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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  No longer the "mommy mobile!" - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By Burke - March 24 - 12:30 pm

  The odyssey is a sporty minivan that helps alleviate the "Im a typical mom" syndrome! I can fit my three boys and all of their gear comfortably. The DVD system with wireless headphones is wonderful, especially when waiting at rainy baseball practices! Very reliable and comfortable. I like the maintenance reminder and the removable middle seat is a plus!

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  best minivan ever - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By pspk - March 24 - 5:13 am

  contrary to what i read from edmunds tmv price i got the van 1250 dollars cheaper than the MSRP price.the key is shopping around.try all the dealers. dealer price is 2% to 3% less than the invoice price.for any new vehicle ask for a 4% to 8% above the invoice and walk out if you dont get it.but for odyssey it is going to be really tough but worth trying to go up from the invoice price. the van is worth every cent. excellent handling.i feel the control is much better than the corolla i have.

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  Fabulous New Civic-- MUST BUY - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Kevin James - March 24 - 4:00 am

  This is my third and by far most favorite Civic that I have ever owned. I owned a 97, and 04 and my current 06. There is absolutely no comparison to the previous models. Honda has really outdone themselves with the 2006 Civic Coupe. This car is packed with features and a fit and finish that puts competition in the same class to shame! I have had so much attention from people at the car wash, gas station, and drivers on the road wondering what my car is. This is definitely not like its stodgy predecessor!

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  Honda made a winner - 1992 Honda Prelude
  By ZakS - March 24 - 2:00 am

  This car is excellent in every aspect. The power is excellent, the handling is awsome, and the looks are sporty. Combined with good gas mileage, cheap price, and low insurance premiums, this car is untouchable. Advice: I would stay away from the 4 wheel steering models due to their increased weight. The (subtle) performance gain is not worth the weight increase.

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  love it - 1992 Honda Accord
  By ester - March 24 - 2:00 am

  best car I ever owned.I never plan to sell it,will keep it till I die!

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  Accord - 2016 Honda Accord
  By Liz - March 23 - 5:21 pm

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  Fantastic - 2008 Honda Civic
  By jake - March 23 - 1:30 pm

  Fun, exciting, love this car, I made the right choice. Do not miss this car It has all in a small sports car. Compare to expensive cars, this one takes the cake.

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  Honda CRV-EXL vibrate during idle - 2015 Honda CR-V
  By cutylun - March 23 - 3:03 am

  Just picked up new 2015 Honda CRV EX-L few days and quickly figured out the problem that most people mention about the vibration during idle. When put on the brake at the stop sign or traffic light, driver can feel the vibration on the chair, steering wheel, some time the vibration is strong like having a massage on the back.

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  1991 Honda Accord 2 Dr EX Coupe - 1991 Honda Accord
  By Tkolb - March 23 - 2:00 am

  Nice running, clean car it is a great used car for someone.

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  Ive had other trucks, but - 2007 Honda Ridgeline
  By gottatruck - March 22 - 8:30 pm

  I have had Toyota, Ford, and Chevy trucks. Not since the Toyota have I enjoyed the build quality (meaning fit and finish, you know...stuff you just "feel") of the Honda. The design has taken some getting used to, but it does everything I need very well. Now, if you NEED a "big man" truck for major hauling and a huge bed for cargo, this obviously isnt your truck. I almost bought the new F150 Supercrew (my last truck) this time, but the quality, safety features, gas mileage, and innovative features sold me in about 2 minutes. I am averaging 17-18 mpg highway with AC on full time, and I am heavy on the gas pedal. My friends Ridgeline gets about 22 mpg hwy w/no AC running.