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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  Powerful and comfy - 2010 Honda Accord
  By Dave - February 2 - 12:26 pm

  I have 2000 miles now, and loving it. The V6 gives effortless acceleration, and very silky smooth sounding. The ride is very comfortable and bumps are well suppressed. However, the road noise is pronounced, but still not bad. The Accord handles better than the Camry. The Coupe styling is much better than the sedans.

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  Solid Vehicle - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Steve - February 1 - 9:47 am

  This an extremely solid vehicle. I really have no complaints. I live in Michigan where we get a lot of snow and ice. Its nearly impossible to get this car to slip or slide. It has more than enough cargo space, yet it doesnt feel like an enormous vehicle when youre in it. I did have to have a power window motor replaced, but it was covered under warranty. Other than that, I havent had so much as a hiccup through 53,000 miles. The only issue I have is that the Pilot is kind of boring. Theres nothing exciting about the interior or exterior design, but I can think of much worse problems to have.

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  2016 Honda Pilot "soft pedal" issue - 2016 Honda Pilot
  By larry - February 1 - 5:30 am

  As long-time Honda Accord V-6 owners (3 since 1999) and realizing that we wanted something larger, we began to research the 2016 re-designed Pilot a year ago. After visiting dealerships several times and looking at all facets of the SUV, we purchased an EX-L with Honda Sensing in November 2016. The only options we added were color-matched side trim moldings and rear bumper applique, both of which greatly protect from door dings to sides and suitcase scratches to rear bumper....highly recommend. Incidently, we got the dealership to include both in negotiated purchase price, at no extra cost, including labor to install. We did get wheel locks and etched window security ID number, but declined upgraded security system....a $1000 add-on and dealer money-maker. We presently have 4500 miles on the vehicle, including 2 trips of 800 miles each, mostly interstate both times, with gas mileage on those trips of 28.5 miles both. Recently we had a rock, or object, hit the center of our right front fog light lens in the bumper, shattering it. I thought this would be a relatively easy fix....NOT!! The lens had to be ordered, and second appointment scheduled (18 mile round trip) for replacement. The lens (only...not the actual light assembly) was $70 and $120 for 35 minutes labor to replace...a total of $191....outrageous!!! These are available on-line from various sources quite reasonable, and there are how-to videos online showing how to replace them, which I would do next time. While there for replacement, I mentioned to the service advisor that I had noticed for sometime, but more so the past several weeks, that the brake pedal seemed "soft" when coming to stop signs or lights, and that recently, when stopped at a light in a line of traffic, the car would initially stop OK, but the brake pedal would then slowly depress, nearly to the floor, requiring increasing attention and pressure to prevent the vehicle from "creeping" forward....a safety concern. His response was, "yes, Honda is a aware of this, so far terming it a "soft pedal issue", and they are watching it". I indicated to him my concern this is ultimately a safety concern, and he indicated that "it does not seem to be present or happening with all 2016 Pilots, but likely will require a "fix", ie: a recall or software update". If buying a 2016, you need to be aware of this. Our last feature we dislike the most is the Infotainment Center in this particular model. Everything is touch, slide, and as many reviews have indicated, NOT user friendly or intuitive. The hardcopy owners manual gives you very little specific info on the vehicle. Fortunately, there is a CD for use in your computer that gives you detailed info...how to set or adjust outside temperature reading on dash; how to change bass/treble/balance/front-rear balance on radio/sound system....look at it...well worth the time. Overall, a very nice vehicle with some "hiccups" Honda needs to correct.

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  Great Car - 1997 Honda Civic
  By HondaLover - January 31 - 5:40 pm

  I purchased this car almost 10 years ago. Its a 5 speed manual and it has been very reliable. I have had no major problems in the 100k plus miles I have put on. It is relegated to a kids car now and it gets much more abuse than when my wife and I drove it, but it is still hanging in there. A few years ago I purchased a 2005 EX 4 dr, so I guess its says a lot of about how much we liked this one.

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  WELL MADE! - 1997 Honda Accord
  By vaneverette71 - January 31 - 5:18 pm

  I bought my 97 Special Edition in March, 03 with 60k on her. The only things I have done besides oil changes have been replacing the radiator and timing belt (1st time!) at 160k. I wish I had a stick shift, but it still runs well and burns very little oil. I change oil every 7.5k. The new hondas look good, but since Ill only get $2-3k in trade, I think Ill hang onto this baby a while!

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  Saved my life - 2006 Honda Element
  By ricthechef - January 30 - 8:16 am

  My brother had a 2003 Element and was rolled off the thruway--he walked away. Yesterday I was hit just about head on, on the right headlight, by a pickup going over 60 MPH. The car rolled, the airbags deployed and aside from a broken rib and a few contusions, I literally walked away. Kudos to safety features and thanks to you Honda! The high ceilings I believe are a factor in safety and comfort.

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  01 Honda Accord Coupe V6 - 2001 Honda Accord
  By dmnion - January 29 - 6:46 pm

  The car is a real head turner and it has the power to match. I regret not waiting til 02 model considering the passenger seat is power too. Also, the drivers seat is power but not very comfortable. It needs more adjustment. This is my second Honda. They are reliable cars with great retail but I would consider an Acrua CL if I were to purchase another Honda/Acura.

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  Revolt Needed - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By Veracity - January 29 - 5:04 pm

  Positives of this vehicle are well documented. Problems are well concealed. Brakes are an issue as mentioned... early drum turning required. Economy is average, as is passenger comfort. Drivers seat OK, not great, the rest are "short trip" friendly only. Real issue: squawking parking brake drum... which service garage tells me Honda is classifying as a "Honda characteristic". Backing out of parking, turning at very low speed is the circumstance where it occurs. Parking brake band leans over and touches rear drum. Tech told me that every Honda on the lot will eventually do this and Honda company refuses to design a "fix". When WE squawk, Honda will respond.

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  Excellent decision to buy! - 2008 Honda Ridgeline
  By Daniel - January 29 - 10:43 am

  Former 04 Nissan Titan, considering Toy Tundra, but this was more practical. Cheaper, what a deal!, Fun to drive, gave me more space in the garage. Now well have more fun, distance to cover at lower cost.

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  Great Ski Car - 2006 Honda Element
  By Runmaster - January 28 - 8:52 pm

  I purchased an 06 knowing that changes were going to made in the 07. I did not care for the new belt system and the front grill. Also, this was the 1st generation Element and I believe that all the issues are worked out with the last year of a generation change. (Front windshield, A/C, AWD, etc.) I have been correct. This car (SUV) is rock solid.