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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  FIT for a King/Queen - 2007 Honda Fit
  By Bonnie Bloss - September 30 - 5:03 am

  This new Honda is FIT for a Queen or King. Great gas mileage, plenty of get up and go power and plenty of room. I was amazed at what this car can do. Handles like a midsize car, and gives you mileage per gallon like a motorcycle. Fit is stylish, compact and everyone stops you to ask what kind of car it is and where can they get one. This is a winner.

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  Still Going Strong - 1995 Honda Passport
  By tantrums3 - September 30 - 2:00 am

  We bought this new in 95 -8 years ago. We have not put a penny into this SUV for any repairs whatsoever! Absolutely the best, most reliable vehicle weve ever owned. Would like something newer now,just because, but will definitely get a new Passport.

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  Great Family Car - 1997 Honda Odyssey
  By rumrazz - September 30 - 2:00 am

  I have owned this car for over 3 years and I am the second owner. This car has really worked for us with two growing teenagers and taxing their friends around. The captain seats in the second row are a real bonus for long rides, each child has their own space. I like having all four doors open like a sedan and that all the windows roll down giving everyone air. The third seat is small but so easy to fold down when not in use, leaving a large cargo space.

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  Great car - 1993 Honda Civic
  By Nick93ex - September 30 - 2:00 am

  I bought the car with 149,000 miles on it. I was a little worried that it wouldnt run that good with so many miles, since I had never had a Honda before. It ran great, no problems. I owned the car for about 10months before it was stolen (only downside to hondas) and never had to do anything to it. Of course I did do a few things, like cold air intake, springs, rims etc, but nothing needed to be done. Unlike my old buick which had 120,000 miles on it, and needed to have two valves in the engine replaced and a new transmission put on it, in the 1 year I owned it. Hondas are great cars, period.

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  great gas milage good reliable comuter - 1993 Honda Civic
  By bigjon - September 30 - 2:00 am

  I just reacently purchsased the car with 162000 mi. It runs perfectly and so far I am geting almost 41 MPG power and performance is good for a compact car, ride is solid and comfortable it dose have some road noise at freeway speed but it is a small econamy car what do you expect.

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  AWESOME - 2002 Honda S2000
  By S2000jaybird - September 30 - 2:00 am

  A very fun car to drive. i can pull up next to almost anyone and beat them, believe me, i do!!!! You also get looks from everyone, everyone loves this car

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  My 1995 Honda Wagon - 1995 Honda Accord
  By ct-yank - September 30 - 2:00 am

  This is my 2nd Honda, my 1st was an 85 Accord Hatchback. The only time either Honda wouldnt start was when the battery was dead. My Wagon has 126,000 miles & going strong. Will buy another Honda when the wagon dies....

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  What a Vehicle - 2009 Honda Pilot
  By BlairB - September 29 - 4:53 am

  We set out to buy a Saturn Outlook but after test driving all the competitors, took a look at the 2009 Pilot just to rule it out. Immediately we had to have it. Dont know what the fuss is with the styling, we like it from every angle. We have the Mocha Metallic ext. with beige leather and think it is a very classy combination. I love the drivetrain. With concentration I can feel the VCM but it is very imperceptible. Ride is very smooth without being floaty. Handles great. Very solid feeling, doors slam shut like a Mercedes. Awesome seats and features for the money. Would not mind another couple mpg but easy on gas for a lg. vehicle. Love the dual exhaust looks and sound.

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  Civic Hybrid AT-PZEV Engine - 2005 Honda Civic
  By Chad S - September 28 - 3:26 pm

  Just purchased it, ride is smooth and quiet for a little car. More headroom than I expected, interior is def. Honda, i.e. plain, but thats OK. Display is nice with MPG per trip and the IMA battery charging/assist meter is nice. Could use more torque but not sure where it would come from, but considering rising gas prices, it is a great car! Hybrid model includes side airbags and ABS.

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  Never knew driving was so much fun! - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Steve - September 28 - 12:23 pm

  I have had my Civic Si now for just 4 days/200 miles. So far, I absolutely love it! The driving performance, interior quality, sound system all surpass what I expected. I was lucky to find one in a local dealers inventory (it was the only Si available in a 30 mile radius from Indianapolis).