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:

• 

  Honda CRV love it - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By K. Serrano - June 3 - 12:42 am

  Cloth seats are way better. Love the heated seats and no static!

• 

  2016 Honda CRV EX AWD - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By M Copeland - June 2 - 10:05 pm

  This is my 6th Honda dating back to 1977. I chose the CRV due to living in a snow belt. This SUV rides very nice. The handling is good. I really like the driving position, it sits up high enough to see everything well at night. It has plenty of options. I like the amount of storage and the way the rear seats fold down. With my past experience with Hondas this should last a very long time. I am not planning on ever needing to purchase another car. No vibrations as some have mentioned with the 2015 model.

• 

  Luv It - 2009 Honda Accord
  By Tiff - June 2 - 6:46 pm

  Test drove a 2009 Civic was not impressed. Originally purchased 08 CR-V which was totaled. Test drove the Accord and loved it. Smooth drive works well for me and my husband.

• 

  A "Solid" Economy Car - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Pat - June 2 - 3:50 pm

  I had a 1995 Civic EX w/manual for 11 yrs. prior to this new one. Its amazing what 11 yrs.of engineering will do to a car! My new Civic awesome! From the interior/exterior design, to the build quality. In the interior, everything was well-thought out; all is where it should be, withing easy reach and logically located. The build quality is comparable to higher-end cars. When I close the door, it closes with a reassuring "thunk", at the same time incubating the occupants from outside noise. Its not "vault-like quiet", but it is definitely quiet in there. Everything else from the powerful and clear stereo to the ever-so-frigid air conditioning system work extremely well.

• 

  Good so far - 2004 Honda Civic
  By Cow Eyes - June 2 - 10:00 am

  Just purchased my 3rd Civic. All seems well except for needing rear cup holders. It is an option for the DX and EX only-WHY? I understand airconditioning is a problem when it is really hot. I hope not for me-gets really hot in the south!

• 

  Honda Accord V-6 sedan - 2003 Honda Accord
  By pjh - June 2 - 10:00 am

  I think its a great car with a surprising robust mileage. I have a few minor squeaks in the trunk / rear seat area. However, it could be more exciting to drive.

• 

  Never Again - 2003 Honda Accord
  By softmom - June 2 - 10:00 am

  Ive had 3 Hondas & this is the worst one. I have encountered a brake recall, transmission recall and now the audio unit has a service bulletin because the display has gone out. I had to call Honda Customer Service and they agreed to foot the labor bill plus the unit cost. Long distance mileage is good, appearance of car is great. Mechanically unsound.

• 

  Satisfied with MPG and Comfort - 2008 Honda Civic
  By Satisfied on MPG - June 2 - 6:00 am

  Looking for great MPG and comfort on long trips in car I plan to own over 10 years and 200,000 miles. Have owned the car for 2 months and have over 5,000 miles. MPG has ranged from 42 to 47 using 89 octane 90% Ethanol fuel in Midwest. 1/2 has been Interstate mileage at 75-80 mph with A/C. Best mileage was 47 mpg with 65 mph highway night time with no A/C. Car has been everything I hoped for! My concerns include (1) Auto stop engine cutoff at stop light/signs on hill and car will roll back if break not fully depressed. (2) Accelerating power at either a stopped position moving into traffic or passing at high speed is limited. Only 2nd new car bought. Prius wait 9 months; Civic 2 weeks.

• 

  Great Car!!! - 1990 Honda Prelude
  By z0iid - June 2 - 2:00 am

  I actually own an 89 4WS model, but this is close enough. No one gives the 3rd generation prelude good reviews. I have debated getting a new car for a year now, and cant stand to part with such an awesome car. I would reccommend to anyone.

• 

  an excellent vehicle - 1996 Honda Accord
  By mneebs - June 2 - 2:00 am

  i love to drive my accord, its my first car, and it drives wonderfully. It has a smooth ride, its very reliable, and the power windows and locks are nice. the various controls are very easy to understand and access, its a great car.