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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  This is an AMAZING car!! - 2016 Honda Civic
  By Paul Sevick - September 22 - 6:20 am

  If you are looking for a reliable, affordable, sporty compact sedan look no further. The new redesign on the 2016 Civic is absolutely stunning! Hard to believe what options you get for the money, have the EX model and it pretty much has everything you would and then some. Looks way more expensive than it is, drives smooth and handles like a sports car, great acceleration with the 2.0L engine, super comfortable, tons of options, zero complaints on this vehicle.

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  Worth every penny... - 1994 Honda Civic
  By Dallas1 - September 22 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car new in 94 and it has not let me down in 9 years. The car is the most realiable car I have ever owned. I have taken it in for the regularly scheduled maintanence and it runs just as great as when I first purchased it!

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  Seattle Silver/moonroof honda - 1992 Honda Accord
  By Verthea - September 22 - 2:00 am

  I loved my Honda and still do. it starts like a top and rides well. We have a new Camry and like it, but it doesnt start right on the first turn of the key and Im not kidding. Think we need to take it back and see why. having trouble selling the Honda as they think were asking too much. But everyone of the 100+ people love it, but dont have the money.

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  So far, I love it - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By joey - September 22 - 1:23 am

  It is so much fun to drive so far. I love the stereo and the sunroof. I wish the gas milage was a little better, but I am working on careful driving.

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  1st Honda - impressed so far - 2005 Honda Accord
  By TNAccord - September 22 - 12:43 am

  After a year with my 2005 Accord EX Sedan (4-cyl 5-speed), I must say Im impressed with its overall quality. Ive had zero mechanical or electrical problems with the car, which is a first for any new car Ive purchased. Car feels very tight and handles great, though "pep" of the 4-cyl (even in 5-speed) is not as good as on my previous car (a 93 BMW 318i). Only disappointment so far is a rattle coming from the headliner area of the passengers side rear, where the post meets headliner. Hasnt been a big enough headache to warrant a special trip to the dealer, but will have it addressed at my next oil change.

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  It Continues to Evolve - 2017 Honda Accord
  By T Deakins - September 21 - 2:37 pm

  The car itself is great albeit a little more still than I like and road noisy. Many of the driving aids are little more than half-steps, e.g.; blind spot detection is only in one side, why not both? … the adaptive cruise will not stop the car … the lane departure system constantly challenges the driver over whos going to steer the car. The nav and radio requires paging multiple screens to get to what you want … this can quite a distraction.

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  LOADS OF FUN FOR A SMALL PRICE!!!!!!! - 1992 Honda Civic
  By Stedman05 - September 21 - 2:00 am

  I love it. It has great handling, acceleration for a car w/ a 102hp, lots of cargo room, cool looks, and GREAT mpg. The car looks great for a 92 w/ a simple yet sporty design. The acceleration is great especially w/ the 5-spd. The seats are great. They have lots of side bolstering for hips, ribs, and a little for shoulders. They have great lumbar support too. The handling is great. You dont have to worry about hitting anyone in parking lots. I would suggest getting one without PS, because you get a better feel of the road. Dont forget the 35/40 mpg you get with the car. If you want a cool little car but on a budget, this is the car for you.

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  Best car youll ever own - 1993 Honda Accord
  By j573 - September 21 - 2:00 am

  I rescued my 1993 LX after a friend of mine was about to let her go to a dealership trade in. That was 15k miles ago, at 155k. Im up to 170k now, and have loved every minute. Ive had a few easy fixes (main fuel relay, rubber trim, valve adjustments, etc), but no way can I complain. Especially not with 37mpg on the highway, a decent ride, and fair enough handling for a front drive sedan.

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  I love my new fit! - 2007 Honda Fit
  By jessica - September 21 - 12:50 am

  Incredibly comfortable interior. I fit an enormous dryer in the back by putting the back seats down! It may look small, but its HUGE inside. Its fun to drive, especially with a standard transmission, and feels completely in your control. A great value- fantastic fuel economy. Sporty, useful, adorable, fun! This is my second car. The Fit is fun to drive and I know it will last for years!

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  Excellent Car - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Mozzer - September 20 - 10:46 pm

  I had been looking into this car for a while now and when I was emailed that they had arrived at the dealers I went to the dealership right away. The cabin is really quiet, which I love, and very comfortable. The displays aver very futuristic. It has 110 HP which is enough for regular driving in the city and highway. Ive owned it for about a week and a half and my avg gas with this car is around 40mpg, not bad considering I drove and Acura RSX Type S that gave me half of that. The car is stylish and I love how it turns the engine off every time I stop at a red light or stop sign to save me gas. I dont regret trading in my Acura for this one. This one is a keeper.