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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  great - 2001 Honda Prelude
  By doml816 - April 26 - 2:00 am

  very superb, and very exciting to drive

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  Great Car - 2015 Honda Accord
  By Tabert Talbert - April 25 - 10:49 pm

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  Hondas QA needs improvment - 2007 Honda Accord
  By David J. Darnbrough - April 25 - 5:40 pm

  2006 & 7 sedan owners check your dash. I had to have the glove box replaced because it was not aligned properly and made a noise. The old one and the new one both have a dimple or sink mark in them. Youll also see one on the lower portion of the dashboard on the drivers side. Honda says that "sink marks are usually hidden by the graining but not on this dashboard. Regarding the question of replacing it with another dashboard, it will have the same type of sink mark so replacement is not recommended." So basically they got junk from their source and were stuck with it. Another unsightly area is the pass. side airbag, it looks like a sticker was there then removed and left a mark.

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  Willrunit totheground - 1994 Honda Civic
  By W&A - April 25 - 2:00 am

  Were the second owners and just passed 92,000 miles. The odd problems are beginning, but I just did a new england swing after getting 90k service and the car continues to run well at 80 or negotiating Bostons nightmarish traffic. I am going to look for something a little bigger but will keep this for my son until it dies - if all goes well hell get three or four years of good life.

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  Honda Accord LOVE - 2013 Honda Accord
  By Tonya Lynn - April 25 - 12:38 am

  This is my fourth Honda. Honda has really improved throughout the years. I couldnt be happier with owning a Honda. This is my 4th one so far! Great value for the money and looks just as nice as a Lexis!

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  Love It! - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By lovemycrv - April 24 - 11:23 pm

  Ok, Ive only had my 07 CR-V EX for one day, but I thoroughly researched several others (Toyota RAV4 and Hyundai Santa Fe and Tucson) and just fell in love with this car. The dealerships around me sell the cars before the even reach the lot or within 2 days of receiving. I went 2 1/2 hrs away, but had a selection to choose from....and they came down about $1500 from MSRP. I got the green tea EX 2WD and love it. The only thing I dont like is the fold and tumble seats as opposed to "lay flat" seats. I was highly considering the RAV4, but hate the tire on the back and not willing to pay $4000 more for the limited with no tire on back. Honda also has better resale value and slightly better gas.

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  Sporty, Smooth and Reliable - 1998 Honda Accord
  By dav-w - April 24 - 10:00 am

  I bought my Accord new in 98 and have never regretted the purchase for a second. It is, undoubtedly, the most reliable car that I have ever owned, and is my third consecutive Honda. I now have over 75,000 miles on it and still have the original tires, brakes, clutch and exhaust. This car shines on the highway, with smooth power delivery, effortless passing and superb fuel economy. Opt for the manual transmission to get the best out of the 2.3L engine.

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  Honda Accord LX Coupe - 1994 Honda Accord
  By Me - April 24 - 10:00 am

  This car is really fun to drive!!

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  Honda Accord LX Coupe - 1994 Honda Accord
  By me - April 24 - 10:00 am

  This car is really fun to drive!!

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  Excelent Vehicle - 1996 Honda Accord
  By DavidB. - April 24 - 10:00 am

  This car has 150,000 miles on it and still runs like the day it was built. Smooth comfortable ride, a kick to drive. Excelent handling, excelent acceleration. No question the best car I have ever owned!