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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  Like it a lot! - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By Alon - May 30 - 2:00 am

  While Ive only had the Odyssey for about a week now, I am extremely impressed with it. Size, seating options and reputation for reliability were our reasons for choosing this over Chrysler & Toyota minivans. I wasnt too thrilled about getting a minivan, but its a lot better than I thought it would be. Drives better than my 98 Nissan Altima.

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  Im in Love with it!! - 2003 Honda Civic
  By Honda Civic Gal - May 30 - 2:00 am

  I much enjoy this vehicle. Not only is it a nice size with enough room but it also has a nice pick up and go power to it.

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  Honda ex v6 4dr spokane - 2003 Honda Accord
  By CRAIG - May 29 - 7:30 pm

  The car is built well,fast and at times fun to drive . The drivers seat should have better lumbar support. Things i hate about it are small , the handles above the drivers head and also on the passenger side buzz along with a rattle in the center of the dash that comes and goes.

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  Do your research. - 2008 Honda Accord
  By what? - May 29 - 4:36 pm

  First I am 64" and 235 lbs. I fit in the Coupe comfortably. The seat has to be far back so my head does not hit the ceiling. Leg room is adequate. The interior is nicely equipped and I like the XM radio but not the monthly fee. The exterior is ok and looks pretty sharp in the metallic color. The ride is somewhat rough and very noisy. My Toyota Tacoma truck is quieter than this Honda when traveling at high speed. I drive a Charger at work and the Charger rides nicer and is quieter as well. The 4 cylinder is very slow when you need it to go from a dead stop. Go for the 6 cylinder if you can afford it.

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  Performance - 2006 Honda Accord
  By frank g. fabbro - May 29 - 7:23 am

  I think it is the best car today for the money. I believe that it has all the features that you need.

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  The perfect car for me. - 2003 Honda Insight
  By liamblake - May 29 - 2:00 am

  If you are looking for a car that you can live in (assuming that you are living in your car by yourself) this is the car for you. Design is flawless and the gas mileage speeks for itself. When driving for long distances on the interstate its more like sailing than driving. The car cruises along with so little wind noise its such a pleasure to drive.

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  Nice Car - 1992 Honda Accord
  By mtn_man - May 29 - 2:00 am

  My 3rd accord - out of order first came 89 lxi coupe, second came the 00 lx sedan and now my favorite - 92 ex sedan. I guess they just dont make things the way they used to. Bought it with 91k miles and did minimal preventative maintanance to ensure another 100k of trouble free miles.

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  Best all around car ever! - 1995 Honda Accord
  By David Kim - May 29 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car off of my mom (over a period of 4 years!) and have driven it for 5 years now. There are a very few flaws, but so many more positive things to say about this car. I have had no major or even minor problems with this car. I just do the basic maintenance by changing the oil, spark plugs, other fluids, etc and I have yet to take it to the shop for a problem! The only thing I wish for is more power, but I was stuck with the 135hp from the LX. The EX has 145, and V6 has 160 I believe.

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  2017 Civic Hatchback EX - 2017 Honda Civic
  By Chad - May 28 - 9:52 pm

  This is a great upgrade to the Civic explaining the higher cost. Civics are no longer the small entry level Honda vehicle; this has been passed down to the Honda Fit. Now the Honda Civic appeals to the millennial generation of adults in their late 20s and early 30s. The car drives great and has enough horsepower to handle high speed traffic while at the same time maintaining strong gas mileage. Safety is a top priority with the car performing a 5-star in all areas. The European versions come standard with Honda Sensing, which I believe for the price paid should also come standard on all American models; however, I am extremely pleased with this car and would recommend it for anyone with a small family but wanting a stylish looking ride. I have received more compliments than any other vehicle I have driven.

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  Complete Disappointment - 2008 Honda Civic
  By Chris - May 28 - 2:53 am

  I have been wanting a Civic Si since before I can remember. Now that I have one, I wish I could return it. It feels like a Cadillac with 2 doors and a 4 cylinder engine. That is, it doesnt feel fast, the suspension is terrible, it never feels comfortable, and I just cant find a good seat position. The cabin feels claustrophobic and cramped and I am not a large person (55"). If I could return it, I would. I dont think Ill be keeping this car much longer and will take my losses. Ill give 6 months max. Completely disappointed. Depressed and dissatisfied. Ill probably never get myself to buy another Honda again.