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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  Great car - 2010 Honda Civic
  By HC - October 3 - 9:36 am

  Reliable, safe, effiecint and fun to drive. And sporty looks. Great little car.

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  Lovin Every Second Of It! - 2008 Honda Civic
  By Alex The Man - October 2 - 6:56 pm

  Well what can I say its a Honda folks its really fun to drive. I read all the reviews about this car on this website and to all the nay-sayers its a very awesome car. Fast pick up great gas mileage you get the sporty looking car wit the economy price tag....just buy it dont think about it just buy it!!!

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  CR-V EX-L = <3 - 2017 Honda CR V
  By Julie J. - October 2 - 11:34 am

  Was in the market for a new smaller SUV & being a newly divorced female after 31 years, wanted something extremely reliable. Did my research online first & having had a couple of Honda Accords in the past, I was familiar with their reliability. Ive had my new 2017 CR-V EX-L for a month now & even drove it on a trip to Gulf Shores, Alabama & could not be more pleased with it. It ticks all the boxes: reliable, smooth ride, comfortable, plenty of cargo space. All the bells & whistles being carefully thought out, so the driver can pay attention to driving and enjoy the ride! Got at least 33 mpg on trip. Had read an unfavorable review regarding seats being uncomfortable, but me and my passengers disagree. All seats are very comfortable!

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  Truck of the Year - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By John - October 2 - 10:36 am

  This is the best truck on the road. It drives like a car sometimes better than a car. ONE COMPLAINT it needs battery run down protection or something along those lines. With some of the switches for interior light and cargo light on a toggle like switch it can be accidentally hit when exiting the car. Which I did only to get into the vehicle the next day to a run down battery. I would buy again and I am a converted Honda fan.

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  Lots of options for the value! - 2016 Honda Pilot
  By Paul Kif - October 2 - 6:14 am

  Really like this 2016 Honda Pilot Elite AWD. Drives really smooth and quiet. Little bumps on the road almost fully observed. Car has more options than my wifes Acura MDX 2014 that cost 3k more. Some people may not like some new options like no transmission lever to change from Parking to Drive or Neutral or rear. I love it, it is very futuristic. Card drives without any issues, sound system is great. I had car for over 30 days and I like everything about it. It looks very manly in Black on Black color. Car is very fast and does not feel big.

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  The Best Car for Teenagers-Safest - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By Regina Phalange - October 2 - 2:00 am

  The most affordable car for teenagers to drive. It is the safest because of its size between cars and suvs and it has an amazing crash test rating for a car of its type. It is ideal if you have a teenager or a new driver.

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  Good Suv - 2005 Honda Element
  By John - October 1 - 6:43 pm

  Overall very good SUV, sold an expedition and have been very happy with the honda. Great interior space and easy to keep clean.

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  Good not great - 2016 Honda HR-V
  By dick williams - October 1 - 10:48 am

  Car is really nice. Material is a little below the quality that I expect from Honda. This is my third new Honda. I am 6-1 and my head is very close to the headliner even with the seat low. The Lx does not have this issue because there is no moonroof. A few small rattles and squeaks from a new car. Stereo has really hollow sound. Center console could have more storage and the "cubby" under the console is pretty useless. This is my wifes car and she loves it. I tolerate it and would rather drive my 07 Prius.

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  Great SUV - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Frank - October 1 - 8:43 am

  I had a CR-V for the past 5 years and loved it. When it was time for a new SUV I was ready for another CR-V but test drove the pilot and bought it the same day. I have had it for 5 weeks and no problems. I can tow my 2 kayak traler with no problems. I have also taken it on the beach and it handles well. My only complaint are the tires. They could have been more agressive.

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  Look no further.... - 1998 Honda Prelude
  By RudeLude - October 1 - 2:00 am

  Ive owned my 98 for a year and a half now. Ive put major miles on it and STILL not a darn thing wrong with it. Its too good of a car. The low rpm power is minimal, but after 3grand (especially after 5 grand...LOOK OUT!!!) The H22A those fine engineers over at Honda put into this classy lil chassis is top notch! It is a shame that Honda was stupid and discontinued the Lude. Oh yeah....did i mention the HANDLING??? One word-MINT!