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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  V6 Navi Coupe - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Dropzone - May 20 - 10:00 am

  I waited for the Nav system to finally buy this car. I was more than impressed by the features. A friend has a Mercedes S600 and the Nav system is archaic compared to the one in the Honda. I finally read the directions and unearthed all the features and voice activated commands, it will do everything but make a cup of latte.

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  Not So Great A Car, just OK - 2003 Honda Accord
  By CMJLB - May 20 - 10:00 am

  First Honda. Purchased this car mainly because of design and reputation. Hate the ride (rough and loud on freeways). Has serious blind spots rear quarter and front. Stereo leaves much to be desired. Gas mileage first 4000 miles is terrible, much less than my Solara. Rear seat room very minimal. Moon roof control can only be operated by driver and is not auto one touch open/close. Engine hesitates during quick acceleration.

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  Our first Honda - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By Michael Vande Voort - May 20 - 9:48 am

  Not as good of discounts as some other brands but seem better made than others. More quiet cabin and better driver feedback when operating.

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  Average car - 1995 Honda Accord
  By shunnyKhan - May 20 - 2:00 am

  Its a decent car. I read one review which states that A/C doent work real good. I had a similar problem with my car. The dealer changed the compressor but no improvement. Finnaly it was found that the A/C Heat switch does not work properly and I just wasted money on changing compressor. In last two years, I changed cv boots and brakes besides A/C work. Its engine is not powerful but just adequate. Roomy inside. Not real great handling.

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  2009 Honda Pilot - 2009 Honda Pilot
  By Sydney - May 20 - 12:43 am

  I bought this SUV after doing a lot of research and I love the fact that the engine converts down to 3 cyl. when not going faster. I had a 2004 Jeep Liberty before and the Honda Pilot drives so much better. It is very comfortable to drive in and ride in. I love it!!!

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  Honda, may I have another. - 2015 Honda Odyssey
  By tony palcher - May 20 - 12:16 am

  second Honda, but first minivan, but what a ride. I love the blind spot camera on the passenger side, the builtin car length marker comes in handy when you have a full crew in the van. Quiet and smooth ride. Also the cool-box is awesome. Right out of the gate I got 25 MPG on my first tank, and after 5,000 miles things are still great in this family hauling golf party machine.

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  Exceeds Expectations - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Ron - May 19 - 2:13 pm

  I have only had this car for a week and have less than 200 miles on the odometer. Currently the car is delivering 43 mpg, slightly better than I expected for a vehicle that is not broken in. The construction appears to be very solid and this is the quietest car that I have ever owned and Ive owned a lot of cars from the top of the line to junkers. The car hanles very well although the suspension is a little stiff for a non-performance auto. I am 62" tall and have more than enough room to be comfortable. The auto engine shutdown takes a little getting used to but overall its unobtrusive. So far, I am very pleased with this purchase.

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  Most fun you can have in a practical car - 2007 Honda Fit
  By jesse - May 19 - 9:03 am

  The Honda Fit far exceeds my expectations. Good gas mileage, great handling, amazing interior design and space, superior saftey options standard compared to other cars in its class, and a good list of options all at a relatively good price. After comparing option to option with similar cars (go add on safety features, options etc to a Yaris or Versa and watch the price jump!), you will see the fit comes out at a good value. And due to good design on Hondas part its also the most practical and fun to drive of these new crop of compact cars in my opinion.

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  Transmission getting replaced as I type on touring - 2016 Honda Pilot
  By Amanda P - May 19 - 2:57 am

  I heard a chirping sound in my car the last 2 weeks & made an appointment at the dealership. They didnt know what it was, but thought it could be the transmission. They put me in a rental car & called today to tell me that they have to order a whole new transmission for the car!!! I just bought the car in October & this is such a disappointment! Do not recommend!

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  Great Value - 1996 Honda Odyssey
  By SimpAllen - May 19 - 2:00 am

  Weve owned our van for 7 years, and it lived up to the Honda name. At the time we thought the 4 doors was pretty innovative, and it has been. We have had no troubles with it, and have never regretted it.