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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  Reliable light car with the space of an SUV - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By Matt A. - September 11 - 6:23 am

  My CRV is going strong at over 143,000 miles and is great for city/suburb driving and commute, moving lots of stuff or large items, and the occasional camping or road trip. Engine/transmission and electrical are very reliable but acceleration is starting to drag a little bit, and the door lock actuator is broken (as in other reviews). But I have done all regular maintenance and major services like brake replacements, and the car is fine. Its easy to park and fits lots of stuff with fold-down seats. The seats arent plush, but the interior is roomy and practical with good driving visibility if you remove the rear headrests. Roof rack has come in handy. Reasonably safe, although you wouldnt want to be in a side-crash as many vehicles are larger/heaver than this. Feels like a light car with the space of an SUV. Paint and finish have held up perfectly.

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  1 - 1997 Honda Prelude
  By Pavlik - September 11 - 2:00 am

  Very reliable car. Bought it brand new back in 97, car now has 70K miles on it. Last week just changed the originals: front brake pads, 2 front tires and clutch master cylinder. Thats all replacements I had in 6 years! Car looks and runs brand new, getting 28/30 miles a gallon. Had 6 Honda cars in a past - they all a top reliability and Prelude is the best one among them. Will keep it for a long time - very happy with my Lude!

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  Great car making for a GREAT BUY ! - 2017 Honda Accord
  By James Fisher Sr - September 10 - 6:36 pm

  Finest driving automobile, I have ever driving. Comfortable for a short fat old man and sits that hugs you like a pretty woman. Leased to replace a 2012 Accord Ex-L Totaled out from hitting a cement wall head on @ 70 MPH with no injuries. Insurance paid the whole note and some extra $16,000.00 + . Didnt even come close to needing GAP insurance. Residual value after 57 months with 48015 miles 62%. If my 2017 Accord does that good I just made ONE HELL OF A DEAL!

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  Fun with current gas prices!!! - 2004 Honda Civic
  By Dennis - September 10 - 1:33 pm

  Honda built a fun reliable little car. I threw some 18" wheels and sport tires on there and it handles 100% better than stock. Be careful with the side skirt mouldings, they are held on with double sided tape ... cheap!!

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  bought 07 ahead of new body style - 2007 Honda Pilot
  By Go Bears - September 10 - 12:06 pm

  I got 2k off of invoice to buy the Pilot in January. The EX-L MSRP is $33,840, the invoice was $30,530 and I paid $28,530. How can you go wrong? Great truck! The new Acura (visions of the new Pilot) doesnt really make me want to wait and buy at or near sticker. I think it is well equipped, very comfortable and as safe as any vehicle on the road. I was considering a Benz or BMW but everyone I talk to that has one says you have to sell before the warranty is up. As good as any vehicle for the money- it is a depreciating asset. I wish there were better colors. I have no idea what some others have said about a vibration at 55mph. They must need a tire balance. GREAT TRUCK BUY IT!

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  Excellent - 2001 Honda Prelude
  By fblueprelude - September 10 - 2:00 am

  A great car. Honda never should have stopped making them.

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  disappointed - 1999 Honda Odyssey
  By susan williams - September 10 - 2:00 am

  My transmission and catalytic converter went out at 90,000 miles. The transmission is covered but the dealer want 900 for the catalytic converter. I am just disappointed with the honda product.

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  happy honda civic ex owner - 1996 Honda Civic
  By r b - September 10 - 2:00 am

  i bought this car brand new in 96. it has been a joy to drive and very reliable transportation mode. through aaa i landed the best pricing with their no haggles pricing agreement. ive kept consistent with the maintenance schedule in the owners manual and havent had a single extra- ordinary problem with this car. what a wonderful car.

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  Mans best friend - 1996 Honda Accord
  By stillwatercove - September 10 - 2:00 am

  NOT SEXY, but oh soooo dependable, functional, and comfortable to drive. The wagon has so much room. Easyily convertable to put 2 bikes in the back without removing wheels. Quiet on the highway and nimble in the city.

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  I love my CROSSTOUR! - 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour
  By a happy driver - September 9 - 6:00 pm

  I dont know what is not to love about this car. I wanted an SUV with better gas mileage that had a lower profile and more sedan like. This is it!