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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  A Keeper - 2009 Honda Fit
  By Dave - September 20 - 5:33 pm

  Honda just keeps setting the bar on fun to drive, quality, intelligently designed automobiles. During these times of high gas prices, this car is truly the best alternative out there. I have driven the car for 600 miles in almost all city driving and have gotten 30 mpg. I have owned other cars that had the same or better EPA estimates that did not come close to this mileage (usually 25 mpg). With 2009 all models get telescopic a telescopic steering wheel that allows anyone a comfortable driving position. In the sport version you get a lot of nice extras. The ride is excellent in this vehicle. The balance between handling and comfort is perfect. The navi system is also excellent.

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  2006 Civic - 2006 Honda Civic
  By ndtorrez - September 20 - 4:40 pm

  Ive had this car about two weeks and I love it! The nighthawk black with blue pearl is an awesome color! Drives well and looks better! I would recommend the 2006 Civic to anyone!

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  Great Value - 2011 Honda Accord Crosstour
  By wfcress - September 20 - 12:30 pm

  Just traded in my 2009 Accord EX-L for a 2011 Crosstour EX. The way the used car market for used Hondas, we were able to get out of our 3 year lease a year early with no problem. We traded for a simple reason. With 2 sedans (our other car is a Civic SI) we had limited ability to carry things like a new TV or grill. We needed something with greater utility, but did not want an SUV. This car is perfect! It is smoother and quieter than the Accord sedan, but drives just as well. Similar gas mileage. It sits just a bit higher, which my wife particularly likes. This is a great car. I would recommend it highly!

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  Laughable Build Quality - 2008 Honda Civic
  By Patrick - September 20 - 8:00 am

  I bought this 2008 Honda Civic Ex brand new. Although the gas mileage is great I was averaging 33 mpg. Everything else about this car is horrible. I have been to the dealer countless times to fix suspension issues and rattles all over the car pretty much everywhere from the moon roof to the dash and pillars. The car only has 13k miles and most of the tire tread is gone. Also the road noise is really bad.

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  6th Honda 1st CR-V - 2012 Honda CR-V
  By Sherri Kennedy - September 20 - 2:26 am

  After driving Accords both sedan and coupe for over 20 years, I bought my first CR-V. I am so happy with this vehicle for its overall performance and technology perks. I have the Economy version front wheel drive, which is perfect for a semi-retired educator. It is roomy and comfortable with more cargo room when the back seats are laid down. Ive had on a road trip and short trips. I am very pleased with my purchase.

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  I should have bought one years ago! - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By Jeffrey - September 20 - 2:19 am

  Always go with at least an EX. Worth the price, you can always lease an expensive SUV, but you will never own it.

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  1994 Honda Civic LX 4 Dr Sedan - 1994 Honda Civic
  By rjtoc2 - September 20 - 2:00 am

  I put 170,000 miles on this car before I sold it. Aside from routine maintenance, I replaced the timing belt once, was on my second set of tires, and had to perform a moderate A/C repair ($500). I loved this car and was sad to part with it.

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  No regrets - 1999 Honda Odyssey
  By Lunt - September 20 - 2:00 am

  We bought our Oddy from an independent dealer. We were reluctant because of its low price, since they hold their value so well. After 2 test drives, a carfax report and lots of homework, we decided to let our guard down and purchase the van. It drives a little heavier than other vans we tested but the power and handling made up for that. The original owner added a luggage rack and a 6-disk in-dash CD player, which made its appeal very similar to the EX model. Front brake pads and tires were worn so the dealer replaced them. We also had to get new keyfobs for the keyless entry/anti theft system. Seems like a lot to go through but it was worth it.

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  - - 1996 Honda Accord
  By TED - September 20 - 2:00 am

  Great car. Owned for a few years, never had a problem.

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  Civic to Accord - 2015 Honda Accord
  By DML, Sr - September 19 - 11:40 pm

  Road Noise is only a bit better than the Civic