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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  Can not find a better SUV -This is my third CR-V - 2016 Honda HR-V
  By Glen Coleman - October 19 - 11:10 pm

  Get a "Price Promise" using Edmunds online to find dealers in your area that will sell at the True Market price. I contacted Fowler Honda in Oklahoma City and I was able to get a CR-V for over $2,000 under the MSRP and at 0.9% financing for 60%. Honda CR-V is the best value in my opinion. The quality of the interior is just superior to other SUVs in the same price range. Mileage is very good, better than most SUVs and it looks very stylish, especially the "cooper sunset" a beautiful new color. I love the CR-V EX has a passenger side camera so you can see your blind spot when turning right or just in close city driving. Also, I love the key-less entry, so that you can have the key in your pocket (or purse ladies) and walk up to the car and grab any handle and the door opens ( big plus when you are carrying a package or it is raining. The 7 inch LCD monitor is bright and easy to see. It is so easy to backup with the larger 7 inch view and the monitor displays yellow curved lines so you and see where you are backing up and the lines change as you turn the steering wheel so you can easily back up between two cars everytime.

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  Great Choice - 2005 Honda Accord
  By autonutt - October 19 - 9:16 pm

  We like the secure handling, comfortable highway ride and reserve power when needed. With full load of luggage and passengers, the car handles very well and provides excellant gas mileage. A/C, sound and convenience features are fine. Sloping hood seems to invite stone chips and one minor rattle in the passenger door are only problems so far.

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  Car is fine - 2015 Honda Civic
  By Matt Pinkerton - October 19 - 12:58 pm

  Car is fine so far

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  Great car - 2010 Honda Insight
  By Andrews - October 19 - 8:30 am

  We previously had a 2003 VW Passat 1.8T, which was fun to drive but in the shop more than on the road. This car obviously isnt as sporty, but is great for its target audience. Its much more roomy than it appears, and performs its function with aplomb. Were getting about 42 mpg normally, although my wife got ~50 mpg on the highway somehow. As long as you acknowledge that this isnt a sports car, the performance is great. You do have to pretty much floor it to get on the interstate, but thats the only time I notice any lack of power. The cars mpg game is pretty addictive, and really helps make it fun.

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  2008 Accord EXL Coupe - Awesome - 2008 Honda Accord
  By KS - October 18 - 7:50 pm

  I previously owned an 05 Accord coupe and was intrigued with the new design. I love this car more!! It is so fun to drive and I enjoy the new features they have added. I cant wait to get on the road!! Good job again Honda!!! Plus my 05 held its value and sold at a really good price - they hold their value!

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  Excellent Car For Your Money - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By AK - October 18 - 7:23 pm

  I absolutely LOVE this car! Roomy for me (I am 61") and my 3 kids, very fuel efficient, excellent all- wheel drive (its fully automatic, no buttons to push - the car kicks in the AWD system as soon as the wheels start slipping). Inside design couldnt be better, very intuitive. The road noise is more than I used to driving domestics, but its the only "negative" comment I can make about this vehicle. Very impressive! Highly recommend to anyone who wants an AWD with good fuel economy and outstanding reliability.

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  Im disappointed with the CRVs comfort - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By noki - October 18 - 5:46 am

  I guess it all depends on what you want in a car. Ive always liked the Honda cars Ive had in the past, but Im thinking of trading in my 05 CRV soon. I absolutely HATE the drivers seat, the most uncomfortable of any car Ive ever had by far, Im not sure why but it gave me a headache/ neckache until I got used to it after a couple months. The interior does not seem "designed" so much as improvised to keep costs down. Do NOT get the MANUAL trans model, very poorly designed inside. The inside has many bizarre trays and odd holes that are mostly to completely useless except for the CD case compartment. The stereo is HORRIBLE for a $20k+ car & hard to upgrade! No fun to drive for me... IMO

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  First time CR-V owner - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By greg t - October 18 - 5:10 am

  Having a great time with this vehicle. It is such a pleasure to drive and the ride and handling are excellent. Not to mention all you get for the price.

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  Best value for the price. - 2006 Honda Accord
  By jimh70458 - October 18 - 3:33 am

  I looked at the Sonata, Camry (07), Passat, and Mazda 6 before deciding on the Accord LX SE. Although some had more equipment for the money, they all lacked in either quality, fit, finish, ride, performance, or road noise. In fact, I was really surprised when Hondas 4cyl out performed most of the of the competitors 6cyl models. This given, that fuel economy is pretty close to EPA estimates. With 80% of my miles being in town, I am getting right at 26 MPG. My only problem so far is getting used to driving a manual again. The engine is so quiet that I sometimes forget to shift. Although this is my first experience with Honda they have certainly earned my respect and future business.

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  Love After All These Years - 1998 Honda Prelude
  By chefjefe - October 18 - 2:00 am

  My Lude has been with me for 4 years now. 70K miles later, I still get giddy every time the tach winds past 5,200 rpm. I have added a AEM intake, stainless header, and SuperSprint Exhaust, which has added to the fun both power and sound-wise. The acceleration and handling are still there, and the car is as stylish and comfortable as ever. A true winner!