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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  Old Faithful - 1990 Honda Civic
  By SeaKayaker - July 24 - 2:00 am

  Weve owned this car since it had 15 miles on it and still love it. We have had a string of ignition system failures (burned distributors), but I think this is behind us. We also had a vexing clutch chatter problem that Honda couldnt fix, but our local garage finally figured out. Found that if the sun roof leaks, getting the drains cleaned fixes the problem. Weve had Bridgestones, Goodyears and Michelins on the car. Michelins are best.

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  The first car Ive ever loved! - 1993 Honda Civic
  By anotherone - July 24 - 2:00 am

  At 145,000, its time to trade it in, but Im going to miss this sweet little car! Its probably got another 20-30K left in it with a little TLC!

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  Previous Hondas Better - 2016 Honda HR-V
  By Bailey - July 24 - 1:44 am

  This is a poorly made vehicle made in Mexico. The horrific paint jobs that come through on these is a disgrace. Missing clear-coat, dirt in paint- panels dont fit flush, etc. Ive owned previous Hondas in the past-mainly made in Japan. Take my advice and dont buy these Mexican made junk piles. Ive regretted my purchase since day one. The selling dealer has been great however; they can only do so much. I cannot wait to trade in on better vehicle- and it wont be another Honda. Now six months later, the exhaust has a terrible rattle under certain speeds when accelerating. The overall quality of this vehicle leave a lot to be desired. Im looking for a change this Spring.

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  Terrible MPG for short commutes - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Disappointed - July 23 - 8:36 pm

  Very disappointed with 2006 Honda Civic Hybrid fuel efficiency. During past winter (2006-07) only got 22-26 mpg! Drove only for short commutes. The HCH gets nowhere near the estimated EPA MPG when used for short commutes, especially during the winter. The brakes slip very slightly when car is stopping.

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  Special Edition CRV - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By Dennis - July 23 - 7:03 pm

  Although I have only had my CRV for three months, I am very happy with it. I am able now to transport my bike and kayak with no problem. I am particularly happy that Honda has decided to go with Leather Seats in the special edition and the heated front seats have been an added bonus during this cold winter. The only slight negative is with the higher than thought gas mileage and the small gas tank, it seems like I am filling the tank up quite often. This is my third Honda and the reliability seems to be there once again!

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  Its Like a Family Member! - 1996 Honda Passport
  By jgs - July 23 - 2:00 am

  The Passport has been the absolute best vehicle I have ever owned. Previous vehicles owned, Accord, Civic, BMW, Dodge Ram and VW. It has been trouble free. I have had new tires, shocks installed and general tune-ups. The reason I am writing this review is that it is now totaled from a fool pulling out into my lane. I will offer the insurance a reduced settlement in order to keep it and find someone to repair it! I LOVE THE PASSPORT THAT MUCH! Yes the door locks stick and it is using some oil but it has been an extremely inexpensive vehicle to drive. By the way...GREAT crash protection. Absorbed much of the collision with minor injury to myself.

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  Good ol Reliable - 1992 Honda Accord
  By Reliable - July 23 - 2:00 am

  Only problems were losing a side seal, AC developed a leak, and the steering fluid basin developed a leak. Other than that its held up pretty good.

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  Trouble Free - 2000 Honda Odyssey
  By ProblemFree - July 23 - 2:00 am

  My first Honda. Terrible experiences with previous Chrysler products, Honda has been completely trouble free. Handles well, easy to park, lot of power. Looks new after 4 years and 65k miles!

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  Happy with my purchase - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By FJT - July 22 - 10:53 am

  I just got my Pilot at around end of August. I really am happy with my purchase so far. The ride is quiet and smooth even on freeway. It also fits our needs. I like the fact that it is so versatile & roomy. For the most part, i love the improvements Honda has added to the 05 models. (i.e. EBD(electronic brake distribution), VSA(vehicle stability assistance), sunroof, more horsepower (15 horses more than previous models), TPMS(tire pressure monitoring system & lots more. I just think there is still room for improvements but other than that....EXCELLENT SUV!!!

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  175,000 and running - 1997 Honda Civic
  By 3-69 - July 22 - 2:00 am

  I have put this civic through hell and back. From florida to virginia back down and across the states to california! All while touching the redline at least once daily. Not a single fault till i tripped over 170,000, when i got a new engine ... all my fault(extreme driving). This car is definitely reliable.