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 Car........ - 2008 Honda Accord
  By blackmax01 - October 14 - 1:33 pm

  I get a new car about every four years and this is my first Honda. My last three were a Camry a Maxima and a Audi. I waited for 3000 miles to really get a feel for this car before writing this review. With gas getting to 3.50 a gallon I figured I would go for a four banger instead of a six and I am not sorry. This car (big for a 4) has plenty of punch at 190 horses. Getting about 26-27 in mixed driving. The ride is firm but not harsh, It is more comfortable than the Maxima and looks much better than any Camry. Road noise is a little loud, but with a 270 watt stereo who cares! Looks good, rides good, has all the bells and whistles, and Honda dependable, what more can ask for under $25G.

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  Great car, a few quirks - 2008 Honda Fit
  By Jason - October 14 - 10:50 am

  I bought brand new and now have 25k miles (lots of hwy miles the first yr). Overall, been a great little car. Havent had any problems except a nagging dash rattle that comes and goes very fun to drive. Tons of space for all my junk. Ive crammed 3 mountain bikes along with people to ride them in it without much problem. Good stereo. Gas mileage is decent, Im getting ~31 city, but that reflects my driving style. It has some quirks and lacks some features other modern cars have, but hey, its an econobox. I would recommend to anyone who needs an inexpensive ride. Our first Honda, wont be the last.

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  Awesome - 2007 Honda Civic
  By Blake - October 14 - 8:06 am

  I got a 2007 Honda Civic a few months ago, and I really have liked it so far. Its reliable, performs well, fun to drive, and has good fuel economy.

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  Pilot or Accord, Mazda or G6 - 2005 Honda Accord
  By Dan - October 14 - 7:56 am

  After much thought, we decided in favor of the 2005 accord ex with cloth. Although the residual value on the Pilot was better, with gas prices on the rise, we chose another accord. Mazda and Pontiac were considered, just briefly before trading in the 2002 special edition. It was the best decision, we realized significant improvements in the vehicle since 2002. I was impressed with all the upgrades, from the increased horsepower to the solid ride. The interior was well appointed and the cabin space slightly larger. Instrumentation was well organized and easy to use. Only one minor regret,the moonroof didnt work. The dealer was aware of a fuse problem, otherwise, very satisfied.

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  1991 Honda Accord SE - 1991 Honda Accord
  By Les R Howell - October 13 - 12:51 pm

  I bought this car new 1991. My wife and I have put 271050 miles on it. When I bought a new Toyota, Avalon, 2001- I didnt sell this car and let it sit for over two years in my drive. Put the key in two years later and... Voom! Wonderful car. Excellent gas mileage. Very quick and it just sings when you start it. Honda mechanics love to work on it (three new timing belts, new tires, new brakes), no engine problems- none, nota, zilch. Still just as quick as ever. Does not have air bags and my wife refuses to let my daughter drive it without them. Must sell. Every car should want to be like this one. It is possible to love a machine... though I never thought so.

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  The Best Hybrid You Should Buy - 2017 Honda Accord Hybrid
  By Ahmad Malik - October 13 - 11:40 am

  This car is great. You get value for you money. Its a no brainer with the fuel economy. You fill that tank up and see 720 miles range and you are good to go. The ride is comfortable with noise reduction. Honda paid attention and giving a gap of two years was a great idea to work on the car. Eco friendly what could you ask for more ?

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  This is my 6th HONDA! Love Them!! - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By debby - October 13 - 1:06 am

  Love Honda and love this SUV. I was sad when I traded my Accord, but so happy that I did. I do a lot of long distance travel and the ride is as smooth as the Accord and the extra space for transporting items is great.

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  Quite Happy - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Reeb - October 12 - 2:56 pm

  I just bought this car slightly used. I went from a 99 Civic Hatchback and proceeded through a difficult decision process and chose this coupe. Factors and thoughts: I am 33 and live in LA. I think the FIT is the perfect car, but test drove one and considered it strangely a step DOWN from my 99 Civic. Horrible crisis. Also considered: Mazda 3 hatch (family car), Mini Cooper (too hip, limited, expensive and faulty), Scions (too young for me), VW Rabbit (just boring), Prius (boring and expensive). I think that I made the best choice of the available cars. Comments: fun to drive, handling tight, build quality is great, the seats are VERY comfortable, acceleration is astoundingly smooth.

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  "I love my City Boy Truck" - 2017 Honda Ridgeline
  By Alex - October 12 - 2:51 pm

  I bought my Ridgeline about 2 months ago when they first came out and I am In Love!!! This is my first truck and 2nd Honda (06 Honda Accord) and I have found the perfect truck for me. I live in the city and just need a truck on weekends and moving stuff once in a while. This is perfect, the Ridgeline is so quiet and drives like a SUV. I sometimes forget that I am driving a truck. Gas is not an issue, I have to fill it up once a week if that. the technology is great. Apple Carplay, Bluetooth, Navigation, rear view and side view cameras, its all there! the Inside is comfortable, quiet and has tons of storage space. When I am stopped at a stop light people stare, so being one of the first to drive around in one of these is pretty cool too. Highly recommend this truck for people like me that dont need a big Truck for their everyday lives but for the people that drive to the office back and forth Monday through Friday but need that extra truck space every once in a while.

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  Never had a better car! - 2000 Honda Odyssey
  By Tammy - October 12 - 12:03 pm

  The Honda Odyssey SV 2000 has been the most reliable mini van Ive owned. It handles very well, especially on rainy days and has been a great family car around town and on long trips.