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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  Car for the Mature - 2005 Honda Civic
  By Ji Sim - August 28 - 11:56 am

  Im 22 years old, I feel that cars these days rely on looks and dynamics. The Honda Civc 2005 LX, 4-door sedan is something where reliabilty is more focused than style of looks. This car is general purpose for familes, single, and pretty much any reason. My CO even has this car. The smooth riding is unlike anything for its price. If you want to spend more money I would reccomend the Accord 04+. Yet compared to other cars for the price of this car, bar none.

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  honda prelude - 1996 Honda Prelude
  By Mr. Wonka - August 28 - 2:00 am

  This is a beautiful car. tilt wheel, cruise control power windows, power locks, power sunroof, CD stereo, DOCH engine, 5-speed

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  Insight 2002 - 2002 Honda Insight
  By henry8744 - August 28 - 2:00 am

  With over 50000 miles I am averaging 62 mpg. I really enjoy this car. It is fun to drive and comfortable.

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  Hated CRV - 2000 Honda CR-V
  By jls1337 - August 28 - 2:00 am

  I hated this car. I was uncomfortable driving it - both the seat and the seat back were hard. The armrest was in an awkward position and was uncomfortable. The ride was awful - not enough power. Going up a slight incline was a struggle. Glad to be out of it and back into an Accord.

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  My Pilot - 2016 Honda Pilot
  By Johnny Escobar - August 27 - 9:58 pm

  Great vehicle, smooth ride, if you dont require a lot of fancy gadgets and are of simple taste this is the vehicle for you! Do your homework, and the price you pay is worth the wait.

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  Great Car! - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Kerri - August 27 - 3:10 pm

  I have owned my car for 2 weeks now, and I absolutely love it! Everyone asks what kind of car it is and tells us how nice it is. It is comfortable, easy to drive, and fast! We bought the EX-L V6 model w/o nav. Great car!

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  I love this car! - 2006 Honda Accord
  By striking_accord - August 27 - 10:56 am

  After getting the Accord, I found myself finding excuses to go out and drive just to be with the car. I love the smooth acceleration of the V6. The exterior styling is sleek, and I highly recommend that you fork over the extra money and get the spoiler package, because it makes the car look so much better. The interior is great, and there are so many things you can play with. Sound system is awesome, music is crisp and clear, XM is a nice little gift, and I think I will subscribe once my trial period is over.

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  Honda refuses to warrant AC condenser - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By homesteader - August 27 - 8:13 am

  The AC condenser developed a pinhole leak with no apparent road damage. Honda refused to cover under warranty. Cost me almost $800 to repair. I have found dozens of odyssey AC condenser problems on the internet. Looks like Honda is trying to deny the problem so they dont have to recall. I never had an AC condenser problem with other cars in 40 years of Florida driving.

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  The Best VAN, BAR NONE - 2002 Honda Odyssey
  By 12345 - August 27 - 5:53 am

  The Bench Mark Of Vans

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  Honda all the way... - 1990 Honda Accord
  By hondanut - August 27 - 2:00 am

  I bought mine used from a Honda mechanic. The previous owner got rid of it b/c it started to burn oil. The problem was the rings, but the mechanics rebuilt the engine at 156k (when i bought it). It now has >313k on it. And yes, I have had to replace a few parts( CV boots, radiator, exhaust pipes, and lastly a transmission- junkyardbuy). in a word- it takes a likin and keeps on tickin.