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 happy with new CRV - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By CG - September 3 - 5:13 am

  As an expectant mother I wanted a mini SUV and wanted the "reliability" of the Japanese cars. I went with the top of the line SE edition. Within 3 months of buying the car, a strange clicking sound began from the steerting wheel area. It became unbearable and so I took it to the dealer. They needed an entire day to take the entire steering wheel apart. I had meetings in the afternoon and since Honda has no loaner program even for situations like this where a new car is performing so poorly, I was unable to leave it. I planned on taking it back, but the noise has become inconsistent and they wont be able to work on it if they cant duplicate it. I am very unhappy with the CRV and Honda.

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  A Best Buy!! - 1997 Honda Passport
  By Pendora - September 3 - 2:00 am

  This is the fist car that I havent had one problem with. It truely is a great buy. I would recommend them to anyone!

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  49 - 1999 Honda Passport
  By Joseph F. Bland - September 3 - 2:00 am

  WIND NOISE HORN SOUND, TAIL GATE RATTLE, RIDES VERY HARD. FEELS LIKES LOOSE CONTROL OVER RR TRACKS. DRINK HOLDER IN REAR WILL NOT HOLD DRINKS.

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  always with problems - 1999 Honda Odyssey
  By Tina68 - September 3 - 2:00 am

  I hate this van. I got countless problem with this van. I bought this van since hondas big name. But maybe I am not a lucky lady.

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  Tom on the CRV - 1998 Honda CR-V
  By Tom from Kirkland - September 3 - 2:00 am

  The CRV was our first SUV and Honda experience. As far as this class goes, the CRV is exemplary in that it combines much of the best of both world: car-like manners and comfort with enough off-road capabilities for most camping and hiking trips. (Note that it emphatically will not do the Paris to Dakkar rally...) Reliability and build quality are wonderful. With 60k miles, the car has required two non-routine maintainence repairs: a loose gasket on the rear license plate holder and a rear diff oil change. The car still has the original brakes and needed only one set of tires. Not a rattle or squeak to be heard.

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  Good choice - 2000 Honda CR-V
  By walsh03 - September 3 - 2:00 am

  Excellent car. Very versatile. Excellent room inside for a small suv. Handled well.Two minor compaints, no power in regards to the engine and the exterior design was a little boxy. Overall I was very pleased with this car.

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  Reliable 4 wd commuter with fun to boot! - 2001 Honda CR-V
  By Brian_B - September 3 - 2:00 am

  I bought my 2001 LX in May, 2001 and its ran great as of this writing (August 2002). My purchase criteria were: 4 ddors, 4wd, PS, PB, AC, CD player, Good MPG (>25 hwy), good looks, Comfort, Safety, and Strong V6. I got all of these but two: Comfort and a strong V6. I decided to go ahead and buy after driving the 4 cyl. Its not as strong as a V6, but it moves the vehicle just fine and gets good MPG. The seats arent too comfortable though. And lack of front passenger armrest is a mystery? Its needed!

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  First time Honda - 2008 Honda Accord
  By omela1 - September 2 - 11:50 pm

  I have been a Toyota lover for more than 10 years but did not like the new design. I was ready to purchase the BMW 328 but opted for the Honda Accord. The 2008 Honda is awesome. Luxury design with economy pricing. Handling is great and fun to drive.

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  Excellent Snow Handling - 2009 Honda Fit
  By Alan - September 2 - 2:03 am

  I have the Fit Sport with navi in manual transmission - it has VSA and ABS. It has excellent handling in the snow. 2 days ago we had snow here in New York, and in our area we had about 6 inches. I decided to try out the ABS system and the VSA system of the car. So I drove on streets that were not yet plowed, particularly on those with some elevation, so the car had to climb. Having manual transmission, I was able to drive slow, (the proper way of driving in snow). I was in full control all the time. Not once did the wheels spin or slide - because the VSA corrected it immediately. I was passing SUVs and minivans in the Palisades Parkway who could not make in elevated inclines.

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  sara - 2005 Honda Element
  By Letisha - September 1 - 6:33 pm

  This is a great mini truck. It handles well in the snow but not in Long Island sand. I was told it could be taken on the sand and it almost got taken away with the current. It has alot of fun things in it and that you can buy. Its like a little camper. I think this is a great car for people who like to go on road trips or just like to chill out in there car. I would not recommend this car for a family ;it is more of a singles car. Love it!!