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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  Pleased - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Alphonso - September 13 - 11:10 am

  I purchased this car in December of 2008 after looking at several other makes of car. After driving it for six months in the city and on the highway I have no regrets.

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  great car - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By cindy2 - September 13 - 10:00 am

  Being retired we travel alot. The Honda Pilot was a great fit for our needs. Good ride, reliable, and plenty of room. We take kayaks, bicycles, and camping gear. The third seat is great for grandkids and a third couple for short trips. We love our Honda Pilot BUT wish the gas milage was better.

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  Beware before buying - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By HappyFrog - September 13 - 10:00 am

  I owned a prior CRV and I was disappointed to see that this CRV was lower then my 1998 one was. I have knocked off the CA fuel can for SMOG emissions 3 times now. I have also hit the fuel tank on the CRV with rocks and scraped it going over the same kind of terrian that I took my 1998 CRV. Honda informed me that this CRV was not to be driven on dirt roads or sand, yet they have ads showing this. Even recently I have seen a Honda CRV being driven on the beach (this is not reality). Dont plan on buying this car if you live on a dirt road, it is about as low as a regular car. On the Highway and streets it performs well.

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  my new honda crv - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By dean scanlon - September 13 - 10:00 am

  just love it. plenty of pep and still gets 23 to 25 mpg. depending on stop lite derby mostly. dean

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  my new si - 2004 Honda Civic
  By piranhafreak - September 13 - 10:00 am

  Great car i love it very fun to drive. The radio is not to hot.takes turns like no other pretty quick but could be faster. the most comfertable car to sit in. the drive can be a bit bumpy but if your buying this car your not buying it to be a luxruy car. its deffinitly a nice little sports car

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  1 year later... - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Conner* - September 13 - 10:00 am

  Its been a year since Ive posted a review on my Accord, and well, I am still very satisfied. Being a Sophmore in high school with wants to have the fastest car a 4 cyl. just doesnt fill my appetite, but since I am buying it from my parents for a GREAT price, with only 25,000 miles, I am ecstatic to get this car. I have had a great time driving this car. I have some minor issues with it but the dealer is great and I love the fit and finish of the car.

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  New 2016 Honda Pilot - 2016 Honda Pilot
  By R Price - September 13 - 8:00 am

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  what,s not to like? - 2014 Honda CR-V
  By kimball wyman - September 13 - 6:07 am

  A digital speed display with large font would be nice.

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  what,s not to like? - 2014 Honda CR-V
  By kimball wyman - September 13 - 6:07 am

  A digital speed display with large font would be nice.

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  what,s not to like? - 2014 Honda CR-V
  By kimball wyman - September 13 - 6:07 am

  A digital speed display with large font would be nice.