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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  Awesome SUV - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Dooslikespakle - June 11 - 10:00 am

  I have owned 5 different SUVs, 4Runner, Pathfinder, Jimmy, Mercedes and Lincoln. This SUV, the Pilot beats them all, hands-down. Superior handling, ride, comfort, responsiveness, and fun.

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  honda - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By zzvinai - June 11 - 10:00 am

  good car to drive and fun to drive good fuel economy

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  New Owner - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By SpartanMan2 - June 11 - 10:00 am

  Granted, I just purchased this vehicle, and have been pleased overall.

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  Unbelievable - 2001 Honda Accord
  By hondaxtrordinair - June 11 - 10:00 am

  I recently bought the 2001 2dr V-6 EX model and let me tell you its awsome!! The acceleration is amazing, handling is great: turns on a dime, extremely reliable. strongly reccomend this car

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  Very good economical car. - 2002 Honda Civic
  By Matt P - June 11 - 10:00 am

  I have put over 10000 miles on this car now and I love it. It sure isnt a sports car but I cant complain about getting ~34-35 mpg...in the summer with my a/c cranking. I have to admit that the air conditioning system is a little weak but it is pretty decent for the size car. After school I plan on upgrading to a bigger car but this is good for now.

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  Im a believer - 2002 Honda Civic
  By be_m - June 11 - 10:00 am

  Having driven a Ford Mustang for the past 2-3 years I really wasnt ready to downgrade. When I bought my Civic I thought it was just the sensible thing to do. Now Im wondering why I didnt do it long ago. I love driving it and I love the way the interior is organized. Its a completely enjoyable experience to drive it everyday and, as it turns out, a total UPGRADE!!! Did I mention that I went from 19mpg to 36mpg?

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  My 3rd CRV - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By Paul Stockhauser - June 11 - 6:38 am

  User friendly controls. Nice transmission CVT

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  Only 1 week and I love it! - 2008 Honda Accord
  By brm128 - June 11 - 3:00 am

  Had been curious about the 08 since it came out; have been driving my wifes old 4Runner and wanted something with better fuel economy & smoother ride. My other option was a Jetta but after test drive this won hands down with the bang for the buck. I previously had a 01 Acura CL Type- S and the ride is similar; interior design not all that much different than the TL and on the EX-L you get most of the same options; plus the added roominess in the 08 helps w/ a family. Was able to get a Polished Metal w/ Gray interior right off the truck.

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  Just Right - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By Normand - June 10 - 6:56 pm

  Needed something reliable that was comfortable and would fit in garage. The Rigdeline is perfect. Holds anything I would ever carry. Does not beat you to death on rough roads, and the 4 wheel drive is exactly what I need--extra grip in rain and snow--- I will never be up some western canyon running over boulders in super low range, and neither will 98% of all other truck drivers I know. Just a great vehicle with decent gas mileage. Exterior styling is bulky, but safe. Maybe we could get one of those Italian stylists to do the first 4 year makeover. Then it would be perfect.

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  Couldnt be happier - 2007 Honda Fit
  By nlthomas - June 10 - 3:13 am

  I have a little over 9000 miles on my Fit, and I still look forward to driving it. Im averaging 34 mpg. Its amazing how much stuff you can squeeze into this car if you try, and rearranging the seats is simple. I had to add a seat cover with a bit of extra padding to keep from getting a backache, but I still wouldnt trade this car for anything. It looks tiny from the outside, but is amazingly roomy inside.