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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  chaufeur - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By HERITAGECOVE - February 16 - 4:00 pm

  Rear fender panel loose. Battery failed in 3rd year. Carousel under floor too low to the ground. Smashed it in hitting road hazard first year. Gas mileage terrible. Tires wearing unevenly. Road noise very loud, brakes squeal.

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  Great Minivan - 2008 Honda Odyssey
  By RV - February 16 - 10:58 am

  This is my first Honda experience. A very reliable well built car. Has many features but always wondered why they couldnt have a back-up sensor (versus a camera) or a windshield wiper fluid sensor, common features on American made vehicles. One of the few minivans still in production. My biggest complaint in the navigation system, which was outdated the minute I drove it off the floor. The system also tells you that you have arrived at your destination when you are still at least a block away. You cant get the back up camera without buying the navigation system. I carry a plug in portable system for navigation.

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  Sport Honda - 2017 Honda Accord
  By Brian Lew - February 16 - 10:01 am

  Outside of vehicle is very sporty had great lines. Dont be so excited about the interior /design if vehicle

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  From a 3 series to a rich burner... - 2008 Honda Accord
  By ken90004 - February 16 - 6:20 am

  An Accord isnÂ’t anywhere close to 3 series on many facets, namely performance, but sadly to say, in others, it surpasses. The 4 cylinder lacks performance and handling and the gas saving is only minimal. Option for the V6 if it is an option for you. I drive 140 miles daily, and found the comfort the best feature. The controls are logic and easy to use. I did notice the traction control is something lacking at times. What you are getting, most of all, is HondaÂ’s reliable. Something BMW still struggles with.

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  Tippy Truck - 2007 Honda Pilot
  By ADM - February 16 - 5:56 am

  We bought this vehicle mostly because we disliked it the least. Coming out of driving only cars, I am appalled at how poorly this thing handles. Steering response is so slow mushy that I feel like I am sending signals to the engine room ("hard aport!") whenever I make a steering adjustment. Also, I was very surprised that the 6disk CD changer does not play mp3 encoded disks. On the plus side, the build quality is excellent, the engine is quite and responsive and the seating arrangement is very versatile

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  Solid as a rock! - 2000 Honda Accord
  By Emay1965 - February 15 - 6:45 am

  Purchased my 2000 Accord EX V6 back in Nov. 2004 with 68k on the odometer. All I can say is this has been the best car Ive ever owned. I took the vehicle to the dealer at around 75k for an oil change and they indicated that the tranny was going and recommended I get it replaced by Honda. This was a known problem and Honda was handling for free as long as it was done before 80k miles. Outside of that and my alternator being replaced recently, this car has been a dream. Im currently at 161k miles and hope to own at least to 250k. Ill probably replace with another Accord but just afraid the later models wont compare in reliability.

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  Great dependable car - 2010 Honda Accord
  By hondaguy2 - February 15 - 6:43 am

  Just picked up my 2010 Accord lx a couple days ago, its about as expected. I turned in a 2007 Accord se with the v6 engine so going to the 4 cylinder is tough. Im sure I will get used to the lack of power over time. The exterior is nice, and the interior is just ok. I was surprised at the road noise, thats something I didnt have in the 2007. All in all, its a great car. I think you buy a Honda more for the dependability than looks or ride.

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  Im loving it - 2016 Honda Odyssey
  By Kevin - February 15 - 3:06 am

  Handles like a sedan.

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  Legitimate complaints - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By dewey24022008 - February 14 - 5:41 pm

  My wife and I enjoy the driveability, seating, storage and gas mileage. It now has 80,000km which is 50,000miles. We find the plastic used on interior marks easily. The plastic that surrounds the clothe upholstery is cracking.The seat belts do not retract without help. The Bridgestone tires had to be replaced at 66,000 or 41,000 miles. The brakes had to be replaced at same time but some of problem could have been a lot of downhill braking. When making sharp turns to park or move in slow driving there is an obvious rumble from the rear wheels more obvious on sharp right movements. My mechanic is not familiar with the Honda 4 wheel drive system. It will have to go to Honda for evaluation.

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  Still on the fence - 2009 Honda Accord
  By Gary - February 14 - 12:46 pm

  We have 3 Hondas - although this one looks great - couple of things: road noise (so loud yesterday that I couldnt hear my son on cell) - I know that road surface plays into it, but... really. Brakes squeal, seats are ok - but being short it is hard for me to find the optimal position for steering wheel without it blocking out speedo. Also, passenger airbag light comes on intermittently and some engine lights too. Keep thinking about that Bimmer... will give this a few more months.