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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  What a Difference - 2008 Honda Accord
  By MAV - February 16 - 8:26 am

  This car exceeded our expectations. Who would have thought it could be this sporty? Neighbors envy it, our friends thought it was awesome. Lots of looks and comments from people. Our teen wants one.

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  Could be a "10" - 2001 Honda Insight
  By Hans Blixxxx - February 16 - 2:00 am

  This car is as promised with no major sacrifices.

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  Ill buy another Civic!! - 1993 Honda Civic
  By LisaH - February 16 - 2:00 am

  I have had this car since day one and have loved every mile. I have almost 200,000 miles on it. It is a little cramped fitting more than just me and my dog in, but all in all it has paid me back for every penny I put into buying and even refinancing it. Took it on a x-country trip and put 10,000 miles on it in a little over a month and it was the most comfortable drive I could have asked for for under $10,000. GREAT first car. I am hoping to replace it with a 4-door Civic this spring.

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  The most perfect vehicle - 1995 Honda Accord
  By AlisonMoser - February 16 - 2:00 am

  This is the best vehicle I have ever owned (and that includes one other Honda Accord and three Toyota Corollas). The features are spectacular. The handling is terrific. It has been very dependable. I have only had to do routine maintenance. I just love the car. I see no reason to buy anything else!

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  1995 Honda Accord LX history - 1995 Honda Accord
  By ROF - February 16 - 2:00 am

  72000 miles--4 cyl,20-24 mpg city up to 36 mpg on long trip,timing belt replqced at 60,000 miles car looks and drives like new! Wife wants auto shift ! Experience with car overal? EXCELLENT

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  PA 2004 Accord LX Auto - 2004 Honda Accord
  By firstcor413 - February 15 - 9:33 pm

  The car is very smooth on the road and a joy to drive. The interior noise levels are quiet and the instrumentation is easy to reach and understandable.

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  Great so far, time will tell.... - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By psigs - February 15 - 6:10 pm

  Got our new EX in Dec. Shopped around to find the colors we wanted. Edmunds says that others are paying MSRP but dealers around Dallas are advertising about 5% over invoice, which is what we paid. Sure is nice compared to our 97 GMC Safari that we traded in. First couple tanks of gas netted about 15 mpg for about 2/3 city and 1/3 highway. Hope that improves as the motor breaks in. Dont let the dealers get you to pay for that "paint sealant and scotch-guard" baloney.

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  Good Car, Some quirks - 2009 Honda Civic
  By CivicsOKwithMe - February 15 - 1:20 pm

  Ive had my Civic for about 2 months now and I really enjoy it. I did a lot of research prior to purchasing this vehicle and it has lived up to almost everything I heard/read. I love both the interior and exterior styling -- the two tier dash is my favorite. The quality of the interior materials is far beyond that of some of its competitors, namely the Toyota Corolla. I read some other reviews that complained about the lack of a remote trunk release, 60/40 rear split seats, and outside temperature gauge: All of these features are available on the EX trim. My only complaint is the gas mileage...I average about 27 mpg. Based on my research, I was expecting better fuel economy.

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  Ugly Duckling - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By Pine - February 15 - 1:00 pm

  This is not a pretty automobile, at least on the outside. That being said, it is very comfortable, has plenty of smooth power, handles well, and can still tow a meduim sized boat/trailer. Best of all it is built solid. The sound of the doors closing is better than a Mercedes. Theres plenty of room on the inside and lots of practical items, e.g. cup holders, even for the third row seat, rear air conditioning, etc. Fuel mileage is typical in the city (18mpg) but the economy drive will get you to 24 mpg on a a straight an level interstate. Not pretty, but a real comfortable, durable and functional SUV. I recommend it highly.

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  Still happy six months later - 2016 Honda HR-V
  By hugh easterwood - February 15 - 6:45 am

  I have owned it for six months now and am still satisfied. Gas mileage is still great, better than advertised. Im getting about 32 MPG in town and 38-42 MPG on road trips. I still wish there was an engine temp gauge. I wish there was a mute button on the steering wheel. I wish there were more storage areas. I still wish that my Honda dealer would have been willing to negotiate on the price (they wouldnt), but I still think its a good buy. But, overall, I dont have any big complaints. The good far outweighs the bad.