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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  Not a bad SUV at all! - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By gurug - February 5 - 10:43 pm

  I am not a big fan of SUVs. I test drove this after reading the rave reviews and bought it after extensive research and test driving of cars. The 4 cyl is extremely refined and has adequate power and a decent fuel economy for an SUV. The CRV is extremely athletic and very car like in its handling (felt sportier than the 07 Camry, RAV4 but not as much fun as CX-7). There is some wind noise at highway speeds but it is not very significant. Extremely well finished interior (Camry had uneven gaps in the plastic) and I love the display. Definitely sexier than the boxy 06 CRV. Wanted the Honda reliability and this car has a decent gas mileage. Overall, a great value. Will get Z4/G37 in a few years.

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  2006 Odyssey Touring is Awesome - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By venkat - February 5 - 7:46 pm

  Well after lot of deliberation beween Toyota Sienna XLE Ltd vs Honda Odyssey Touring, both are excellent minivans. We finally bought the Odyssey, the ride was nimble and handling was very good. It does not feel like a minivan or big vehicle. The interior is very meticulously designed. The seats are more comfortable than the Sienna

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  Life in an Accord - 2002 Honda Accord
  By Steven English - February 5 - 3:27 pm

  Verify basic maintenance has been maintained and this car will last! The only issue Ive ever had is having the transmission replaced at 20k miles. I have owned four Accords. This is now a hand me down for my son as I have a newer model. Drive it, maintain it and it will last forever!

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  View from 10,000 miles - 2007 Honda Civic
  By Saki - February 5 - 5:43 am

  My last car was a Hyundai Accent, so my Civic was quite a step up. I love my car. That said, there have been a few problems. The mileage was initially appalling. Used to getting 42mpg from a car only supposed to get 37, I thought the Civic would at least match it. After starting at 29, it was a slow climb to the lower thirties for 50/50 highway/city driving. Im currently faring much better - sometimes 40 mpg highway. Mixed driving around 35-37, suburban/highway. Some trouble starting occasionally last winter. Dealer said it was normal for a Civic. The 100,000 mile Hyundai did better, so I found that a bit scary - or flat untrue.

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  fun car to drive - 2005 Honda S2000
  By heat2575 - February 5 - 4:16 am

  great looking car with outstanding performance: nimble, quick, responsive. cant really complain about its handling. you will be amazed how fast this car can go with just a 2.2 liter engine. however, it does require revving up the engine to 5600 rpm or else it feels much like a 2.2 accord. 161 lb/ft of torque just doesnt do the job. 20% more torque will be the perfect combinations for its 240 hp. stereo system has to be upgraded. rims are nicer with 17" on 04s and 05s but honda should replace them with more racey looking rims, the design on those stock rims looks kinda sissy. i know i am being very picky here but thats what review is all about, right?

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  fun in the summertime - 1993 Honda Prelude
  By hunypi - February 5 - 2:00 am

  fun little sports car.miss it so much.would buy again ..

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  97 Odyssey - 1997 Honda Odyssey
  By Family Man - February 5 - 2:00 am

  Overall a great minivan! Highly recommend as a super family vehicle with many flexible uses. Look long and hard a better vehicle would be tough to find for function and value.

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  97 Odyssey - 1997 Honda Odyssey
  By Family man - February 5 - 2:00 am

  Overall a great minivan! Highly recommend as a super family vehicle with many flexible uses. Look long and hard a better vehicle would be tough to find for function and value.

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  Reliable even if it is a little dull... - 1990 Honda Accord
  By wester - February 5 - 2:00 am

  These cars tend to have a rust problem at the front of the rear wheel wells. Power could be better, but it runs every day.

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  Love my Y2k, S2k - 2000 Honda S2000
  By s2000black - February 5 - 2:00 am

  Ive had my S2000 since Oct. 1999. Its the best car buying decission I have ever made. It is the most fun to drive vehicle for the money and has been one of the most reliable vehicles listed in Consumer Reports Magazine. Although it is very reasonably price for its class, the limited production by Honda keeps it somewhat exclusive. After over 3 yrs, its still an attention grabber and still feels just as tight as new. This is a street legal race car. If you want a luxury soft top, get the Thunderbird or Merc SLK. If you love to drive (turn corners & stuff), this is your car.