four banger (2006) is amazingly fast, hard to believe it is a four cylinder; very quick acceleration. This is my second accord traded 2001 vp,the best decision so far. The standard features are great!!! DRLs (Daytime Running Lamps), LED brake Lamps, Heated seats and mirrors, 8 air bags, 4 disc brakes, 6-CD changer stereo,Alarm, Best crash test results in class, and most of all best quality, reliability, and luxury for a honda. First day took a 500 mile trip (Round Trip) and it drove great...Test drove both cars 4- cyclinder and V6, both were great decided on the four because of the quick acceleration.Get 1

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  Love This Car - 2007 Honda Civic
  By lynn - October 3 - 7:13 pm

  I have had my Civic for two months now and LOVE it! I drive about 360 per week and average 36 mpg. This is a huge improvement from my 1999 Tahoe, lol. There is a blind spot in the rear of the car, and the XM ready is a joke. My husband researched how to install it himself and the pictures looked like Civic brain surgery. I must say the fuel mileage more than makes up for any complaints. Fuel in my area has risen to 3.59 a gallon. I love to look and see what the giant SUV next to me is paying for a tank of gas. I always laugh and think glad that isnt me anymore! Also, I am a mother of two and my daughter fit very comfortably in the back seat. All and all this is a wonderful car.

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  Buy a Toyota next time - 2007 Honda Civic
  By ken808 - October 3 - 5:26 pm

  This is the worst car I have ever owned. The fuel mileage has been terrible, barely 24-25 mpg overall. The transmission performs poorly in first gear, providing a jerk whenever the accelerator is touched or released. Customer service from the dealer and Honda is non-existent. They refuse to answer my letters in writing - I guess they dont want any evidence! The digital speedometer is a pain.